“With APAA’s #MoreThanJustYellow Campaign, we wish to highlight traditionally underrepresented Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the API community. The silenced histories of these groups have lead to injustices such as the exclusion of brown folks, erasure of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, and anti-blackness. Let’s critically examine who in the API community gets to be represented and who is left out. Let’s consider queer, black Asians, South Asians, Southeast Asians, Pacific Islanders, APIs with disabilities and low income APIs. Let’s remember that while Asians might be considered the model minority, there are still large problems in our society. Let’s remember that the API community is more than just yellow. By addressing their stories, we hope to reshape what is considered API at Cornell University.”

So honored to be listed here! There is so much work that needs to be done, though. Between the arrogance of Hollywood erasing us, the cowardice of our communities hiding behind our own prejudices, and the preconceptions of other groups thinking godknowswhat about us, it’s not the most chill time to be Asian American. But I think it’s still pretty neat. There’s a lot we can do, a lot we can learn, a lot we can share. If you are reading this, you most likely know me, but please take a bit of time to maybe read up on some of these other amazing folks. Kit Yan, Marilyn Chin, Julie Sze… Check them out. Support their work. Share.  Much love, Ryka