What is Bicultural Healthy Living?

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Bicultural Healthy Living is the ability of immigrants and refugees to bridge two cultures, the American mainstream culture and their culture of origin, into one that allows them to live healthfully and happily.  By leading a bicultural healthy lifestyle, we hope that Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities can find a path that allow both their Asian/Pacific islander and American culture to co-exist with the ability to use one or both cultural protective factors when needed.  This blog will explore the various ways and strategies to improve the health of AAPIs and the community as a whole by living a bicultural healthy lifestyle.

Mental Well-Being: The Foundation of a Fulfilling Life

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Mental well-being is about more than the absence of mental illness, it’s about quality of life. It includes realizing your strengths, managing daily stress, building meaningful relationships, and contributing to your family and community.

Nearly 80% of people struggle with mental well-being at some point in their lives, whether or not they have a mental health condition. These struggles are common and human.

Common Challenges

Mental well-being is shaped by everyday and systemic factors, including lack of purpose, chronic stress, limited social support, unstable housing or employment, and social exclusion. These challenges often overlap and compound.

Why It Matters

Poor mental well-being is linked to higher rates of injury, chronic disease, reduced productivity, justice system involvement, shorter life expectancy, and lifetime mental illness. Mental well-being affects individuals, families, and communities.

Culture and Community

For communities that have experienced oppression, mental well-being is shaped by historical and ongoing trauma and injustice. Addressing these realities is essential for healing and long-term well-being.

Strengthening Mental Well-Being

Mental well-being can be nurtured at every stage of life. Support it by building caring relationships, managing stress through mindfulness or movement, connecting with culture, community, and nature, caring for your body through sleep, nutrition, and exercise, and getting involved in your community.

Learn more at the Minnesota Department of Health’s Mental Health Promotion page:
https://www.dhs.state.mn.us/main/idcplg?IdcService=GET_DYNAMIC_CONVERSION&RevisionSelectionMethod=LatestReleased&dDocName=ID_058037

Understanding the Risk of Cannabis Use Disorder

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Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is a condition where an individual cannot stop using cannabis, even though it is causing negative health, social, or personal problems. While not everyone who uses cannabis will develop CUD, certain factors can increase the likelihood of its development.

Key Points:

  • Risk Factors: The likelihood of developing cannabis use disorder is higher for people who start using cannabis during their youth or adolescence, and those who use cannabis more frequently.
  • Prevalence: Approximately 3 in 10 individuals who use cannabis may develop cannabis use disorder. That means there’s about a 30% chance of becoming addicted.

Signs of Cannabis Use Disorder:

Recognizing the signs of cannabis use disorder is essential for seeking help and making changes before the condition worsens. Some key signs include:

  • Using more cannabis than intended
  • Inability to quit, even after trying
  • Spending excessive time using cannabis
  • Strong cravings for cannabis
  • Continued use despite problems at home, school, work, or in relationships
  • Giving up important activities in favor of using cannabis
  • Using cannabis in risky situations, like driving
  • Developing tolerance, needing more cannabis to feel the same effects
  • Using cannabis despite physical or psychological problems

Cannabis Use Disorder and THC Concentration:

Some individuals with cannabis use disorder may require higher doses of cannabis or stronger concentrations to experience the desired effects (the “high”). Over recent years, the concentration of THC—the active ingredient in cannabis—has increased, making cannabis use potentially more intense and risky.

  • THC Concentration Trends: From 2008 to 2017, the average delta-9 THC concentration in cannabis increased from 9% to 17%. Some dispensary products now contain THC levels ranging from 22% to 45%.
  • Increased Risk: Higher concentrations of THC can lead to more intense effects, increasing the likelihood of overconsumption and negative side effects. Methods like vaping or dabbing can deliver very high levels of THC, further raising the risk.
  • Potential Mental Health Impact: Research suggests that adolescents and young adults who use high-THC cannabis may be at greater risk for mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and other disorders.

Long-Term Impact:

People with cannabis use disorder may experience additional challenges, including problems with attention, memory, and learning. The more frequently someone uses cannabis, especially during youth, the more likely they are to face lasting cognitive and mental health consequences.

Conclusion:

Understanding cannabis use disorder and the risks associated with higher THC concentrations is crucial for responsible use. If you or someone you know is showing signs of cannabis use disorder, seeking help early can help prevent further complications.

For more information on cannabis-related health effects, visit CDC’s Cannabis and Public Health Page.

Asian Americans Advancing Justice  Affiliation Decries Hateful and Unwarranted Immigrant Visa Pause

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ATLANTA, GEORGIA –  On January 14, the U.S. Department of State announced the indefinite pause on the issuance of immigrant visas for the nationals of 75 countries, including numerous Asian nations. The move is an unprecedented and cruel attack on the immigration pathways established by Congress. 

 Asian Americans Advancing Justice, a national affiliation of four independent civil rights organizations, issues the following statement:  

“Asian Americans Advancing Justice condemns the Trump administration’s decision to pause the issuance of immigrant visas for individuals of 75 countries. This new policy constitutes one of the most restrictive attacks on the immigration system that our nation has seen in decades. It blocks hundreds of thousands of people from immigration pathways established by Congress and harkens back to the racially discriminatory immigration restrictions of the 1920s that effectively barred Asian and Black immigrants. This decision will separate families and block workers who have followed the necessary steps to acquire permanent status in the United States. Family members of U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents living abroad will be prevented from reuniting with their loved ones, violating both the letter and spirit of our immigration laws.  

“The pause disproportionately targets immigrants of color—yet another indication of the xenophobia and racism driving this administration’s policies. Asian Americans will suffer under this pause, with 44% of Asian immigrant visa holders—and over 135,000 individuals—barred.  

“The State Department has justified this action based on supposed concerns about public benefit usage by immigrants. This is a blatant lie. Various rules already restrict the ability of immigrant visa recipients to qualify for public benefits. Moreover, countless studies have shown that immigrants enhance economic growth, and that access to public benefits leads to better long-term outcomes for children, families and society.  

“Policymakers should expand access to immigration and address root causes of poverty and displacement with dignity, not exclusion. We call on the administration to immediately reverse this decision and work with Congress to improve, and not curtail, our immigration system.”

Reference: https://www.advancingjustice-atlanta.org/news/asian-americans-advancing-justice-affiliation-decries-hateful-and-unwarranted-immigrant-visa-pause

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 16, 2026

CONTACT:
James Woo, Director of Communications, media@advancingjustice-atlanta.org

Publishers Samples — The Wednesday Phenomenon: Who is Jenna Ortega

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Every year, Netflix releases hundreds of new content titles. In fact, in the last quarter of 2021, it came up with 129 originals. Obviously, it’s impossible for all of them to hit the mark. But Wednesday has made a huge splash after its November 23, 2022 release.

If you go down the street and ask people about Wednesday, you won’t hear about the day of the week. Millions of people ages 9 to 99 know who Wednesday Addams is and can’t wait to see her in the second season. 

Meanwhile, if you ask them who Jenna Ortega is, they may draw a blank. While virtually everyone knows what she looks like, not too many people know about this talented actress, her biography, her acting experience, and her plans for the future.

Let’s fix the problem and learn everything we can about Ms. Ortega and her overwhelming popularity.

TV remote control in the foreground, Video on demand screen in the blurry background, streaming

Wednesday Is Making and Breaking Records

Directed by Tim Burton, this Addams Family spin-off managed to become the second most-watched English-language series on Netflix. It even beat the 4th season of the all-popular Stranger Things.

After premiering on November 23, 2022, Wednesday immediately began breaking records. It’s impossible to scan your Instagram or TikTok feed without watching someone mimic Wednesday’s unique image.

Even Lady Gaga managed to recreate the crazy dance from the show and get millions of views on TikTok and YouTube.

While Tim Burton is definitely the mastermind behind this record-breaking series, it would never become a phenomenon without Jenna Ortega who masterfully portrays Wednesday Addams.

How Seaweeds Fuel Nutrition, Medicine, and Sustainability

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Seaweeds—brown (Phaeophyceae), red (Rhodophyta), and green (Chlorophyta)—are earning major attention for their health and sustainability benefits. Nutrient-dense and naturally low in fat, they provide vitamins (A, B-complex, C, D, E, K), essential minerals (iodine, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc), fiber, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Just as important, seaweeds are rich in bioactive compounds—fucoidan, laminaran, alginate, phlorotannins, fucoxanthin (brown); carrageenan and agar (red); and ulvan plus antioxidant pigments (green)—that show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticoagulant, and other promising properties in research.

These bioactives already power everyday applications: carrageenan and agar as food and pharma gelling agents; alginates in wound dressings, coatings, and texture systems; phlorotannins and ulvan in cosmetics and skincare for moisturizing, UV protection, and anti-aging; and even emerging roles in antivirals, nutraceuticals, and material science (edible films, bioplastics, biofuels). Seaweeds also support health indirectly through agriculture—used as biofertilizers, they enrich soils and crops without harsh chemicals, strengthening food systems while reducing environmental load.

Looking ahead, integrating seaweed extracts across food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial sectors can accelerate healthier products and cleaner supply chains. Continued research is essential to identify and characterize more bioactive molecules, optimize safe, effective use, and ensure benefits for human and animal health. In short: seaweeds unite high nutritional value with powerful bioactives and sustainable applications—making them a compelling ally for personal well-being and a resilient, future-ready economy.

Reference:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8232781/

Standing Up Against Bullying Starts With Awareness

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Did you know that nearly one in five students experiences bullying each year? Bullying can take many forms—verbal, physical, social, or online—and its impact goes far beyond hurt feelings. Victims may struggle with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, and in severe cases, it can affect academic performance and emotional health. Recognizing the signs early—such as sudden withdrawal, changes in mood, or reluctance to go to school—is the first step in helping those affected. Awareness is the foundation for change.

When we notice someone being bullied, our response matters. Encouraging victims to speak up, seek help from trusted adults, and connect with school counselors or support lines can make a big difference. Even small acts of kindness—listening without judgment, offering to walk with someone between classes, or including them in group activities—can remind victims that they’re not alone. Building a network of empathy and support empowers students to stand stronger together.

Preventing bullying starts with creating environments where respect and compassion thrive. Schools and communities can foster inclusion by promoting kindness campaigns, encouraging bystander intervention, and setting clear anti-bullying policies. Teaching empathy, celebrating diversity, and practicing open communication can help transform school culture into one of safety and acceptance. Together, we can make every classroom and hallway a place where all students feel seen, valued, and protected.

Jarrelle ( 杰遨 – Jieao ) Barton

Filipino American History Month 2025

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Since 1992, the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) has led the celebration of October as Filipino American History Month (FAHM) across the United States. Recognized by Congress in 2009 and first honored at the White House in 2015, FAHM celebrates the deep roots and powerful contributions of Filipino Americans. This year’s theme, “From Quotas to Communities: Filipino American Migration and Movement,” commemorates the 90th anniversary of the 1935 Filipino Repatriation Act and the 60th anniversary of the 1965 Immigration and Naturalization Act—two pivotal moments that shaped the Filipino American journey from exclusion to belonging.

In 1935, the U.S. government passed the Filipino Repatriation Act, a policy designed to reduce the Filipino population by offering one-way passage back to the Philippines under the condition that those who left could never return. Though framed as a benevolent opportunity, it reflected the era’s deep anti-Asian sentiment and exclusionary practices. Only a small fraction of the Filipino population accepted this offer, and the law ultimately failed thanks to community resistance. Thirty years later, the passage of the 1965 Immigration and Naturalization Act transformed the landscape, abolishing discriminatory quotas and opening the doors for thousands of Filipino immigrants—nurses, teachers, engineers, and more—to build lives and multigenerational communities in the U.S.

Today, over 4 million Filipino Americans continue to enrich the nation through social activism, healthcare, education, technology, and the arts. As immigration debates persist, this year’s theme reminds us that migration is not only about crossing borders but also about the ongoing movement toward justice, dignity, and belonging. The Filipino American experience stands as a testament to resilience and solidarity—showing that when marginalized communities unite, they have the power to challenge injustice, reshape policy, and expand opportunity for future generations. As we celebrate FAHM 2025, may we honor the past while continuing the work toward equity, remembrance, and liberation for all.

Reference:https://www.fanhs-national.org/filam/filipino-american-history-month-2025?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExaVNqRWdmMmlyVE9DWmoxYwEeVkbGToIrl_vGQi2a5rQd4gyJsF4RIUao6MzbATdDC7FjcR_0LnqBPwUyWg0_aem_QxHHBBd56fPEOhtn0s0DoA

Traditions Reimagined in Modern Spaces

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Cultural traditions are often seen as fixed in the past, but for bicultural artists, they are living sources of inspiration. Across communities, ancestral practices like calligraphy, weaving, or folk dance are finding new life in contemporary art forms. A brushstroke once reserved for poetry may now appear in street murals, or a textile pattern once worn at ceremonies may inspire modern fashion designs. By reimagining these traditions in fresh ways, artists show that heritage is not static—it evolves with each generation.

When bicultural artists reinterpret traditions, they do more than preserve them—they make them accessible to wider audiences. A performance that blends traditional instruments with modern beats can resonate with young people who might not otherwise connect with cultural history. Similarly, a gallery installation that incorporates ancestral symbols into modern digital media can spark conversations across cultures. These creative reinterpretations allow traditions to thrive outside their original contexts, ensuring that they remain relevant while honoring their roots.

The beauty of reimagining traditions is that it proves culture is both timeless and adaptable. Bicultural artists show us that innovation doesn’t mean abandoning heritage, but expanding it. In modern spaces—whether on stage, in galleries, or online—traditions are not only remembered, but transformed into tools of expression, healing, and connection. By blending the past with the present, these artists ensure that traditions remain powerful, inspiring, and deeply meaningful for generations to come.

Jarrelle (杰遨) Barton

Honoring Wisdom Across Generations

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In BIPOC families, elders hold more than memories—they carry the stories, traditions, and practices that root us in who we are. Learning from them means gaining access to a living archive of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. Whether it’s through oral histories, recipes, music, or rituals, elders pass down traditions that remind us of our collective strength and the journeys of those who came before us.

When we sit with our elders, we aren’t just hearing lessons—we’re experiencing culture firsthand. Simple acts, like learning to prepare a family dish, hearing a lullaby in an ancestral language, or practicing a craft handed down through generations, become moments of connection and continuity. These traditions are often survival stories wrapped in beauty, showing how communities endured and thrived despite hardship. They remind younger generations that culture is not just preserved in museums—it’s alive in daily life.

The beauty of learning traditions from our elders is that it gives us the tools to shape our future with roots firmly planted in the past. For BIPOC families, this knowledge ensures that identity is not lost but carried proudly into new spaces. By listening, learning, and practicing these traditions, we keep our cultures vibrant and evolving, honoring the sacrifices of our elders while building bridges for the generations to come. In this exchange, we discover that tradition is not just about the past—it’s a gift for the future.

Jarrelle (杰遨) Barton

Strings of Identity: The BIPOC Experience Through the Guzheng

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As a Black guzheng artist, I live at the intersection of multiple identities. The guzheng, with its thousands of years of history rooted in Chinese culture, became my voice. Each performance is a reminder that identity is layered: I am both carrying the traditions of an instrument not born of my culture and expanding what it means to represent Black artistry in America. My journey has been about more than music, it’s been about reclaiming space, creating belonging, and showing that culture is not a wall, but a bridge.

The BIPOC experience is defined by resilience and adaptation. For me, learning the guzheng meant stepping into rooms where I was often the only Black person, asked again and again to explain my choice of instrument. At times, the pressure to “justify” my art was heavy, but that very tension also shaped my perspective: identity is not confined by expectation. The guzheng’s voice—at once delicate, powerful, and infinite—mirrors the complexity of BIPOC existence. We carry histories of struggle, yet we transform those stories into art, sound, and healing. My fingers on the strings are not just playing notes, but weaving together threads of ancestry, survival, and hope.

To be BIPOC in the arts is to confront stereotypes while also rewriting narratives. Every performance is my way of saying: we belong everywhere art is made. The guzheng in my hands represents possibility—proof that boundaries can be crossed, cultures can be shared, and voices once silenced can be amplified. As a Black guzheng artist, I don’t just play music; I embody the resilience of my community, the shared dreams of BIPOC artists, and the promise that our voices whether spoken, sung, or strummed across strings, will continue to shape the world.

Jarrelle （杰遨） Barton