Over the past year, since the start of the COVID-19 virus, there has been a rise in anti-Asian racism and discrimination. These acts of hate can be difficult, yet necessary, topics to approach with your children and other family members.
| | | | | | | How to Talk About Anti-Asian Racism with Your Kids
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| Over the past year, since the start of the COVID-19 virus, there has been a rise in anti-Asian racism and discrimination. These acts of hate can be difficult, yet necessary, topics to approach with your children and other family members.
Having these conversations can be daunting as a parent but ignoring that these events are happening, especially if you or your child is of Asian descent or is acting out against others of Asian descent, is giving the message that these actions are ok. Below, are some tips to guide you in having this conversation and offer some do’s and don’ts when it comes to supporting those in our Asian communities.
1.) Practice what you want to say before you say it.
These conversations can bring up fears, insecurities, and discomfort for us, as the adult. So, it is crucial that you enter these conversations prepared. Have the conversation with another adult first.
2.) Be aware of your own biases.
So much more than what we say is what we do and how that is witnessed by our children. Be the example.
3.) Use picture books.
Books can provide a helpful starting point that children can relate to. Here are some helpful ones to get you started: https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Books-Childrens-Prejudice-Racism/zgbs/books/3135
4.) Ask your child how they are feeling.
It is not enough just to talk to your child. It is important to gauge your child’s feelings.
5.) Teach your child to embrace differences.
How boring would it be if we all looked the same? Had the same background? Spoke the same language? Had the same traditions? Etc. Teach your child to love and embrace what is different about them and to be excited about learning about others.
Read our latest blog post for more on anti-Asian racism: https://cwpsychologicalservices.com/2021/03/31/anti-asian-racism-talk/
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| | How can we support those impacted by racism?
Do be authentic. Genuinely ask what you can do, how you can help them, ask them how they are feeling, how they are coping.
Don’t avoid the topic. Ignoring that racism is happening is being complacent in it. Speak up.
Don’t be defensive. These conversations can often get political or challenge your world views, veering away from being emphatic and compassionate. If that starts to happen be careful to not get defensive and exit the conversation before it goes south.
Do offer support. Consider donating to victim relief funds or bringing a meal to a victim in need.
Do give them space and understand if they don’t want to talk. Many people in these communities may be too angry to talk, they might need the space to be mad and grieve in their own way. Don’t push.
Do teach your children and family how to be a good ally.
Don’t generalize. Don’t assume "all" or "everyone" feels the same.
Do take action. Make changes in your personal life to be more inclusive, maybe that means within your workplace or being aware of your own biases. Every small positive change is worth something.
There is no doubt this is all extremely emotional, personal, and thus challenging to approach but together we can make small changes to be more inclusive and to show others we will not stand for racism of any kind.
If you are struggling emotionally we are here for you. Our counselors work with clients from all walks of life to learn healthy coping, communication skills, and how to find peace.
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