Scholar OiYan Poon discusses her book on race, affirmative action, and family. Topics include navigating challenges in Asian American student affairs, discussing race with children, addressing identity in higher education, mindset shifts, and fostering hope through collective action.
Dr. OiYan Poon's impactful work in education equity and admissions processes focuses on affirmative action policies and Asian American representation.
The speaker's writing journey is intertwined with parenthood, exploring Asian American histories to foster conversations on race and equity.
Deep dives
Navigating the Tumultuous Relationship with Writing and Identity
Throughout life, the speaker shares their journey with writing, highlighting the conflicting feedback received from teachers over the years. The evolution of their identity, especially as a writer and a mother, is deeply explored, intertwined with emotional and reflective experiences. The intersection of personal and professional growth, shaped by challenging life events, has led to a profound reconnection with the core of their identity.
Honoring Histories and Academic Contributions of Dr. Oyan Poon
Dr. Oyan Poon's impactful work in education equity and admissions processes is highlighted, emphasizing her academic prowess and advocacy efforts. As a senior research fellow, she merges organizational theories with race and ethnic studies, delving into critical topics like affirmative action policies and Asian American representation. The discussion underscores her significant contributions to national media outlets and academia, positioning her as a mentor and scholar in the field.
Journey Through Higher Education and Activism as a Student Affairs Professional
Reflecting on a career in higher education and student affairs, the speaker shares their experiences navigating multicultural affairs and activism in the late '90s and early 2000s. As one of the first Asian American student affairs professionals at major universities, they discuss advocating for Asian American students amid campus challenges and racial tensions. The importance of systemic problem-solving is recognized, inspiring a shift towards academic pursuits to influence structural change.
The Transformative Power of Ancestral Wisdom and Writing Process
The speaker's writing journey is deeply intertwined with their role as a parent and scholar, notably triggered by their daughter's inquiries on race and identity. By weaving personal anecdotes with academic research, they embark on a poignant exploration of Asian American histories and racial identities. The book project emerges as a labor of love rooted in ancestral wisdom, aiming to make complex topics accessible while fostering conversations on race, equity, and societal change.
In this episode, we hear from scholar and educator Oiyan Poon. She talks about the inspiration and the journey of writing her book, Asian American is Not a Color: Conversations on Race, Affirmative Action, and Family. This book is part love letter, part history lesson and academic research, and part memoir. Join us in this conversation where we discuss motherhood, solidarity, and hope for a better future.
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