In Their Own Words: Asian Heritage Month
In recognition of Asian Heritage Month in May, a selection of Gee-Gees athletes and alumni of Asian descent submitted what the month means to them, in their own words.
Natsuki Szczokin, second-year, Women's Basketball
Asian Heritage Month gives me the opportunity to value my culture and appreciate the accomplishments of Asian Canadians. Being an athlete of Asian descent means a lot to me. Growing up, there was a lack of representation of Asian athletes in my hometown, so I am grateful to be able to contribute and be part of the community of Asian athletes in Canada.
Calvin Epistola, alumnus, Men's Basketball
For me, Asian Heritage Month is both a celebration and a reminder of the courage my parents possessed when they immigrated to Canada. The sacrifices they made for my brother and me have shaped the person I am today. Those same sacrifices remind me every day that my purpose should always be more significant than myself.
Being an athlete of Asian descent means the world not only to me, but also to my family. It's a blessing to know that I'm not only representing my family and my community but the Philippines as well. Having experienced the low expectations people can have of Asian athletes solely because of their origins motivates me to inspire younger Filipino basketball players to block the noise and continue striving for greatness.
Patricia "Miami" Mandon, alumna, Women's Rugby
Asian Heritage Month means to me that we are being recognized and appreciated by our community. And as a minority in North America I think it's great that people take time and include us
Being an Asian athlete is exciting because there's not a lot of well-known or famous Asian athletes in the sports community, so playing for a well-known and successful team was a source of pride for me and my family.
Theo Espagnol, third-year, Men's Rugby
Asian Heritage Month is a time where I can reflect on, and appreciate all the qualities that stem from my Asian roots. Chinese culture values respect, resilience, perseverance, and harmony; all principles that continuously allow me to better myself as an athlete and an individual each day. Breaking down the stereotypes that surround us step by step, I can take pride in being an athlete of Chinese descent in a high contact team sport. I hope to inspire other Asian athletes to push their athletic potential, chase their dreams, and to be proud of their heritage.
Quynh-Ni Tran-Au, first-year, Women's Rugby
I grew up in a community which lacked a lot of diversity. I rarely saw faces that looked like mine or knew about my history. I felt disconnected from my Vietnamese heritage. As I have grown up, I began to recognize the power in diverse representation; to see others who can share your stories. It is important that we see ourselves celebrated and reflected in our communities and the media. It reminds us to take pride in our identities and pave the way for those who come after us.
Jackie Wu, third-year, Men's Rugby
Being an athlete of Asian descent means being proud of who you are and where you come from. While also acknowledging the injustice and internalized oppression that Asian communities still hold so that we may learn together how to work towards a better future for us all by leaving a legacy to inspire the younger generations.