Cat-Call—the word seems benign, no? However, cat-calls, also known as the harassment of women walking by a man or group of men, is anything but benign.

Indo-Asian foods are diverse with a variety of different ingredients and spices used to create unique tastes in each region.

While sexual harassment is a global issue and must be discussed everywhere, Central Asia is at a whole other level of harassment issues. With recent events and social movements, more women are finding the courage to stand up against abusers, harassers and call them out by saying their experiences out loud.

When I was a child and watched commercials for cosmetic brands such as Maybelline or haircare brands like Pantene, I always saw models on the television screen - although they were definitely beautiful with their gorgeous locks and perfect skin, I always felt “off” about seeing those advertisements.

I was once that impressionable adolescent who seeked ways to adhere to the thinness and euro-centric “ideals” that continue to be heavily projected in mainstream media. I was the tallest kid in class until middle school, which made me stand out like a sore thumb.

Often times, when Asians speak up about racial issues we face, we’re silenced. People say it’s “just a joke” or “not a big deal.” Many are ignorant of the history of oppression we’ve dealt with and are unaware of many current occurrences of racial violence, hate crimes, or severe incidents of racism.