Blog written by Sreya Tahsin, Youth Community Animator – TERT, BCS
As a woman of color and community organizer, I am committed to preserving the cultural heritage passed down from my parents and ancestors, while I also strive to address the challenges faced by women like me, including racism, sexism, Islamophobia, and more.
By initiating dialogues on these issues and celebrating the uniqueness of our diverse cultures, I aim to raise awareness of the barriers women of color face while highlighting the beauty of our diversity through storytelling. My journey serves as a source of relatability and comfort, encouraging collective resilience, self-acceptance, and freedom within our often-policed bodies.
This policing manifests in our everyday movements. For example, during my trip to Quebec a few years ago, I experienced discrimination at Tim Hortons when my order was ignored, and the cashier looked at me with disgust as I asked about the order.
There have been countless subtle and similar stories, which also include the weaponising of my identity as a woman to shame me.
A few months ago, while on the TTC, a distressed man harassed me, shouted derogatory terms like “sl*t” and “you immigrants.”
These racist and sexist actions aim to disempower, degrade, and humiliate us.
Through my stories, I seek to dismantle the shame and fear associated with sharing these experiences. I recognize the complexity and fear involved in confronting perpetrators, especially being a minority. However, storytelling can foster a community and safe space for resilience and honor in sharing our narratives.
Together, we can advocate for change and build a supportive environment.
If you have any feedback about this blog or would like to contact the TERT campaign, please email us at YouthResilient@bangladeshi.ca. Thank you!
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