On a national scale, we are experiencing one of the toughest moments in history. But, we must also reflect upon the achievements made within the past month.

June is pride month. It’s a month to not be afraid of being yourself. At least, that’s how I see it. Because we celebrate pride in June, I feel more comfortable with wearing LGBTQ+ accessories.

When I was in first grade, there was an annoying kid named Michael. He was a bully with white skin and hazel eyes.

I do high school debate. As a debater, it's a common preconceived notion that I'm generally interested in politics and know a lot about politics.

There I was at recess, foolishly smiling alongside my friends, reciting rhymes that had somehow seeped into our minds…slanting our eyes upwards and downwards while chanting:

“Chinese, Japanese, Dirty Knees, Look at These…”

As the second wave of Black Lives Matter protests sweeps the U.S. in a nationwide uprising, I have been reflecting on the shared history that brings the U.S. to this point, and the history that brought my family and me into this story.