Meet SJPLA’s Communications Manager, Teresa Wang
So excited to have you with us Teresa! How do you like to celebrate or honor new beginnings?
I like to take these opportunities as an excuse to organize something silly with my friends. Anything from a Korean BBQ dinner, to full-on team competitions with prizes, a homemade trophy, and taunting.
Communications can play such an integral part in dismantling inequitable systems in Los Angeles. How have you approached your work for justice before joining the SJPLA team?
I've spent most of the time just learning about the injustices that exist in LA and continue to every day. At first, my approach to the work was purely reactionary. I got angry, I'd yell into social media, yell at relatives, and marched. But, I was lucky enough to meet organizers along the way. Thanks to them, I learned how stories could shift hearts and minds, and I learned that connecting people who had the same vision is powerful.
I still get angry, yell about things, and march, but I also attempt to connect the concepts of justice to people's values and engage them to join us in making change. I was lucky enough to hone those skills working for organizations advancing social justice, and I'm so excited to be able to bring what I've learned here.
As a San Gabriel Valley resident, what are three important things people need to know about your community?
There are more Asians in the SGV than there are in 42 states. The huge influx of Asians moving to the SGV has created a diverse and powerful political bloc. We debate amongst ourselves around issues like housing, education, and policing. Organizing in these communities must come from within.
We have the best Chinese and Taiwanese food in America. I'm not saying this as an expert, but my dad is. He's not a food critic, he just eats a lot. He will tell you where to go and what to order, and then he'll just take you there and order for you.
The SGV is huge and diverse, it spreads from Pasadena to Pomona. There is a neighborhood for everyone. We have yet to find the queer pocket of the SGV, but I'm sure it's there somewhere.
What experiences have been influential in shaping your values?
Having my parents as my parents has shown me the value of unconditional love and wanting the best for the people we love even if it's not what we pictured.
The aftermath of Prop 8 showed me the values of community and organizing.
Growing up in a very white affluent neighborhood in the 80s and 90s shaped my value of defiance.
Having children has shaped my value of sleep.
Finding moments of rest and joy has never been more important. What’s bringing you joy, and how are you taking care of yourself?
I'm finding joy in TikTok. These very silly, creative videos, make me laugh, impress me with their creativity, and give me a convenient way to zone out completely.
I'm taking care of myself by having a strong community of family and friends around us. Caring for two young children while having full-time jobs through a pandemic can be daunting. Having a pod of people around us, including our family and close friends, has been the most significant practical and emotional resource for taking care of myself.
