Editor's Statement
I have a friend whose favorite word is solidarity, who values the strength in standing together despite our differences. Although I don’t have a favorite word, I’ve always valued empathy.
We recently had a debate over which value was better. While we didn’t reach a consensus, this month’s issue did teach me to appreciate the validity of her argument: solidarity implies supporting another if you do not emphasize or even sympathize with their experiences and opinions.
We surpassed 12,000 views from 3,300 unique viewers in May. As our new “Your Story” section opened up submissions to individuals who do not identify as Asian American, we received stories and voices from across the world.
It is hard to emphasize with the struggles and bravery of others, especially when oceans stand between you. But this is where solidarity comes in: appreciating both the widespread pertinence of mental health (in Asian American communities and otherwise) without sacrificing the integrity of each individual’s experiences is a fine line to walk, but a line that is crucial to understanding the complexities of mental health.
As usual, a huge thank-you goes to our contributors, readers, and staff (especially those who pulled through AP/IB/exam season!). Happy Asian Pacific American Heritage and Mental Health Awareness Months - we hope you enjoy this issue as much as we do.
- Ana Chen, Founder and Editor-in-Chief
We recently had a debate over which value was better. While we didn’t reach a consensus, this month’s issue did teach me to appreciate the validity of her argument: solidarity implies supporting another if you do not emphasize or even sympathize with their experiences and opinions.
We surpassed 12,000 views from 3,300 unique viewers in May. As our new “Your Story” section opened up submissions to individuals who do not identify as Asian American, we received stories and voices from across the world.
It is hard to emphasize with the struggles and bravery of others, especially when oceans stand between you. But this is where solidarity comes in: appreciating both the widespread pertinence of mental health (in Asian American communities and otherwise) without sacrificing the integrity of each individual’s experiences is a fine line to walk, but a line that is crucial to understanding the complexities of mental health.
As usual, a huge thank-you goes to our contributors, readers, and staff (especially those who pulled through AP/IB/exam season!). Happy Asian Pacific American Heritage and Mental Health Awareness Months - we hope you enjoy this issue as much as we do.
- Ana Chen, Founder and Editor-in-Chief