I have always been quick to dismiss the idea that I am someone who can experience racial discrimination. I know that’s something that I have to work on. I always felt as if the transgressions that happened to me were too small and that there were bigger problems to solve.
This year has forced me to look back on moments in my life that I have brushed off and confront them. Hate against Asian Americans is palpable today and permeates this country’s history. There’s only so much individual reflection can do; it’s time to act as a whole.
For this 24-year-old, fighting for Palestinian rights is ‘the most core part of my identity’
Lea Kayali is one of many Palestinian women continuing a long-held tradition of fighting for liberation
Editor’s Note on gender and identity coverage
We are excited to announce a new gender and identity page on washingtonpost.com
