Not a Crime

An empowering statement against the accusations of “China virus.”

By Angela Lowe

Medium: Digital Media

"For the first time in my life, [‘Yellow’ by Coldplay] described the color in the most beautiful, magical ways I ever heard… it made me rethink my own self image... [It] gave [me] a new sense of pride we never felt before. We could reclaim the color for ourselves and it has stuck with me for the majority of my life." 

–Jon M. Chu, Director of Crazy Rich Asians

I remember hearing “Yellow” play over the finale of Crazy Rich Asians like a victory anthem. I felt pride in my culture and self-image as it paraded across the big screen. I felt liberated in this beautiful expression.

Two years later, I felt the exact opposite as I saw “China virus” slapped across news feeds. Suddenly, the victory turned to ash as my very self was labeled a crime. 

I want this piece to be a statement against those suspicious glances and slanderous words flung my way, and a testament to my culture’s beauty. 

My race is not a crime. 

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Angela Lowe received her BA in art at Westmont College and is now getting her MEd in higher education leadership at the University of Texas at Austin. In her student affairs work, Angela combines her love for creativity and social justice to better serve her community. Angela identifies as fourth-generation Chinese American and loves listening to her grandparents’ stories to learn about her family and culture. Follow her on LinkedIn and Instagram.