ISP chart by Baiyi Zhu

Journal 2- Intersectionality-In what ways can focusing on only one identity category hide important parts of a person's experience? Give an example.

a01712522 — 2025-08-19 01:14:59 UTC

If we focus on just one identity category, we risk overlooking how multiple identities intertwine to shape a person's experiences. Take me, for example: as a strong math student, people might assume I wouldn't excel at sports. But the truth is, I've been roller skating for 10 years since I was a child, and I've even competed professionally. All in all, focusing on only one aspect of an identity can lead to a flawed or incomplete understanding of someone.

Journal 1-identity-Has there ever been a moment when someone’s assumptions about your identity didn’t match who you feel you are? How did you react?

a01712522 — 2025-08-19 03:15:06 UTC

Yes of course I had this kind of moment,there is a really funny fact:As a Chinese who is living in Mexico and also go to high school in Mexico, the people here always think that I can do everything because I´m Chinese, for example, when I do good in some games, my friends always said "ah you are Chinese".The thing I want say is that I´m good in something is not because I´m Chinese, it is because I´m I, not because I´m Chinese.Not every Chinese is good at math, good at everything, everyone is different. But usually I just laugh and I don´t really explain anything.

Journal 3 - Contesting Culture and Identity (Power Relations)-

a01712522 — 2025-08-19 03:19:27 UTC

Theory is essential for creating effective social change. Like a compass, it provides the necessary framework to first diagnose the root causes of social problems, rather than simply prescribing remedies. Based on this understanding, theory helps articulate a vision for a better, more just future, providing a common purpose for all movements. This vision then forms a coherent strategy, guiding actions and tactics, making them more purposeful and impactful.Ultimately, the most successful movements are those in which theory and practice continually reinforce each other, ensuring that action is not only passionate but also intelligently directed towards lasting change. This is the difference between simply protesting injustice and methodically dismantling the systems that perpetuate it.

Journal 4 - Multiculturalism and Conflict

a01712522 — 2025-10-21 03:11:41 UTC

When cultural differences lead to conflict, building peace requires a multifaceted effort. As a Chinese living in Mexico, I often find myself caught up in cultural conflicts. I can't understand the thinking of some Mexicans, and they certainly don't understand me. For me personally, the key to resolving problems lies in approaching them with empathy, actively listening, and building connections.Communities should build inclusive platforms, encourage diverse groups to connect through dialogue and joint projects, and provide fair mediation mechanisms. Artists, on the other hand, have a unique power: through music and visual art, they can challenge stereotypes, inspire emotional resonance that transcends differences, and help people imagine a shared and peaceful future.

Journal 5 - Globalization and Art-How do you think globalization influences the way artists from different parts of the world express their ideas and emotions?

a01712522 — 2025-11-13 16:56:04 UTC

As a Chinese student living in Mexico, I think globalization is a trade-off for artists. It's amazing how we can blend diverse elements—for example, seeing Mexican murals inspire artists in Shanghai, or Chinese art influencing people here. This helps us share grand and universal emotions. However, I also worry that it might make art too homogenized, as if everyone online is chasing the same "international" style, and we might lose the unique feeling derived from Chinese or Mexican culture.