What are some challenges that you face as a person of color in America?

When you try to talk about racial issues, a lot of people deny that it exists and majority, which are caucasian, don’t like to talk about it. So talking about the subject is difficult.

When was the most frustrating or upsetting moment that you’ve experienced from racism?

I haven’t experienced racism directly on me, but I have seen on others –especially on social media. All of it is overwhelming so I cannot say which is more devastating or problematic than the other.

Do you think there has been a progress in fixing racism?

There has definitely been progress since slavery was abandoned but systematic racism still exists. People still look at people based on colors and not based on their names or individuality.

Why do you think white supremacy and privilege still exist?

It still exists because we cannot overthrow the system.

What can we do to change that?

I hate to sound pessimistic but racism will always be there, and it’s impossible to get rid of the whole thing.

What is your opinion on “diversifying” (i.e. tokenism, affirmative action, and etc.)?

To be honest, I really hate tokenism because it is saying that there is only particular sense of diversity. There is limited diversity and you can only accept that. But…no one ever voices that problem.

What is the biggest issue that you see among people of color today?

Self-hate. They are too busy trying to assimilate to bigger culture than to better their own individual and groups.

What is your advice to them?

We should all stick together. We are always stereotyping each other and separate. We should appreciate the differences and uniqueness.

If you were to give a speech to the nation tomorrow, what would you address?

I would address “acceptance”– but I have fear in addressing it because no matter how you voice it or say it, not everyone can accept it because everyone is different. Acceptance is partial.

Most importantly, what makes you happy?

Being carefree. Not thinking about the problems of the world. You see problems everyday — especially through social media. I don’t think I have been fully happy for a long time.