Op-Eds
Setting the Record Straight: Cultural Appropriation
Let’s be honest: deeming other cultures “exotic” is frankly outdated. But with these mindless performances of gatekeeping, the discouraging sentiment surrounding the integration and possibility of approaching various cultures evokes the imagery of the past, of segregation, of exoticism, and of discrimination.
Let There Be Light: Diwali amid COVID-19
Just as Diwali celebrates finding light among darkness, perhaps the way to survive this uncertain time is to find a spark of hope and optimism in the bleak isolation.
It’s All Rooted In The System: A Commentary On The Body Positivity Movement
When it comes to the body positivity movement, we need to stop comparing skinny shaming to fat shaming. While both are harmful, they never have and never will be on the same level.
Personal & Creative
Internalized Sexism: My Experience Getting Botox for Migraines
I was desperate for some relief, but upset at the prospect of getting Botox. And it wasn’t because I was scared of having 20 needles stuck into my head, face, and neck, although I wasn’t thrilled about that either. My real issue was the stigma I had attached to Botox.
To a Mom
I ask you why you never became a U.S. citizen. “I wouldn’t mind going back home sometime,” you say, vaguely. Within that statement lingers regret, longing, and conviction that the United States isn’t truly your home. It hurts me to understand that.
Honey, I Shrunk My Tits: My Experience with Breast Reduction Surgery
My experience with cosmetic surgery has taught me two big lessons: repairing your body image requires more than changing your appearance, but making the choice to change your body should absolutely not be stigmatized.
Expose
The “Dynamite” Experiment: A Music Industry Case Study
While many artists of color and global artists are recognized by music fans, there is still a long way to go towards institutionally recognizing them in the incredibly diverse world of modern music.
The 22 Convention is Laughable, but it’s Repercussions Aren’t
The 22 Convention forces both men and women to conform to strict gender roles that disregards individual expression and happiness.
When is the Right Time?
The victim was threatened for accusing the successful basketball star during his career; Sonmez was put on leave for bringing up the topic after his death. If now is not the right time to talk about rape, when is it?
Reviews
Four Indigenous TikTokers You Should Know
TikTok now provides a platform for many young indigenous activists who are helping to educate others on their cultures as well as the issues they face. I highlight four North American Indigenous TikTokers who I personally have learned a lot from.
Night Witches and Gangs and Rebels, Oh My
Women of color have been written out of history in favor of white women and more specifically white male inventors and entrepreneurs. What this does is create a serious lack of diversity and representation for women. To highlight some of the brave women from history I would like to bring to light the Russian Night Witches, the Sukeban girl gangs of Japan, and Mapuche warrior Janequeo.