Movement Journalism

Dear Ms. Magazine,

My name is Meili Zhen and I use she/they pronouns. I am currently in my senior year at the University of Washington Bothell and will soon be obtaining my B.A. in Psychology, along with my minor degrees in Diversity and Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies. Just by looking at what I study, one could make the assumption that I care deeply about inclusivity, or that I keep up with social justice news. These are not wrong—I hope that my minors will help me provide a unique lens to others within the field of psychology.

My pitch to Ms. Magazine is that I could write an article about the mental health of AANHPI women and queer individuals just in time for AANHPI Heritage Month. Specifically, I would like to educate others about how the AANHPI community and specifically women and queer individuals express dissatisfaction with their mental health due to institutional barriers and shame culture within upholding traditional values and/or being forced to put the reputation of their family before their own individuality and happiness. Because of these factors, people may feel discouraged from seeking out therapy, and/or they may not feel comfortable sharing their feelings to their family due to opposing views of mental health. In the article, I would cite academic psychology journals that have conducted studies pertaining to the topic as a way to bring awareness to others.

It would be my pleasure to write something meaningful about and for my communities, and I would love to speak further if there are any questions or suggestions for my pitch.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

Meili Zhen