The Yellow Terror in all His Glory (1899) Chinese people were frequently depicted and described in the media as dangerous villains and rapists. It's been a long time since I heard racial slurs like "chink" and the first time seeing expletives and comments online that I won't repeat here. Just in case anyone looks at my face and assumes I'm a "foreigner" or not American, ... Continue Reading
Remembering the Dream – MLK Day
Honoring the man, the courage, and remembering the dream. Here's my community bike ride downtown to MLK National Historic Site in Atlanta. Also attending the Beloved Community Talks. A time for reflection, inspiration, and service. Mentor. Volunteer. Lead. Talk About Race. Share your story. The work isn't done yet! ... Continue Reading
Women Leaders “Steel Magnolias”
Women of all ages: Grow, Run, Mentor! CALL TO ACTION--get involved, run for office, board, whatever level. I have run and served in public office, won 4 out of 5 elections! What about you?! Or nominate, mentor, inspire. Time to roll up the sleeves! Start local. No experience needed obviously. Have heart. Be fair. We need folks to help build positive, healthy communities ... Continue Reading
Black History, Our History: Remembrance, Inspiration and Stories from the South
One Month Isn't Enough Whenever a "month" rolls around to celebrate a "minority group" like "Black History Month", "Women's History Month", "Latino History Month" or "Asian History Month," I feel ambivalent and torn. A little bit like Valentine's Day and Mother's Day. Special and inspiring, yet woefully inadequate and kind of cheap. One day, one month to recognize and ... Continue Reading
Chinese Lunar New Year Traditions: Lucky Dumplings and Longevity Vigil
Chinese Lunar New Year is the most important holiday in China and is celebrated in several other Asian countries like Vietnam. Festive traditions and beliefs include: Lunar New Year's Eve and New Year's Day feature family rituals like a night of unity, reunion, harmony, and paying respects to ancestors. Kind of like Thanksgiving, Christmas and Rockin' Eve all rolled into ... Continue Reading