Category Archives: Healthy Youth Development

What Is Food Insecurity?

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Food insecurity, a pervasive global issue, affects individuals and families across all economic strata, stemming from insufficient resources or restricted access to safe, nutritious food. Its ramifications extend beyond hunger, manifesting in compromised physical and mental well-being, diminished academic performance in children, and increased prevalence of chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. Often synonymous with “food poverty,” it diverges from food shortages, which denote insufficient food supplies in a given area. Rather, food insecurity arises from economic challenges such as poverty or unemployment, rendering existing food resources inaccessible to certain demographics.

Food insecurity has a deeply rooted history in the United States, stretching back to colonial times when farmers grappled with erratic harvests. The Great Depression of the 1930s amplified this issue as widespread job losses left many without means to feed themselves. President Lyndon Johnson’s declaration of a “war on poverty” in the 1960s highlighted the nation’s growing concern over food insecurity, which has since remained intertwined with poverty. Presently, over 40 million Americans, roughly one in eight households, face food insecurity, impacting diverse demographics such as children, the elderly, low-wage earners, rural residents, and racial minorities. Moreover, women bear a disproportionate burden of this challenge.

Signs of Food Insecurity

Signs of food insecurity encompass skipping meals, reducing portion sizes, facing trade-offs between food and essential expenses like rent, and turning to food assistance programs for support.

Below, Verywell Mind has compiled a list of the most common signs of food insecurity:

  • Shifting meal patterns—skipping meals, eating smaller meals, or relying on less expensive items like macaroni and cheese instead of healthier foods
  • Inability to store food—food may spoil quickly due to lack of refrigeration or other storage solutions.
  • Low energy levels—lack of nutritious foods can lead to fatigue, headaches, and other health issues.
  • Worrying about running out of food—constant concern about having enough food for the family.
  • Physical changes—weight loss or gain due to insufficient access to healthy diets.

Tips for Reducing Food Insecurity

Verywell Mind has also listed suggestions for individuals and communities seeking to alleviate food insecurity:

  • Support food banks and other organizations that provide meals or groceries to those in need.
  • Encourage local businesses to donate unsold items to food banks or other organizations.
  • Advocate for public policies that prioritize access to nutritious foods in areas where food deserts exist.
  • Volunteer at soup kitchens, shelters, or other local organizations providing meals for the hungry in your community.
  • Educate yourself and others about the signs of food insecurity and how to identify it in your own life or that of another person.
  • Start a community garden to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to those in need.
  • Donate money or other items (e.g., canned goods, non-perishable foods) to organizations providing meals for the hungry in your community.
  • Create a support system of family members, friends, neighbors, and co-workers who can help provide resources or meals when needed.
  • Provide emotional support and understanding to those going through food insecurity—listen without judgment or offering unsolicited advice.
  • Encourage public discussion about food insecurity—raise awareness by starting conversations with friends and family about the issue.


Food insecurity poses a significant global challenge, impacting millions and causing profound physical, mental, and social hardships. Engaging in actions like donating, volunteering, advocating for policy reform, and establishing support networks can significantly alleviate this issue for affected individuals and families. If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity, seeking assistance from organizations such as Feeding America can offer valuable support and resources.

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-food-insecurity-7097382

The Art of Antonius-Tin Bui

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Antonius-Tin Bui, a versatile Vietnamese American artist, showcases three distinct bodies of work in the exhibition: “Do not laminate this card,” “Not Sorry for the Trouble,” and two portraits. Each piece delves into the enduring challenges and stereotypes faced by AAPI individuals, while also reflecting Bui’s exploration of unconventional beauty through the medium of paper. “Do not laminate this card” comprises laminated collages juxtaposing images from the Vietnam War era with ancestral burning paper or joss paper. Originating from Bui’s 2017 trip to Vietnam, where they faced criticism from a U.S. government official for laminating their security card, this series is a poignant commentary on identity and heritage. (Voice of OC respects Bui’s choice of preferred pronouns, “they/them.”

Photo: Antonius-Tin Bui

Since completing their degree in 2016, Antonius has been fortunate to receive fellowships from esteemed institutions such as the Vermont Studio Center, Kala Art Institute, Tulsa Artists Fellowship, Halcyon Arts Lab, and Houston Center for Contemporary Craft. These opportunities have allowed them to diversify their artistic practice, extending beyond hand-cut paper techniques. Currently, Antonius explores themes of Vietnamese history and queerness through various mediums including performance, textiles, and photography. Their work has been showcased at a wide array of venues, ranging from institutional to underground, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Smithsonian Arts & Industry Building, Corcoran Gallery of Art, Hillyer Art Space, Lawndale Art Center, Living Arts, 108 Contemporary, Artscape, and the Philbrook Museum.


Antonius’s art intricately weaves together narratives of culture and identity, crafting pieces that transcend time with their enduring beauty. Each work serves as a tribute to cultural heritage, radiating a unique elegance that captivates and inspires viewers. Through their art, Antonius breathes life into stories that resonate deeply, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of human experience.

Heritage Vocabulary

  1. 文化 (wénhuà) – Culture
  2. 身份 (shēnfèn) – Identity
  3. 经典 (jīngdiǎn) – Timeless
  4. 美丽 (měilì) – Beauty
  5. 故事 (gùshì) – Story

Reference: https://voiceofoc.org/2022/12/yellow-submarine-rising-gives-asian-american-artists-a-platform-to-speak-and-shine/.

The Art of Roshan Ganu

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Originally hailing from Goa and now based in Minneapolis, Roshan Ganu is a versatile multimedia artist. Through her practice, she explores the depths of human experience using light, darkness, motion, space, and time. Her fascination lies in the intricate connections between language, visuals, experiences, and various disciplines. Ganu’s creations breathe life into narratives, moments, and emotions, inviting viewers into a realm of vulnerability. Central to her artistic vision is the theme of “isolation,” which serves as a lens through which she examines the human condition.

Observing her art is akin to observing the cosmos, capturing the profoundness of depth, space, texture, color, and time. Ganu’s art is inherently interdisciplinary, seamlessly intertwining cultural influences with her own unique and personal perspectives, enriching her work with layers of depth and meaning. Her art transcends boundaries, offering viewers a glimpse into the interconnectedness of humanity and the universe, evoking introspection and contemplation on the complexities of existence.

Formal language is a means to our consciousness. But consciousness itself knows no formal language. I am interested in a transdisciplinary translation of concepts and the fluidity of our human experience. I speak and understand six languages: Marathi, Konkani, Hindi, English, French, and Portuguese. Each language ignites its own consciousness and in each language I understand myself differently. The immigrant experience complicates this by introducing a foreign context. I am interested in this interflow of meaning in a multilingual and multicultural framework.

Roshan Ganu

In a world defined by diversity and cultural richness, creative expression serves as a vital conduit for celebrating our multifaceted identities and bridging differences. Through the lens of art, encompassing language, heritage, and culture, we find a common ground where individual narratives coalesce into a harmonious tapestry of human experience. The borderless nature of artistic expression transcends geographical confines, fostering connections that traverse continents and cultures. As we embrace the kaleidoscope of perspectives and voices, we cultivate a universal environment of understanding and empathy, paving the way for peace and unity in our global community. In cherishing and preserving our cultural heritage while embracing innovation and diversity, we illuminate the path towards a more inclusive and compassionate world, where art becomes a catalyst for profound transformation and collective harmony.

Reference: https://mnartists.walkerart.org/roshan-ganu-language-and-illusion http://www.roshanganu.com/

Try a Healthy Eating Plan to Reduce Stress

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One factor contributing to weight gain among busy, stressed individuals is their tendency to opt for fast food or dining out more frequently. This inclination is understandable; after a hectic day, there may be little time or energy left to prepare a meal from scratch at home. However, prioritizing healthy eating habits at home can assist in preventing unwanted weight gain during stressful periods, as homemade meals typically offer superior nutritional value compared to fast food options. Additionally, homemade meals often feature smaller portions and lower fat content than restaurant offerings. Moreover, cooking at home can lead to financial savings, indirectly alleviating stress by reducing financial strain. While the idea of cooking a nutritious or unfamiliar dish after a long day may seem daunting, it is more manageable than one might imagine. Here are some convenient and straightforward guidelines to help incorporate healthier meals into your home-cooking routine.

  • Plan ahead
  • Keep it simple
  • Cook ahead
  • Use a crock-pot
  • Try an instant pot

There is a huge wealth of recipes for the Instant Pot, as well as online communities and recipes for those who are learning to use them.Verywell Mind

Getting into the habit of eating healthy and planning meals ahead can greatly reduce stress, and also reduce the strain on your wallet. Diet and mental health are closely related, eating healthy also improves ones mental health and well-being. It’s important to eat fresh veggies, stay hydrated, and lower sugar, salt, and processed foods. Keeping these guidelines can be beneficial in your daily life.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/healthy-eating-plan-to-reduce-stress-3144530

The Versatility of Buddhist Cuisine

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Rooted in compassion for all life, non-violence, and mindfulness, Buddhist cuisine is one of the hallmarks of vegetarian cooking. As Buddhist practice traveled across Asia and to the West, the doctrines influenced the diet of the Buddhist community, creating a colorful and harmonious culinary culture. In some Buddhist communities there are quite strict dietary regulations that must be observed, such as not eating any strong or pungent vegetable or seasoning. This means that onions, garlic, leeks, chives, shallots, and ginger, would not be used. In other sects these flavors are acceptable so as long as they are used sparingly, or to just add enough flavor, nothing to excite the taste buds too much. Regardless of what is used, so as long as it is prepared mindfully and for the benefit of sustaining life it is acceptable.

Many Buddhists in the Theravada tradition eat meat, however some also observe a vegetarian diet as well. One surprising fact is that the Buddha was not actually a vegetarian, he did eat meat only if it were offered to him. In China, tofu became a major source of protein for the Buddhist communities practicing the Mahayana tradition. Tofu is packed with nutrients, protein, and iron, it’s also flavorful and very filling too!. When mashed it can be used in mock meat dishes, when sliced it can be fried, hence the reason it’s such a popular choice food among vegetarians across the world. Some studies have shown that tofu can even reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.

Vietnamese Buddhist cuisine is light and refreshing, and also uses lots of tofu. In vietnam many kinds of mock meats are made by using dried tofu skins and wheat gluten (Mock duck). One very versatily and exceptionally yummy vegan dish is Vietnamese vegan ham. This mock ham has a light flavor, with hints of black pepper and essence of bamboo leaves. Its often eaten on it’s own or in banh mi, noodles, and soups. If you have never tried Buddhist cuisine immerse yourself in your local Buddhist communities, there is a wealth of knowledge that has survived generations. Buddhist chefs have mastered the art of mindful cooking, this way of preparing ones meals can be helpful in our daily lives, it teaches us that we can prepare a lot with just a little, and to appreciate the food as nourishment for the body, mind, and the heart.

The Beautiful Art of Korean Gayageum In Modern Times

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GAYAGEUM

Photo Courtesy of Gettyimagesbank

In ancient times the soft, earthy, delicate silken sound of the gayageum (Korean Zither) echoed across Korea. It accompanied singers, dancers and drummers in their artistic collaborations, and now today this ancient Korean instrument has found its way west. The Gayageum has a long history in Korea, once was an instrument played for royal palace celebrations. Scholars believe the gayageum was inspired by the guzheng, which is an ancient instrument from China. In the 19th century the sanjo gayageum was born, Sanjo means “scattered melodies”, which has moments of improvisation and fast tempo. During this time new works were written for the sanjo gayageum which has become the most standard version of the instrument today. The sweet honey like sound of the instrument comes from its silk strings, and the traditional paulownia wood body of the instrument.

Over the course of its long history, construction and the composition of many folk pieces, the gayageum has made its way into the western music world. Dazzling audiences with its rich sound, the gayageum has become a famed instrument across the world. One remarkable aspect of the Korean gayageum is its ability to fuse harmoniously with different instruments, creating an atmosphere of old and new. Contemporary Gayageum performers have gone viral on social media platforms for their new, exciting and innovative works on the gayageum. One of these creative masters is Koreas own, Luna Lee. Check out the groundbreaking work Luna is creating in this video.

With the global appreciation of gayageum music, new collaborations are taking place. These collaborations are paving grounds for future artists and creatives, and also building a cultural base for world music enthusiasts to enjoy today. Many people across the world have taken up learning the gaygeum, and in doing so, also learning new ways of expression for themselves. This global cultural exchange fosters a deep profound appreciation for gayageum, and its relevance in todays contemporary world. The art of gayageum represents a rich and ancient lineage, a balance of harmony and innovation, as well as the timelessness and elegance of Korean tradition.

The Chinese Art of Gourd Carving

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Sculpture by Li Dehua

Many countries across the globe have used gourds for culinary traditions, building instruments and even art! With its durable material, once dried, it becomes perfect for carved sculptures. In China the gourd or Hulu 葫芦 symbolizes fortune and wealth because it sounds so similar to Hulu. The gourd seeds are also a symbol of fertility and productivity. For thousands of years the Chinese have used gourds for carrying water, displays, erasing negative energy, and carvings. Artists use different gourds with unique shapes for carvings, expressing their creativity, skill, and mastery.

It’s said that the gourd is one of the eight treasures of Feng Shui, and bringing one in the home can remove negative energies, illnesses and also attract fortune. The gourd is the symbol of Li Tieguai, one of the eight immortals, who has the power to liberate his soul from his body. This symbol of longevity is very important in Chinese culture, and has influenced this beautiful art form. Records of gourd artwork first appeared in the Ming Dynasty 1368-1644 in history books, and can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907).

Artists use many techniques of creating art with gourds, painting, carving, shaping and polishing to name a few. The trick to this art form is to not alter the natural shape of the gourd but to instead highlight it’s natural beauty with the use of paintings or carving. The most valuable artworks are those that have not been altered much, showcasing the natural aesthetic of the gourd. Gourd art that has not been altered much has the highest artistic value and is quite prized.

Reference: http://en.chinaculture.org/library/2008-01/22/content_46365.htm#:~:text=Gourd%20art%20involves%20creating%20works,Dynasty%20(618%2D907).

Multicultural Cooking

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With flavors encompassing global culinary traditions, multicultural cooking has become the food of the future. So much of our identities and cultures are tied directly to our food! By learning about foods from around the world, we learn more about ourselves, and we learn a non verbal language that expresses friendship and love. Multicultural cooking brings people together through the language of food and love, enlightening people to new perspectives and enriching our tastebuds with new flavors and textures. The use of different spices, sauces, herbs, and cooking techniques creates a symphonic experience on the palate and opens doors to new rich and ancient culinary cooking techniques.

Food is a way of living, and our food reflects our cultural identities. On different occasions our food may also highlight our cultural and religious values. On Chinese New Year it is common for families to gather together for making dumplings, each dumpling is made by hand, a little pouch filled with love. Sometimes on certain days food may also be offered to ancestors, set on a shrine with incense and candles, prayers and flowers may also be offered in their honor. Many diverse multicultural families will have a colorful array of different foods for New Years, or even for every day meals! For example, dumplings from China, Indian curry, Vietnamese salads, and American BBQ. Every family has their own way, and their own unique ways of preparing cultural foods.

The beauty of multicultural cuisine is certainly in its skillful and innovative use of ingredients and creative ways of blending flavors. When different cultures interact, a new food is born, creating new culinary masterpieces. Home chefs, and professional culinary experts both enjoy experimenting with new flavors and new ingredients, using techniques from different cultures, which leads to an exciting cross-cultural culinary experience.

~Jarrelle

Shamisen In Modern Music

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The Shamisen is a traditional Japanese 3 stringed instrument, shamisen meaning ” three strings” in Japanese. This lute like instrument has its origins in China where it is named sanxian, also meaning ” 3 strings” in Chinese. Both Shamisen and Sanxian were instruments used by common folk, and the history of the pieces played on these instruments reflects its evolution through the centuries. The Shamisens construction varies, usually changing depending on musical genre. Shamisen used in Kabuki are usually called Nagauta Shamisen, and shamisen from the northern Tsugaru peninsula is called Tsugaru Shamisen. Nagauta Shamisen music is very elegant, with unique tone bends and ornamentations that highlights this musical genres flavors. Tsugaru folk music is a bit more intense, fast in tempo and incredibly complex, exciting and very bright to the listeners ears. Below are some videos of Shamisen in all its glory:

Here is a video of Nagauta shamisen

Here is a video of Tsugaru shamisen

This traditional Japanese instrument has gracefully found its way into the modern world, captivating the global audience and leaving music enthusiasts in awe. With only 3 strings, a pick ( bachi) and a sound chamber, this instruments simple construction reflects its long history. Although this instrument is steeped in tradition it has become popular in many contemporary pieces and genres, highlighting its versatility. In the hands of skilled innovative musicians the shamisens voice carries the voice and soul of ancient Japan into contemporary musical genres.

The Yoshida Brothers have become masters of both traditional and contemporary music taking the world by surprise with their virtuosity. Here they have transformed shamisen music, bridging east and west.

Music is a language, and the shamisen in modern music is creating new possibilities for cross cultural musical conversation. This cross cultural conversation enlightens us, teaching music enthusiasts the many unique ways of expressions across the globe. As Japans national instrument, the shamisen will add a new flavor to the global palette for many generations to come.

~Jarrelle

RACE AND AMERICA

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Race in America is a complex discussion that has many facets. We can not ignore POC history, we can not push aside the sad and very real issues we are faced with in the USA. Today we are here, we are present, and our goal is to dismantle white supremacy and build a path for all cultures and identities now, and in the future.

THE FACTS:

  • White supremacist disapprove multiculturalism
  • White supremacists only support ” white ” identity
  • White supremacists sometimes use violence and fear to achieve their goals

THE METHOD:

When we are faced with the pain, trauma, violence, and hate of white America it is important that we BIPOC do not give rise to hate within our own hearts, or we become no different than them. It is important that we cultivate our hearts with love, peace, and non-violence in the quest of racial equity. For most of us BIPOC it is frightening to even think of the tragic history of America, and yet alone live today in the aftermath. So the question arises, “how do we end racism in America?”. First of all, you are NOT the problem, it is not your issue, the problem is within the engrained racism in our society and roots of white nationalism. To end racism we must educate, make our voices heard, and promote peace and equity in our new American culture. It may be difficult for some white nationalists to accept culture, this is not the problem of our BIPOC communities, and we should not internalize it, or it then becomes transformed into internalized racism. We can only continue sharing our cultures, freely expressing our identities and living as genuinely true to ourselves as we possibly can. Radiate love and peace, and eventually a cold heart will become warm.

END GOAL:

The end goal for our bicultural Asian American Pacific Islander AAPI and Black Indigenous People Of Color BIPOC communities is to promote the cultural message of acceptance, love, understand, and appreciation. Many of us come from different cultures and in many ways socially as well, but this does not mean that we disassociate with our neighbors. Many of us have cultural ties to countries that are incredibly diverse and have long histories of peaceful cultural interactions and exchange. Our goal is to appreciate and to embrace the differences, so we can create a better future together.

References: https://www.britannica.com/topic/white-supremacy