There is power in seeing a face that looks like yours do something, be someone. There is power in moving from the sidelines to the center.
Interpretation
Seeing representation empowers individuals to take action and be seen.
Jenny Han's quote emphasizes the importance of representation and visibility in fostering self-confidence and empowerment. When individuals see others who look like them succeeding or taking charge, it encourages them to step out of the shadows and assert their own identities and potential. The transition from the sidelines to the center symbolizes taking an active role in one's life and society.
In practice
Using this quote in a speech at a diversity and inclusion conference.
It's important for Asian American kids to see themselves in stories and to feel seen. They need to know that their stories are universal, too, that they, too, can fall in love in a teen movie. They don't have to be the sidekick; they can be the hero.
When all doors are shut and you have nowhere to go, that is when you go within. Every crisis is an opportunity and you are the beginning.
These are hard times. The world hurts. We live in fear and forget to walk with hope. But hope has not forgotten you. So ask it to dinner. It's probably hungry and would appreciate the invitation.
Our dreams are luminous, a cast fire upon the world. Morning arrives and that's it. Sunlight darkens the earth.
The sun is always shining someplace.
There are incalculable resources in the human spirit, once it has been set free.
Tell your story with your whole heart.
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