Amelie Lee Interning through: APIAVote
Amelie Lee is a rising junior at Scripps College and tackling the model minority and perpetual foreigner myth is one of the most important issues to her. “It's only by dismantling harmful stereotypes,” she says, “that the AAPI community can be seen for its diverse identities and needs.”
Post-graduation, Amelie hopes to use her dual degrees in Politics, and Writing & Rhetoric in a political, non-profit, or academic space. She believes powerful writing can help shape discourse about how to best help marginalized communities.
For Amelie, homemade pan-fried pork buns always remind her of how her Grandmother would make them every Sunday.
Fine Tuitupou Interning through: OCA-APA Advocates
Fine Tuitupou is a rising sophomore at El Camino College, and an issue important to her is dismantling the prison industrial complex. She has witnessed how overincareration has marginalized and harmed her community. “Like many BIPOC communities,” she says, “the AAPI community is affected by this issue and getting AAPIs out to vote is important for mobilizing efforts towards policy change.”
Fine’s post-graduation plans include wanting to attend law school and becoming an attorney, and one day a Congresswoman.
For Fine, a glass of Otai, a sweet Tongan drink that has coconut, water, and some type of fruit (typically watermelon or mango), reminds her of the hot summer days from her childhood when she would sip on cold Otai after dance practice or just playing around.
Hannah Oh Interning through: APIAVote
Hannah Oh is currently a rising sophomore at the University of Georgia. The issue that Hannah feels most passionate about is the increased polarization and political partisanship among communities. She believes this has prevented national progress towards protecting our democracy, such as securing the fundamental voting rights of citizens.
After graduating, Hannah hopes to attend law school or graduate school for public policy. One of her career goals is to work at a non-governmental organization that uplifts the voices of marginalized communities and their needs through legislative and legal advocacy.
A food that reminds Hannah of home is her Grandmother’s doenjang-jjigae (Korean fermented soybean soup). Growing up, this was a staple dish her Grandmother made often and it reminds Hannah of her grandmother's constant pouring of love through food.
