I Remember

By Meg Peck

I remember.

I remember you stretching your eyes while you sang your playful songs.

I remember you eyeing my lunch with curiosity and disgust.

I remember you pointing out my features as abnormalities.

I remember you turning to me, laughing, to call me a “banana.”

I remember you describing me as “too Asian” and “not Asian enough.”

I remember you oversexualizing my body, reminding me that “some guys are just into Asian girls.”

I remember you crossing the street when you saw my masked, almond-eyed face.

I remember you saying I’m “different, but not different enough”

  “oppressed, but not as badly”

      “a minority, but not really.”

I remember it’s not really racism, but maybe just prejudice.

I remember the silence of friends, family, church, and community.

I remember.

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

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Meg Peck is a Korean American writer from Colorado Springs. After reconnecting with her Korean identity during college, Meg has since learned to use her voice to advocate not only for Asian American representation, but, as best she can, for all people. She believes every person is worthy of love and respect, and her faith calls her to fight for justice for all. Listen to her podcast or follow her on Twitter and Instagram @heyguysitsmeg_.