Not a Protagonist

 
Theory didn't erase the years of self-scrutiny in a mirror and not seeing anyone at all, not a protagonist or a beauty, only a television sidekick, a speechless creature, who at best was 'exotic,' desirable but simple and foreign. Nancy Jooyoun Kim
 

Representation in the dominant culture is powerful. Dominant narratives can dictate what we are supposed to feel about a fashion trend, how we are supposed to style our homes, and even how we are supposed to view a certain group of people. And for those of us with intersections of identities that are not part of the dominant culture, our perceptions of ourselves can be dictated by the opinions of those who don’t share our identities. When we are not represented in dominant media, or if that representation is one of an ‘exotic beauty’ who has no identity other than supporting the main characters, it can affect how we see ourselves in the mirror. Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and not seen anyone at all? Do you feel like you’ve been told that the person you see in the mirror is never going to be a protagonist, but rather is a foreign simple speechless support to anyone but you? What is it like to see yourself in the mirror and see someone that society says isn’t important? What thoughts and feelings come up for you?

If you would like to explore these ideas further in therapy, please contact us to schedule a free consultation.

Asian AmericanJi Eun KoComment