A collection of essays and advice about navigating racism in modern Australia, and creating your own safe space, from writer and activist Alyssa Huynh.
I've played the role of the quiet and embarrassed Asian girl who shyly laughs along more than I should have in my lifetime. Enough is enough.
Alyssa has always found comfort in writing, but she never expected her thoughts on racial discrimination to resonate with so many people. Unfortunately, they were also divisive.
First, she called out the problematic fox eye style of makeup that was ironically trending at the same time as anti-Asian hate in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. She also told a restaurant that naming a burger the 'honey fried cat' was perpetuating a harmful stereotype. Every commentary resulted in racist backlash, but the hate only spurred Alyssa on - here was more proof that the work was necessary.
In Safe Space, Alyssa offers new insight into the complexities of growing up Asian in Australia and shares the experiences that have made her the advocate she is today. She offers advice to those wanting to add their voice to the discourse and fosters the safe space she always wished she had.
Honest and heartfelt, Safe Space is at once unapologetically angry and sincerely hopeful. This is a book for anyone who believes that racism has no place in Australia's future and is ready to take action.
