Jenn Tran Speaks Out + Next Phase Is DWTS

 

She definitely got he shaft on this one and while I did not follow all of it, I have to say that the finale was crazy that she had to sit there next D...whatever his name is. Good for Tran tasking him on the finale though and sticking up for herself--as a strong Vietnamese American woman--and moving on, and up.

Next for Jenn Tran is going on DWTS, which I will definitely tune in for to see how she does.

P.S. If any young guy out there thinks a woman shouldn't propose to him....I just hope you find your way.

A Quick Letter To John McWhorter On Black Kamala And Joy (aka A Real "Dear John" Letter)

Dear John,

In your article in the NY Times on THE JOY you write that "That’s because a good deal of the joy people keep talking about is a result of one fact: that Harris is Black."

I'm not disagreeing with that in some senses, but you also leave out that she's Asian American as well. 

South Asian.

And there's a LOT OF JOY THERE FOR THAT FACT TOO.

I just find it interesting that in an article that talks about the myopicness of only thinking about race and not as you say thinking about "assessing her as an individual" that you would leave that out.

You may not be mixed, bi-cultural, etc.--but for those of us who are (myself cultural as a Transracial and International adoptee, Vietnamese War Orphan, and Vietnamese American) -- we do have a unique look on the world because we have to traverse between multiple worlds.

I think it says something about us and how we navigate the world and that this one thing alone, does in fact make us unique and can be a SINGULAR SOURCE OF JOY.

That's it.

Hope that guinea pig is eating good.

Il Slanty

I ask ChatGPT If I Should Buy A Tesla If I Don't Agree With Elon

And here is my conversation with ChatGPT:

I dont agree with Elon Musk on DEI, Unions, and Race. Should I buy a Tesla? What are reason I should or should not based on that?

Reasons You Might Avoid Buying a Tesla:

1. Support for the CEO's Views: By purchasing a Tesla, you are indirectly supporting Elon Musk and his leadership. If his views on DEI, unions, and race are strongly opposed to your values, this could be a significant factor in your decision.

2. Company Culture: Some concerns have been raised about Tesla's workplace culture, including allegations of racial discrimination and a lack of union representation. If these issues are important to you, they might influence your decision.

3. Alternative EV Options: There are other electric vehicles (EVs) available from companies with different leadership philosophies or stronger commitments to DEI and union support. Considering these alternatives could align your purchase with your values.

Reasons You Might Still Consider Buying a Tesla:

1. Product Quality and Innovation: Tesla is known for leading in electric vehicle technology, with high-performing cars that have strong ranges, fast charging capabilities, and advanced software. If the quality of the product is a priority, this might outweigh your concerns about leadership.

2. Environmental Impact: Tesla’s mission to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy could align with your environmental values. If reducing your carbon footprint is a key concern, Tesla's focus on electric vehicles and renewable energy might be appealing.

3. Resale Value and Brand Reputation: Teslas tend to have strong resale values and a loyal customer base. This could be a practical consideration if you’re looking at the long-term financial aspects of your purchase.

4. Personal Separation of Product and Leadership: Some people choose to separate the product from its leadership, focusing solely on the utility, quality, and features of the car rather than the CEO’s views. If you can do this, you might still consider buying a Tesla.

Conclusion:

The decision ultimately comes down to how strongly you feel about aligning your purchases with your values versus the practical benefits of the product. If your disagreement with Musk on DEI, unions, and race is a core issue for you, you might want to consider alternative EVs that better align with your principles. If the quality of the product and its benefits outweigh these concerns for you, then purchasing a Tesla might still be a valid option.

Random Thoughts On The Rule Of 3rds In Photography And Art

Had this thing with someone who was older, white, and an adoptive parent, which isn't altogether bad--but I want to tell you, just in case you needed that extra push, that it's okay to push back on some of these ideas because they are Westernized. It doesn't mean that they are bad, but it doesn't mean, just like other things, they are the only thing (and let's not forget about simple center position).

Some text below with a little help from my AI buddy (and edited of course by me).

• Japanese Art & Aesthetics: In traditional Japanese art, concepts like ma (space between objects) and wabi-sabi (appreciation of imperfection and transience) are central. Japanese compositions often emphasize asymmetry and negative space, which can differ significantly from the balance-oriented rule of thirds in Western art.

• Islamic Art: Islamic art places a strong emphasis on intricate geometric patterns, symmetry, and calligraphy, reflecting a different set of style. 

• Indian Art: In traditional forms like the Mughal and Rajput painting, there's often a strong emphasis on narrative and storytelling. The compositions can prioritize hierarchical scaling, where more important figures are depicted larger.

• Chinese Art: Traditional Chinese landscape painting has often utilized vertical composition with depth and atmospheric POV. Elements can be guided by principles of feng shui or Taoist philosophies, different from the rule of thirds.

Alex Karp + Passing + Thoughts On Race

I was reading this article in the NY Times, and while not blended racially in the same way, culturally I am, so I understand there is ambiguity in ones definition of who they are, but I do wonder, if you can pass as White vs Black or Asian or LatinX--does race matter as much to you?

Here's the snippet of the article I think is worth mentioning as I ask this question and taking into consideration Karp is a very powerful billionaire I wonder what effect is has on the world.

From the NY Times article at https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/17/style/alex-karp-palantir.html:

Given Mr. Karp’s blended racial identity, I wondered how he felt about Mr. Trump’s attack on the vice president’s heritage.

“I think people are most fascinated by the fact of this whole Black-Jewish thing,” he said. “I tend to be less fascinated by that.”

He added: “I think that people always expect me somehow to see the world in one way or another, and I don’t really understand what that means. I see the world the way I see it. I think, at the end of the day, if people want to choose what their identity is, then they choose it, and that’s their definition.”

I note that he recently made an elite list of Black billionaires.

He shrugged. “Some Black people think I’m Black, some don’t,” he said. “I view me as me. And I’m very honored to be honored by all groups that will have me.”

He added: “I do not believe racism is the most important issue in this country. I think class is determinate, and I’m mystified by how often we talk about race. I’m not saying it doesn’t exist. I’m not saying people don’t have biases. Of course, we all do, but the primary thing that’s bad for you in this culture is to be born poor of any color.”

Just some random thoughts I was having.

Weekend In Taipei - Official Trailer (2024) Luke Evans, Sung Kang, Gwei Lun-mei

I'm just going to have to wait to see this one to pass judgement.

Crossing fingers.

 

Awkwafina + John Cena = Jackpot!

I have not seen this, so I can't say for sure if it's really gold, but....you it's there for you to watch it and decide for yourself.

Do you think they kiss?

Will the jokes be good?

Again - you will have to watch.

 

Community Time: Noah Lyles Wins Gold!

Love it. Be brash. Be bold. Do your thing young man.

 

NOAH LYLES’ OLYMPIC DREAM COMES TRUE!

100M GOLD MEDALIST. #ParisOlympics pic.twitter.com/qR6bkXLHhE

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) August 4, 2024

WIRED + Wicked + Jon M. Chu + Technology, Hollywood, AI, And That Moment At USC

There is a great article up at WIRED interviewing Jon M. Chu (along with some great photos) talking about his family, growing up in a Chinese restaurant, the realization of being in a bubble concerning being an Asian American man, how technology helped shape him, and his new memoir.

Here's a quick excerpt:

You were inspired by Steve Jobs.

I put the WIRED cover, the one with the crown of thorns around the Apple logo, on my wall in college when Steve Jobs came back, and I said, “Everybody, just watch.”

Jobs had a reputation for being monomaniacal, impatient, and petulant. How do you feel about that leadership style?

Yeah. I’m sure we have very different styles, but that doesn’t take away from what he created. I’ve seen from every introduction—from the iMac to the iPod to the iPhone—how the public didn’t believe in that vision at the time. And then watching him push through. It wasn’t about the showiness of the product or about himself. It was always about the solution. There was a purity to that that I admire. I don’t believe human beings are geniuses. We get into situations when things align, and genius comes out of us.

Read the article in full here: https://www.wired.com/story/jon-chu-director-wicked-crazy-rich-asians-silicon-valley/

Asian American Action Fund PAC Endorses Kamala Harris for President in 2024

July 2024
Washington, D.C. - 

The Asian American Action Fund PAC (AAAFund) is proud to announce its full endorsement of Kamala Harris for President of the United States in the 2024 presidential election. Albert Shen, AAAFund national chair and its Board of Directors, expressed the organization's enthusiastic support for Harris, recognizing her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the diverse communities that make up our nation. "Kamala Harris has consistently demonstrated her dedication to the values we hold dear: equality, opportunity, and justice for all. 

Her track record speaks volumes about her capability to lead our country towards a more inclusive and prosperous future. We are proud to stand with her and are confident in her ability to address the needs and concerns of the AANHPI community and all Americans," said Shen. In his statement, Shen also acknowledged the significant contributions of President Joe Biden: "We deeply appreciate the 50 years of public service by President Biden and his unwavering support for the AANHPI communities during his presidency. 

His leadership has paved the way for a more inclusive America, and we are grateful for his dedication to advancing the rights and opportunities of all citizens." As a prominent figure and candidate for the presidency, Harris' campaign represents a historic moment for the AANHPI community and the nation. AAAFund is committed to mobilizing its members and supporters to ensure a successful campaign for Harris, emphasizing the importance of representation and leadership that reflects the diversity of America. 

This endorsement aligns with the recent support declared by the ASPIRE PAC, further solidifying the unified stance of the AANHPI community in this crucial election. AAAFund looks forward to working closely with Harris’ campaign and other allied organizations to promote a vision of America where every individual, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.

They Have Slants. They Have Vinyl

From their PR

==========

Hi friends, 

We have some vinyl editions of The Band Plays On, our most recent and final record, available on our website for 50% off now. The deal will be available all week so if you've been waiting, this is a great time. You'll love it - it features nearly every former member of the band plus over a dozen Asian American artists that we'd love to introduce to the world.

Thanks for your support!

==========

OMG: Yuto Horigome Defends 2nd Gold In Street, WINS BACK TO BACK GOLDS. THE OLYMPIC GOAT!!!

 

Picture from NBC Olympics (used for criticism, all copyright 2024 NBC)

In what can only be described as AMAZING, because Yuto Horigome almost didn't even make it to the Olympics until the final qualifying event this year, he edged out Jagger Eaton for the gold medal, defending his title from 2021. 

An incredibly close race for spots 1-4, Yuto clinched the title with a nollie 270 noseblunt slide that scored a 97.08. 

In another storyline to the games, Nyjah Huston from the U.S., who did not medal in 2021, redemmed himself to get on the podium this year to take the Bronze medal.

Silver went to Jagger Eaton from the U.S.

Video Of The Event

While NBC was criticized for the opening ceremony video, I think the video of the event was pretty great overall for both video and still as you can see from the above image/screenshot where they positioned Yuto with a great background for his medal picture (and the overall camera work was spot on for the event).

Sonya Massey: This Is Flat Out Murder.

I'm just going to direct you to the NBC News story that shows the video in full with the dialogue from the officers, and I'll just say I'm sick.

This is why in communities of color no one wants to call the police.

Everyone's afraid of the police.

Especially if they're Black.

Are you kidding me? 

The big bad cop who was afraid of words? It wasn't the pot. It was the Jesus talk coming from a Black woman.

Who had dropped the pot of water anyway. 

Something triggered him.

And with power, a gun, and the history of Whiteness on his side.

He shot.

Sure. He's been fired.

But what good does that do now?

Sonya Massey is dead.

Murdered.

She was 36 years-old.

And then there's this:

"Massey’s death carries on a troubling legacy of racial violence in Springfield: Massey’s family said she is a descendant of William Donnegan, a Black man who was lynched by a white mob but survived during the city’s infamous 1908 race riots that took 17 Black lives over a two-day period in mid-August of that year. As a result of the violence and carnage, a group of white and Black Americans banded together to create the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Massey’s family said that the irony of having to reach out to the NAACP for help after her killing is not lost on them."

I ask ChatGPT About Racist Voters And If Our Society Is Racist And Sexist.

PROMPT:

Considering we've only had 1 Black president and have never had a woman president, what would you say that says about people voting for someone of color, and a woman of color, no matter their qualifications and standings, etc.

ANSWER:

The fact that the United States has only had one Black president and has never had a woman president indicates that there are significant challenges for candidates of color and female candidates in achieving the highest political offices. Here are some key points this might reflect:

1. Systemic Bias and Racism: Historical and systemic racism and sexism have created barriers that make it more difficult for people of color and women to ascend to top political positions.

2. Voter Prejudices: Some voters may hold implicit or explicit biases against candidates based on race or gender, which can influence their voting decisions regardless of a candidate’s qualifications or policies.

3. Representation and Visibility: The political landscape has historically been dominated by white men, which means that candidates of color and women have fewer role models and precedents, potentially affecting voter perceptions and the candidates' own aspirations.

4. Media Representation: Media coverage can be biased, often focusing on different aspects of a candidate’s personality, appearance, or background in ways that can disadvantage women and people of color.

5. Political Infrastructure: The political parties and systems in place may have biases or practices that favor traditional (white male) candidates, whether through fundraising, endorsements, or party support.

6. Historical Exclusion: Historical exclusion of women and people of color from voting and holding office means that there has been less time for these groups to build the necessary political capital and networks.

7. Cultural Norms: Societal norms and expectations about leadership often still default to white male stereotypes, which can influence voter comfort and expectations about who should hold power.

8. Policy Misalignment: Sometimes, the policies and platforms of candidates of color and women may not align with the majority views of the electorate, influenced by cultural and societal norms.

9. Intersectionality: Women of color face a unique set of challenges due to the intersection of both gender and racial biases, making their path to high office particularly challenging.

10. Progress and Change: The slow pace of progress in breaking these barriers reflects broader societal issues and indicates that while strides have been made, there is still significant work to be done in achieving true equality in political representation.

PROMPT:

So basically you're saying we're kind of a racist and sexist society?

ANSWER:

Yes, the points discussed indicate that there are elements of racism and sexism within society that impact political representation and voting behavior. While not everyone holds these biases, and significant progress has been made over the years, systemic issues and historical inequalities still play a significant role. These issues manifest in various ways, including:

1. Implicit Bias: Many individuals may hold unconscious biases that affect their decisions and perceptions without overtly realizing it.

2. Systemic Barriers: Institutional practices and policies can perpetuate disadvantages for women and people of color, even if there is no explicit intent to discriminate.

3. Cultural Norms: Societal norms and stereotypes about leadership and competence can influence opinions about who is suitable for political office.

4. Representation: The lack of diverse role models in leadership positions can reinforce the status quo and make it harder for underrepresented groups to break through.

These factors contribute to the challenges that candidates of color and female candidates face, indicating that while the society may not be overtly racist or sexist in a uniform way, these underlying issues still significantly influence political dynamics and representation. Addressing these challenges requires ongoing efforts to promote equity, challenge biases, and create more inclusive systems.

PROMPT:

So on one hand you've said there are significant challenges to candidates of color and who are women but you've also said significatn progress has been made over the years....give me on a scale of 1-10 how racist and sexist you think the U.S. is.

ANSWER:

Quantifying the level of racism and sexism in a society as complex and diverse as the United States is inherently challenging and can be subjective. However, considering historical and contemporary factors, here is a broad assessment:

Racism Scale (1-10)

• 7: While there has been substantial progress, such as the Civil Rights Movement, the election of Barack Obama, and increasing diversity in various sectors, systemic racism still persists. Issues like racial disparities in the criminal justice system, economic inequality, police brutality, and ongoing discrimination indicate that racism remains a significant issue.

Sexism Scale (1-10)

• 6: The U.S. has made notable strides in gender equality, including the women's suffrage movement, advances in women's rights, and more women in leadership roles. However, sexism continues to impact women in various ways, including the gender pay gap, underrepresentation in politics and corporate leadership, and societal expectations and biases.

These assessments reflect a combination of progress and ongoing challenges. While significant efforts have been made to address racism and sexism, systemic and cultural issues still create barriers and inequities for many individuals.

T-Shirt Slogan? White People. Do Your Job This Election. Open The Door Like Joe Did.

#ElectionStickers #Tasteful So I've been thinking about some good slogans, stickers, maybe some t-shirts and I came up with this, which I think is colorful, catches your eye, you have to read it a little closer--I brought the opacity down for some of the sentences. Feel free to print what you will. I'm working on more, some with images that look like bananas...but I'm getting older, I want to be more nuanced. Subtle. I don't want to beat anyone over the head with a hammer. Easy. Non-confrontational.

Version #1

Version #2 - I guess if you want to be a little more "In your face".