An Open Letter to All Asian Women
I would like to express my sincere apologies for the racism and sexism that you face on a daily basis. I am sorry that you have to deal with ignorant questions and stereotypes that suggest that Asian women are a hive mind.
It is frustrating and disheartening to be reduced to a narrow category based on your race and gender, and I want you to know that you deserve to be treated as the complex and multifaceted individuals that you are.
It breaks my heart to live in a world where bigotry and intolerance run rampant, where unspeakable atrocities like rape culture, dowry deaths, female genital mutilation, and child marriage are still prevalent. I can’t imagine the deep-seated anguish and suffering that this type of violence can cause. And when I see how Asian women are disproportionately targeted and marginalized, my heart aches even more.
It’s a cruel reality we must confront, and we must do better to create a world where everyone is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
You are more than the sum of your race and gender. You are complex and unique individuals with a wide range of interests, experiences, and talents. Whether you love math or hate it, want to get married or remain single, or pursue any other path in life, follow what makes you happy and fulfills you.
You do not have to conform to anyone else’s expectations or standards. You deserve to live a life that is true to yourself, and I hope that you never forget that.
I know it’s not easy to constantly confront the hurtful and unjust attitudes that are targeted at you every day. But I want you to know that you are not to blame for the racism and sexism that you face.
You have every right to exist and thrive, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation or justification for who you are. In fact, I urge you to take pride in your identity as an Asian woman, and to seek out the support and camaraderie of others who share your unique experiences and worldview.
Together, we can push back against the harmful stereotypes and biases that try to hold us back, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
It’s deeply distressing to see the prejudice and stigma that Asian women encounter when they enter into relationships with Western men. It’s all too common to hear derogatory and harmful stereotypes that portray us, Asian women, as submissive, passive, and exotic, and which unfairly label them as gold-diggers.
As an Asian woman myself, I want to emphasize that we have the right to autonomy and our romantic lives, and that we deserve to be treated with respect and dignity regardless of who we choose to love. Love is a powerful and beautiful thing, and it should never be subjected to the narrow-mindedness and prejudice of others.
All in all, I want to apologize to Asian women for the injustices and hardships that you have faced and continue to face. I want you to know that you are not alone, and that there are people who recognize and support your struggles. You are valued, respected, and deserving of a life that is fulfilling and meaningful. Do not let anyone convince you otherwise.
Love,
Marie
