“Can we issue a statement for Diverging Magazine?” my friend texted a few days after the tragic event that shook the world. At that time, I had recently taken on the role of editor at Diverging Magazine, a platform for the Progressive Asian American Christian (PAAC) community.
Initially, I found myself puzzled by the unexpected message. Then it clicked. “Oh, you mean regarding the Black Lives Matter movement? I can certainly inquire,” I responded.
“Yes, exactly. In light of current events.”
“Hmm… just remembered I’m the Living Justice editor.”
“Indeed! That’s why I’m reaching out to you.”
I might have actually cringed. My realization was quite embarrassing. After all, the Living Justice section was designed to spotlight the efforts of PAAC members in pursuit of justice — what could be more aligned with justice than Black Lives Matter?
Yet, despite BLM being well within the focus of my column — especially since many Asian Americans, including myself, stand as allies — I blanked during a pivotal moment.
Recognizing Our Influence
You and I possess more influence and authority than we often realize. It might feel awkward to acknowledge, particularly for women. Who wants to come off as arrogant, overly proud of their connections and impact? For women, this acknowledgment can feel particularly self-centered.
But we often forget, or worse — we recognize our power (or our closeness to power) but hesitate to use it due to fear of losing it or indifference.
So here’s a gentle reminder: Embrace your influence. Not just in personal spheres, but also in professional, communal, religious, and civic contexts.
My friend reminded me of my role as Living Justice editor at Diverging Magazine. I also serve as the entertainment editor for Mochi magazine and write freelance for various publications. These aren’t mere titles; they signify real power. The question is, how will I utilize it?
Using My Influence to Address Invisibility
One of the most intentional ways I channel my influence is to combat erasure — the act of rendering certain individuals and groups, especially those with less mainstream narratives, invisible. As a writer and editor, I have platforms that can amplify voices that are often overlooked.
Sometimes, this means crafting articles that reflect my own intersectional identities as an Asian American woman. It involves engaging my fellow editors at Diverging Magazine in discussions about responses to significant social issues like George Floyd’s death and the Black Lives Matter movement.
It means collaborating with a dedicated team to draft letters of solidarity and create initiatives for Asian Pacific Islander Desi Americans (APIDA) looking to take action but unsure where to begin.
It’s also about being part of a collective led by my friend and fellow writer, Mia Chen, to develop a free toolkit for influencers aimed at educating and informing their audiences.
Every choice I make — from selecting which films and artists to highlight as an entertainment editor to being mindful of whom I quote as experts — plays a role in normalizing diverse narratives.
I strive to include voices from various backgrounds, particularly those that don’t fit the “norm,” ensuring that discussions about parenting, healthcare, and other topics reflect the realities of our intersecting identities.
I actively promote and credit ideas from POC and underrepresented creatives, make recommendations for POC writers to my editors, and pay close attention to diverse representation, especially among those who might be overlooked within minority communities.
As a content creator, I address systemic issues within my podcasts and videos, tackling topics like racism and misogyny in pop culture while examining the complexities of fandom dynamics.
A Subtle Approach to Fighting Injustice
I share these examples not to boast or to shame others, but to illustrate that even in seemingly mundane tasks — like discussing skincare tips or the benefits of various oils — I can combat erasure through my choices.
These efforts may not be loud or attention-grabbing. They might seem dull or ordinary. Nevertheless, they occur in the spheres where I hold power and privilege, and I am committed to making the most of that.
I am thankful for the trust my friends place in me to share their stories, and I hope my efforts can better represent those who often go unheard.
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Search Queries:
- How to combat erasure in media
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In summary, using my platform as a writer and editor, I aim to combat erasure by amplifying underrepresented voices and advocating for justice through my work and influence.