Asian Avenue magazine - April 2017 by Asian Avenue magazine

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asian avenue Connecting Cultures Linking Lives

April 2017 Volume 12 Issue 4

A SLOW WALK THROUGH CHIANG MAI

LGBTQIA+

WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR AAPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S? A QUIET CRISIS AMONG KOREAN IMMIGRANT CHURCHES

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Tattooing • Live Art Floor • Performance Art • Healing Area • Live Animals • Vendors • and more!!

June 2 - 4, 2017

Original artwork by Seth Leibowitz

Colorado Convention Center Advance Ticket Pricing $12 Student/Military | $16 General

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Dear Asian Avenue readers,

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Spring is here! It’s finally time to keep our heavy sweaters and welcome the lovely weather in our flip-flops! Our cover story this month features the LGBTQIA community in Colorado. Through their stories, these characters displayed strong resilience and immense courage as they embraced their sexuality and gender identities. Special thanks to Cory Palencia, our photographer for this cover story for the beautiful photos! Our Restaurant Peek this month features Lucky China, a long-standing Chinese restaurant located at South Havana Street. Go try their mouth watering Northeastern cuisines, such as Pork dumplings and pan friend buns that are not only unique but absolutely delicious! In May, we will feature the 2017 Asian American Heroes of Colorado in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. We thank everyone who submitted nominations for the outstanding individuals in your life. We are excited to share the admirable stories and invite you to celebrate the ceremony with us at Kings Land Chinese Restaurant on May 20. Get tickets at www.cacenetwork.org! Last but not the least, we would also like to introduce our newly minted Marketing Manager Joie Ha. Joie was honored with the Asian American Heroes of Colorado - Young Hero Award in 2013. We are so excited to have Joie on board with us, and also the many new ideas she will be bringing to the team!

Christina Yutai Guo, Publisher Asian Avenue magazine | www.asianavemag.com

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April 2017 | Publisher’s Note

staff & support Publisher & Founder: Christina Yutai Guo President: Annie Guo Senior Designer: C.G. Yao Copy Editor: Jaime Marston Cook Editorial Director: Samantha Quee Marketing Manager: Joie Ha Staff Writer: Patricia Kaowthumrong Staff Writer: Mary Jeneverre Schultz Photographer: Trang Luong

contributing writers Yijing Chen, Caroline Field, JK Joung, Amy Ng, Cory Palencia, Tom Shieh, Timothy K Wilson

contributing photographers Cory Palencia

on the cover LGBTQIA individuals share their personal experiences growing with their families and finding acceptance, confidence and companionship. Photo by Cory Palencia.

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editorial To submit story ideas, letters to the editor or calendar events, e-mail info@asianavemag.com. Asian Avenue magazine (ISSN 1932-1449) reserves all copyrights to this issue. No parts of this edition can be reproduced in any manner without written permission. The views expressed in articles are the authors’ and not necessarily those of Asian Avenue magazine. Authors may have consulting or other business relationships with the companies they discuss.

Published by Asian Avenue Magazine, Inc. P.O. Box 221748 Denver, CO 80222-1748 Tel: 303.937.6888 | info@asianavemag.com

www.asianavemag.com Asian Avenue magazine is in association with the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.

CONTENTS

april 2017

EVENTS

8 9

Event calendar Aurora Places visioning workshops welcome public input

TRAVEL

A slow walk through Chiang Mai, Thailand

FEATURE

A quiet crisis among Korean immigrant churches

COVER STORY

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE LGBTQIA+ AND ASIAN/ PACIFIC ISLANDER AMERICAN?

BETTER LIVING

Every person is worthy of love written by columnist Tom Shieh

Colorado LGBTQIA+ Asian Americans share their personal stories, experiences and advice.

CHEF’S MENU

RESTAURANT PEEK

Lucky China in Aurora highlights dishes with the original taste of northeastern China

FASHION

How to make General Tso’s Chicken

Q&A interview with designer Cyril Lumboy from the reality series The Doll Life Chinese fashion designer Guo Pei is best known for designing dresses for Chinese celebrities and Rihanna’s yellow gown at the 2015 Met Ball

FILM REVIEW

ON SCENE

RTD R-Line opens

Farewell reception for the Consul General of Japan and Mrs. Makoto Ito

Hong Kong Commissioner to the U.S. visits Denver

So many sakes at Uncle Joe’s Travel & Adventure Show featured worldwide destination experts

CULTURAL TIDBITS

When I stopped using chopsticks

The Sad Wall: How Hollywood messed up a potentially great movie

ASIAN AVENUE MAGAZINE, INC. P.O. Box 221748 Denver, CO 80222-1748 | Tel: 303.937.6888 E-mail: info@asianavemag.com | www.asianavemag.com 6 April 2017 | Table of Contents

Find us @AsianAveMag

#AsianAveMag

LUCKY CHINA

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Northeastern Steamed Bun Pickled Cabbage with Pork Pot Seaweed Shrimp Dumpling Soup Taiwanese Style Braised Beef Noodle Pan Fried Pork Dumpling Pan Fried Buns with Beef H Hot and Spicy Beef Pot Steamed Twisted Roll Fried Leek Dumplings

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For more information call 720-873-6243 or visit our website today at: www.ColoEggDonor.com William Schoolcraft, MD • Eric Surrey, MD • Debra Minjarez, MD Robert Gustofson, MD • Jennifer Brown, MD

events upcoming Japan Style: Netsuke Now through May 21

Norma Johnson is a healer, poet and performer who brings inspired awareness to insights on race and human rights. Norma’s poems are used by educators across the country to arouse consciousness about how race, privilege and class affect our daily lives. Her powerful and poignant collection of “Poems for My White Friends” stirs hearts and minds and opens space for inquiry, reflection and dialogue about the inevitable role race plays in our society and in our lives every day.

Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center 210 N Santa Fe Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003 Cost: $8 Adults; $6 Children, Military, and Seniors Arts Center members always free. For more info, visit www.sdc-arts.org. Pronounced “nets-keh”, these small, intricately carved sculptural objects made of ivory, wood, metal, or ceramic, were originally used as a button-like fixture on a man’s sash, from which small personal belongings were hung. The netsuke developed into highly coveted and collectible art forms. Trent’s delightful collection holds over 100 netsuke art forms. Today, there is a broad range from “folk art” carvings to levels of sophisticated fine art and exists as such today with true master-carvers from all over the world still creating these little masterpieces.

Traditional Indian Dance by Colorado Fine Arts Association Wednesday, April 5, Begins at 7pm

Broomfield Auditorium, 3 Community Park Rd, Broomfield, CO 80020 Cost: Free For more info, visit facebook. com/creativebroomfield or www.attheaudi.com

Bharatanatyam is one of the several classical dances originated in India. This particular dance form traces its roots to the culture-rich Southern State of Tamilnadu. This graceful yet strong form of art is a combination of pure, physical dance and storytelling through emotive facial expressions and various hand gestures each signifying a different message. Numerous Bharatanatyam dances portray the different aspects of Hindu mythology, such as through stories about the many Gods of India. These stories are often didactic, and carry morals for humanity to follow. The performance presented by Colorado Fine Arts Association is performed by the graduates of the Shivanjali Center for Fine Arts, a school founded by Mrs. Puja Allepalli in 2004.

Norma Johnson and Dexter Payne Thursday, April 6, Begins at 7pm

Broomfield Auditorium 3 Community Park Rd, Broomfield, CO 80020 Cost: Free For more info, visit facebook.com/creativebroomfield or www.attheaudi.com

April 2017 | Event Calendar

Highly ranked in Downbeat Magazine Readers Poll and 2011 International Blues Challenge winner, Clarinetist Dexter Payne is recognized internationally for his work on clarinet, sax and harmonica. Norma will share insights about working in a white world and what inspired her to write poems for her white friends. There will be a Q&A and open, meaningful discussion about how race affects our lives.

Standing Up and Speaking Out! Saturday, April 8, 11am to 1:30pm

Park Hill United Methodist Church, 5209 Montview Blvd. Denver, CO 80207 Cost: $5 and above (donation) Tickets: www.eventbrite.com For more info visit www.inclusivecolorado.org The Minoru Yasui Legacy Project and the Coalition for an Inclusive Colorado present “Standing Up & Speaking Out!” This event honors those who work with and for refugee and Event will honor immigrant communities Nadeen Ibrahim, in the greater metro area. community activist The event will showcase the new documentary on Minoru Yasui and his work for social justice, present the 2017 Sandpiper Awards and offer a Taste of the World luncheon!

The Rama Epic: Hero, Heroine, Ally, Foe

Tuesday, April 18, 6:30pm to 7pm

Sharp Auditorium, Hamilton Building, Denver Art Museum 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204 Cost: Free Reserve tickets by calling 720-913-0130, stop by the ticketing desk in the museum, or at www.denverartmuseum.org.

Demons and monkeys battle. Noblemen and women fall in love, perform valiant deeds, and sometimes betray each other. Both the magical events of the world of superheroes and real human experiences familiar to us all fill the stories of the legendary Indian prince Rama. This talk by Dr. Forest McGill of the Chong-Moon Lee Center for Asian Art and Culture at the Asian Art Museum, San Francisco, focuses on the Rama epic’s four main characters— the divine hero, the stalwart heroine, the powerful monkey ally, and the ten-headed demon king--as they are portrayed in ancient and contemporary sculptures, paintings, and theater arts, including works from the Denver Art Museum.

Chinese and American Views on the Media’s Role Saturday, April 22, 1pm to 3pm

Jennie Smoly Caruthers Biotechnology Building, 3415 Colorado Ave, Boulder, CO 80303 Butcher Auditorium Cost: Free The media’s role as a social institution has long been a pressing issue for Chinese and American scholars, politicians, journalists and others. In this lecture, Timothy Weston will focus on the complex history of Sino-American discourse related to media and society. Beginning in the early 20th century, China and the United States sparred over the media’s role and, in fact, served as a foil for each other regarding media attitudes and practices. However, as the Internet, social media and other media technologies contributed to globalization, this has complicated a traditionally confrontational discourse between the two countries over the appropriate role of the press in society.

Art exhibition: Opening Doors

Wednesday, April 26 to the end of Fall 2017

The Children’s Museum of Denver, 2121 Children’s Museum Dr, Denver, CO 80211 Cost: Free On April 26, the Children’s Museum unveils a poignant public art exhibition, Opening Doors, that celebrates our diverse community. The exhibit, featuring local artists, will be a series of 11 open doors that form a welcome ribbon at the Museum entrance with a message of “all are welcome here!” To kick off the exhibit opening, the Museum will host a “Pay As You Will Day” on April 26, where families can come to the Museum from 9 am - 7:30 pm and choose their own admission price. This hands-on, interactive exhibit will be on the Museum plaza through the fall of 2017, free for all to experience.

g PUBLIC INVITED TO VISIONING WORKSHOPS THIS SPRING FOR ROUND 2 OF AURORA PLACES PLAN OUTREACH

By: Julie Patterson, Senior Public Information Officer for City of Aurora

The second round of public outreach for the city of Aurora’s Aurora Places comprehensive planning project is happening this spring, giving residents another chance to weigh in on this plan for the city’s future. This is the time for Aurora residents and businesses to share their vision for Aurora’s future and their ideas for how to make it happen. Visioning is a group effort—sharing, debating and putting ideas on a map—so people are encouraged to attend, collaborate with neighbors and be part of the process. Participants will have a chance to discuss issues like how Aurora’s neighborhoods can be more enjoyable for residents, how the city should manage critical resources, how neighborhoods can support a more active lifestyle and better physical and mental health, where residents want to work and play, and what should be done to make Aurora a more vibrant and successful community. The following workshops will begin with a light meal, followed by the visioning workshop. • NORTH: APRIL 26, 5:30 TO 8 P.M. The Hangar at Stanley, 2501 Dallas St. • CENTRAL: APRIL 26, 5:30 TO 8 P.M. Overland High School, 12400 E. Jewell Ave. • SOUTH: APRIL 26, 5:30 TO 8 P.M. Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Club, 23155 E. Heritage Parkway • EAST: MAY 2, 5:30 TO 8 P.M. Vista PEAK Preparatory School, 24500 E. Sixth Ave. • DAYTIME: MAY 3, 11:30 A.M. TO 1:30 P.M. Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway Aurora Places is a comprehensive plan that will serve as a foundation for decision-making related to land use, development, transportation, public facilities, parks and open space, and other aspects of a great city. It will guide and inform local officials, city staff, developers, business owners, residents, neighborhood groups and other community stakeholders. Last year, more than 2,300 people participated in phase one outreach for Aurora Places, identifying priorities, assets and opportunities in Aurora via public workshops, surveys, focus groups and online outreach.

Visit www.auroraplacesplan.com for more details and other ways to engage in the project. To ensure there is enough food for the workshops, please RSVP at auroraplaces@auroragov.org or 303.739.7271. Children are welcome, and activities will be provided. Upcoming Events | asian avenue magazine

A SLOW WALK THROUGH

CHIANG MAI Article and Photos by Cory Palencia Having travelled to both South America and Europe, I realized it was time to get closer to my roots. The intention of my trip to Thailand was to spend some time in Asia, closer to my homeland in the Philippine Islands, while still exploring and experiencing new cultures. During previous trips to Brazil and Spain, I was largely dependent on travel guidebooks to point me in the right direction. On this trip, I wanted to focus on the people, be more present in the moment, and rid myself of expectations. I wanted to have my conversations lead me to what I would do next. After a short stay in Pattaya, the socalled “Detroit of the East,” and then a clunky train ride, I stepped foot onto the Chiang Mai train station platform. I booked my time in Chiang Mai at a hostel that was bursting with life. It was a large open-air campus with a pool, lodging, another building for booking trips, and even a Thai cover band playing old favorites. Each morning, headed out into the humid air of Chiang Mai, I enjoyed having a sit down with friendly Germans or a lovable, rogue Swede, or the customary Australian students that grace the lobbies and living rooms of hostels worldwide. More than 700 years old, the downtown portion Chiang Mai is surrounded by what remains of old castle walls and a moat. These relics serve as a reminder of the once constant threat of Burma and the Mongul Empire led by Ghengis Khan. Built in 1296, Chiang Mai is Thai for ‘New City.’ Historically caught amid wars and conquests, Chaing Mai is now a thriving metropolis recognized as the unofficial Northern capital of Thailand. A strong creative undercurrent runs through the city, thanks to the presence of Chiang Mai

April 2017 | Travel

University. During my stay, I planned one activity a day then spent the rest of each day meandering through the streets. I found a farmer’s market tucked away outside the city walls and open in the sleepy, dewy mornings. Everyday I went and purchased a bunch of stubby, delightfully sweet bananas. I couldn’t get enough. Full of sights and smells, the market featured all the varieties of fish being prepared for sale, clothes, fruit, popsicles, and assorted gifts. Of the many markets to visit in Chiang Mai, the most well-known is the Saturday Night Walking Street, in which pedestrians and vendors take over the busy Qualia Road. Vacationers check out unique items and northern Thai food at the market. Almost every day would end with a meal from a street vendor that sold Kuaytiaw Khrae and Bamii (traditional Thai soups) near my hostel. The vendor was more permanent than a cart but with fewer walls than a store-front restaurant. I had to walk around a maze of chain-link fences to the family that sat by the register watching shows on a tiny TV. The first time I went, they seemed to think I was more familiar with the process than I actually was. I paid up front, without a menu, and picked the meat I wanted. I stood around until the matriarch kindly pointed to a seat. Soon, I was given a bowl with pork slices, unknown meat balls and thin rice noodles. Before I could dive in, the matriarch returned with a spice rack and a beer I had ordered and pointed to a couple of barrels containing sprouts and other greens to garnish my dish. I loaded up on the sprouts, green onions, and tons of chili peppers. If I wasn’t already sweating enough with the heat and humidity, the

food helped. I had the opportunity to visit the Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institution, which teaches vocational skills to inmates. The goal is to break the cycle of poverty and crime by providing training and employment opportunities. Trainees are selected based on behavior and type of sentence, usually non-violent crimes. They can choose options such as working in a café, making crafts for the shop, or helping in a massage parlor. They are also taught how to cook and to speak English. The wages they make while working are kept aside and given to them upon their release, giving them new life skills and a nest egg to help the process of reintegrating into civil society. While I was there waiting for a massage, I enjoyed a Thai tea on the patio at the café. It was peaceful sitting and listening to the water fountain bubble nearby. Once inside, the women washed my feet, provided me with a robe and slippers, and led me to a massage table in a large room. Although I was next to a bunch of other people, privacy forgotten, it was very enjoyable to listen to the women talk amongst each other in Thai, entertaining themselves and laughing while working. They were very professional and attentive the whole time. Throughout my trip I had received all kinds of massage, ranging broadly in quality and I can say that these ladies were some of the best. It is refreshing to see government take a proactive and rehabilitative approach to serving the people in their prison systems. On another adventure, I went to visit one of Thailand’s most famous and magnificent temples, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which rivals any of the great reli

gious sites around the world. The temple, Wat Phra That, rests on a mountain named Doi Suthep. I took a Rót daang, Thai for ‘Red truck’, up to the base of the steps of Wat Phra That. Rót daang are common and cheap methods of transportation around Thailand. They won’t make a trip until they are full, or full as they can get. A variety of stalls sell souvenirs and food all around the temple. It is a long climb to the top, but also a peaceful experience among the ornate steps, the sounds of many tourists dampened by the close trees that hug the path. The temple stairs are flanked by two large, exquisitely decorated nagas, or mythical serpents, to guide guests up to the Wat. The temple area is largely silent, and for good reason: the massive golden stupa dominates the area and commands attention - its design is serene and the scale of it is truly impressive. Visitors light incense and pray peacefully, receiving blessings as they kneel before friendly monks, who laugh easily. Every inch of the temple contains historic art and artifacts worthy of appreciation. The legend behind the creation of Wat Phra That centers on Gautama Buddha; the location of the Wat was chosen because of a relic found there, claimed to be a bone of Gautama Buddha. A king placed a fragment of Gautama’s bone on top of a white elephant. The elephant then made its way up the mountain, trumpeted three times, and died. The king took this as an omen and immediately ordered construction of the temple. The site where the elephant perished is now the location of the great stupa. My time spent in Chiang Mai, Thailand was one of my favorite experiences abroad. The people are friendly, and the city carries itself with a small-town provincial feel rich with history. The lush surrounding forest balances the buildings and the urban bustle. There is so much to do and yet also time to take it slow. Chiang Mai is an essential destination for serenity, history and culture.

Chiang Mai, Thailand | asian avenue magazine

“In Essentials Unity, In Non-Essentials Liberty, In All Things Charity”

A Quiet Crisis Among Korean Immigrant Churches By J.K. Joung, Managing Partner of Envision Eye Care

Korean immigrant churches are undergoing a quiet crisis, which will likely eliminate over 50 percent of nearly 4,000 of them within the next decade - and disintegrate many tight-knit Korean-American communities. Korean cultural and spiritual tradition in the U.S. is at risk. Korean immigrant churches often act as the glue that binds Koreans together in their adopted foreign home. These churches not only serve as spiritual centers for Korean-Americans, but also as community centers with various cultural events and activities, including Korean language classes for children and education programs for the elderly. Reportedly, 75 percent of Koreans in the U.S. regularly attend these (mostly Protestant) churches.

April 2017 | Feature

These Korean churches are founded by first generation “elders” who immigrated to the US during the 1970s and 80s, after the U.S. Immigration Act of 1965. These founders are typically small-business owners who retain traditional Korean values and have not assimilated into mainstream American culture. These churches are complete with conservative, male-dominant, and patriarchal tendencies. Many of the founders are nearing, or have already passed, retirement age. The problem is that as these first generation Korean-Americans age, they struggle to pass their spiritual and cultural heritage to their children. Simply put, as soon as an American-born Korean becomes an adult, he or she may choose to stop going to his or her parents’ house of worship. As a result, the congregations of these churches are rapidly aging. Today, a typical Korean immigrant church consists of 50 percent of people age 55 and above, 30 percent of individuals in their working years, and 20 percent are children. Why are Korean immigrant churches withering away? There are two possible answers. The first comes from a shift in immigration trends. These days, not many Koreans are immigrating to the U.S. According to the Migration Policy Institute, there have been a total of 1.1 million Koreans who have immigrated to the U.S. Sixty-six percent arrived prior to 2000, followed by 24 percent who arrived between 2000 and 2009. Only ten percent immigrated between 2010 and 2015. Today, more than 2,000 Korean-Americans are returning to Korea each year, a 50 percent jump compared with ten years

“

... as these first generation Korean-Americans age, they struggle to pass their spiritual and cultural heritage to their children.

”

ago. This stagnant net immigration trend limits the number of new people from Korea joining immigrant churches in the U.S. Second and more importantly, the first generation Korean churches have failed to retain a growing number of second generation Korean-Americans. Anecdotally, there are only about ten percent of second generation Korean-Americans attending ethnically Korean churches. In Colorado, for example, the largest Korean-speaking church boasts approximately 700 people in its congregation while the largest English-speaking Korean church has a mere 70 members. Most second generation Korean-Americans have either been absorbed into mainstream churches or have stopped going to church altogether. Why do second generation Korean-Americans leave their parents’ churches? The key to this question lies in a cultural clash between traditional Korean norms of first generation Korean-Americans’ and their often stubborn unwillingness to change, and the second generation’s adoption of liberal, contemporary American culture. Korean churches are slow to change, indeed. For example, Korean church leaders continue to insist on serving traditional rice-and-soup meals. The process of decision-making and communication is highly centralized and hierarchical. Services and sermons are deemed too formal in style and irrelevant in content to people working in the mainstream. There is also the language barrier. Clearly, the inter-generational cultural clash is driving away the second generation of Korean-Americans in droves. One may ask, “What’s wrong with second generation Korean-Americans joining mainstream, mostly-white churches?” The reality is many in this group do not feel comfortable in either place and often bounce back and forth between the two. In the process, many drop out of Christian faith com-

pletely while feeling confused in their ethnic, racial and cultural identity. What can first generation Koreans do to ensure a better generational transition? They could help incubate a new type of church that contains the following three elements: Korean-ness, American-ness, and faith in Christ. Korean elders should provide financial and spiritual support to quickly launch new churches for their children. At the same time, the elders must offer their children autonomy and independence so that the younger generation can shape these churches in the ways that work for them. The consequence of not making this effort may result in the slow demise of churchbased Korean culture and community in the U.S. Meanwhile, a consolidation among Korean immigrant churches is currently underway. Small churches are crumbling; bigger churches are buying time by absorbing defecting members from smaller churches - until even these bigger churches dwindle and wither away. This optical illusion of “growth” among the leaders of bigger Korean immigrant churches may be hampering the urgency of needed transitional actions.

Korean Churches | asian avenue magazine

LAILA IRELAND

Preferred pronouns: she, her, hers Membership Director for SPART*A (Service Members, Partners, Allies for Respect and Tolerance for All) War Veteran, deployed three times to Iraq as interrogator and medic

“The only power you have is to outwardly love somebody.”

What does it mean to be LGBTQIA+ and Asian/Pacific Islander-American? Article by Joie Ha | Photos by Cory Palencia LET’S START WITH GENDER

When we met Laila, she welcomed us with a warm hug and a smile. She is funny, positive, and an absolute joy. Despite her difficult past, Laila faces the future with confidence and determination to never back down. What was your childhood like? When I was a kid, I did not identify very well with being a boy. Growing up in a Pacific Islander, Catholic, and military family, a boy acting like a girl was unacceptable! I conformed because I was conditioned to be the boy my family thought I was. But I knew I was different; I would always want to wake up and be who I really was - a girl. My effeminate ways were frowned upon by everyone in family. They would physically discipline me and tell me, “You’re never going to be a girl; you’re never going to be part of the family.”

caretakers for when men go off to battle, but they can also be the fighters. They can play a double role, so they are seen as sacred. Now, our culture is so westernized that being mahu may be seen as different and therefore undesirable. I think it’s important to go back to our roots and remember that being transgender is not a bad thing. What was coming out like? Before my transition, I actually identified as a gay male, but that never sat well with me. Right before my first deployment, I decided to tell my mom I was gay and she was not having it. It was sobering for me because the one person that I thought was my best friend was pushing me away. She threatened to disown me. It wasn’t until eight months into my deployment that my family started talking to me again. Someone from my

What was it like being transgender and serving in the military? The military does not allow transgender people to serve, so you have to keep it to yourself. I was an interrogator, which was really hard in itself. Things got worse when I started identifying as transgender. When I came back from deployment, they started moving me from department to department to hide me because I was ‘different.’ What does it mean to be both Pacific Islander-American and transgender? In Old Hawaiian and Chamorro culture, being transgender, or mahu (two spirit), is seen as a gift. Mahu people act as

April 2017 |Cover Story

Laila (right) with her husband Logan Ireland (left).

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“Love people. It takes understanding to build a nation.” - Laila Ireland

unit was killed in an IED explosion and a service was held for the military families involved. My family was put in the front and my mom witnessed the other family’s loss of their son. She realized that it could have been me and that was when my mom started to accept me. I finally went to a therapist in 2012 and told her everything. I was in tears, and she told me, “there’s a term for what you’re feeling: it’s transgender.” Letting my family know that I was transgender was like telling them all over again that I was gay. It was enough to feel like I didn’t want to be alive anymore. Then I realized that I wasn’t the only one transitioning, everyone was transitioning with me. What was one of your happiest moments? In March 2014, my dad took me out to dinner for my birthday and told me I could dress however I wanted to dress. We went to dinner and he used the right pronouns and even corrected our waiter who kept calling me ‘he’. That was the turning point for me. After dinner, my family had a surprise for me - they brought out a cake and on top it said, ‘Happy Birthday, Laila.’ When they used that name instead of my male birth name, I knew that they finally had accepted me. Since then they have been my rock for my entire transition - I can talk to them about anything. I can even talk to my dad about makeup and he’ll listen and tell me what color he likes. You got to meet President Obama at the 2015 PRIDE Reception. How was that? In June 2015, the New York Times did an opinion documentary piece about me and my husband called, “Transgender: At War and In Love.” The article went viral, and two weeks later, we got an email from the White House with a formal invitation to the White House PRIDE Reception. The invitation mentioned that the President had seen the video and knew I was from Hawaii! Meeting the President was the experience of a lifetime. What are your hobbies? I LOVE to cook. Cooking is what brings everyone together. When I host gatherings for family and friends, we cook the entire feast. My mom always taught me that you always cook plenty because you never know who may come to the door. What do you say to people who are struggling? I wish I could just hug people who are having a hard time. It is okay to be different. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to love who you want to love. Don’t be afraid to be yourself. That is the one thing that no one can take away from you.

JORDAN BLISK

Preferred pronouns: he/his/him Law Student at the University of Colorado - Boulder Senior Airman in the Air Force from 2011-2015

“Stop worrying so damn much about what is in our pants.” Talking with Jordan, you are immediately impressed by his intellect and ability to so eloquently express his thoughts. He speaks quickly, backs up his statements with facts, and is incredibly expressive and passionate. It’s no wonder that he is an aspiring attorney. What was your experience discovering your identity? Some of my earliest memories were trying to shave like my dad. I never had an interest in anything feminine and it was a battle to get into girls clothing. My mom had to pay me to wear a dress for my graduation party. My parents were very conservative, white, and Christian and I am none of those things, so we had a lot of clashes. I went to a private Baptist high school and if you were queer, they would kick you out. When I started realizing that I was more attracted to women than men, I was bullied, kicked out of church, and almost kicked out of school. In high school, my youth pastor told me, “You’re going to hell, you’re never going to be employed, and you’re never going to college.” A lot of people told me I was worthless. I first identified as gay, but I knew that wasn’t it. I didn’t understand what trans meant until I got to college. I honestly thought it was more of a sexual fetish than an identity. When I joined an LGBT group, I met a trans person and she really just opened my eyes about everything it meant to be trans. I realized that everything that she was saying... that was me. What was the turning point on your journey? I got to a point in which I didn’t want to live anymore. I Christmas in the Philippines didn’t want the future other people were predicting for me. LGBTQIA+ | asian avenue magazine

VY PHAM

Preferred pronouns: he/him/his IT Help Desk at the University of Denver Political Science Major Even though I had abandoned the idea of marrying a man, I still didn’t want to be a woman, or a mother. The older I got, the more I felt it. It just built up to the point that I knew the answer, but I just didn’t want to say it. I asked myself, “Is being trans really worse than being dead?” What was your experience being Chinese, adopted, and transgender? I grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana and had a difficult experience with racism. In 4th grade, my parents had to pull me out of school because my classmates beat me up for being Asian. People didn’t know how to deal with someone that was different. Being adopted, I had a lot of identity struggles growing up, which ultimately helped me with the uncertainty of my gender identity. As for transitioning, I had never seen a trans man, much less an Asian trans man. I didn’t know what Asian-American masculinity or transitioning men looked like! A lot of things surprised me, like growing facial hair! How do you approach bigoted people? A lot of people don’t see trans people as human beings, and yet, I know that it’s important to engage with people who have different perspectives. When others realize I’m a veteran, that I have served my country, it often blows their minds. That contradiction is what makes people sit down and talk to me and realize that we’re not that different after all. What is a fun fact about you? I am the biggest Star Wars nerd on the planet. When I was 12, I desperately wanted a build-your-own light saber kit. It was the coolest toy I’d ever seen and I did everything a kid could do to impress my parents. However, my mom bought me sewing lessons instead! In protest, I sewed a mat and slept on it for a month.

April 2017 | Cover Story

“My goal is to become the first Asian-American transgender politician.” Vy is quick, smart, and has a great sense of humor. Although he is in the midst of his journey, it is clear that he is becoming more confident and comfortable with himself everyday. What has your experience been coming to terms with your identity? At 10, I began referring to myself as a boy. My mother found out and threatened to send me to conversion therapy. I was very masculine, and rejected any feminine clothes and femininity in general. I ran away from home and when I came back, we never really talked about it again. After my first year of college, I cut off my hair. When my parents saw me, they completely flipped out: they told me to never cut my hair again. A month later, I shaved it. Then I told them I was gay. Both of my parents insisted that it was a phase. I began to dress in baggy clothes and because I was very masculine, I would always get referred to as “sir.” It never bothered me and I never corrected them. That was when I realized that I couldn’t just live my life as a gay person - that when I told my mom I was a boy of 10, I meant it. For the longest time, I was afraid of the word ‘trans.’ I wouldn’t even say the word. I was afraid of it because it wasn’t accepted by society to be different. The first time I said it out loud to someone, I started to cry. How did growing up in a Vietnamese and Catholic community affect your journey?

On top of being Vietnamese-American, I was also raised as a Catholic. I went to Bible school at a Vietnamese church every weekend. I think a lot of that contributed to the homophobia I experienced in my youth. In August 2016, my mom told me that she liked women at a younger age, but when her parents and grandparents found out, they beat her and told her she couldn’t be like that. This is quite typical for Vietnamese culture. Most people are not taught about things like gender and sexuality identity in school, and especially not Vietnamese immigrants. In Vietnamese culture, people are very proud of their children - they came from a wartorn country with nothing, and when their kids become successful, that’s all parents want to talk about. But when a child is the black sheep of the family, everyone knows. What is your relationship with your parents now? I think they will eventually accept me. It’s just the initial shock at first. They don’t know anyone who is transgender so it is hard for them to understand what it means. I think they will accept me because they love me very much. What are your hobbies? I like to go hiking and I like to eat macn’-cheese, but I’m lactose intolerant so I can’t eat it all the time. If I had to eat one food for the rest of my life, it would be pizza. How can you say no to cheese and bread?

LET’S TALK ABOUT SEXUALITY

Kevin (right) with his boyfriend David Cortez (left).

KEVIN YANG

Nursing Student “Don’t be afraid to explore. Life is too short, just take a chance. It gets better for those who are trying to come out.” How did you come out as gay? My parents found out through my MySpace profile. My boyfriend and I went to the Gay Pride Festival in Denver nine years ago and we posted photos on MySpace. My uncle found out, he told my mom, and we had a big blowout fight that evening. It was never the same after

that. When I turned 18, my mom and I had a big argument and that night I left the house for good. Are your parents accepting now? It has taken my dad some time. My mom has changed a lot, actually. She’s always greeting my boyfriend, asking if he has eaten, how we are, etc. My dad is starting to talk to my boyfriend, too. They thought that I was going to be physically attacked and discriminated against because I was gay. They didn’t want me to suffer. What are some of your hobbies? My boyfriend and I love trying different kinds of beer, so we go to beer tastings and test out various microbreweries around town for fun. We’re just as comfortable staying home and watching Netflix, too.

JULIE*

How was your discovery of your sexuality as a lesbian? My journey was long, difficult, and convoluted. I identified first as bisexual because I didn’t want to completely shut out the possibility of being with men.

But when I was with men, I felt this barrier, like a knot in my stomach, and I didn’t know why it was there. My feelings were limited. I tried to push through it but I just couldn’t be completely free. When I finally chose to be with a woman, it was the first time in my life that my stomach stopped hurting. I knew then that I was a lesbian. What is it like being Asian-American and a lesbian? Well, being both a minority and identifying differently on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, I am a minority of the minority. If I were to travel abroad, my first question about the country would be regarding racial discrimination: are they racist there? My second question would be regarding inclusivity and openness around my sexual identity: can I come out to them? Will I be arrested or held in custody if I were to have an affair with anyone? These are legitimate concerns for our community when we consider travel opportunities and where we will feel comfortable and be welcomed around the world. *Julie shared with Asian Avenue in anonymity.

GLOSSARY & FAQ

LGBTQIA+ - Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and Ally. The plus sign refers to other identities not mentioned in the acronym. TRANSGENDER, OR TRANS – an umbrella term for individuals who do not align with their sex assigned at birth and who have chosen to live their lives as the gender they feel better represents who they are inside. SEX - the biological and anatomical traits that can make an individual “male” or “female.” GENDER - the socially-constructed roles,

behaviors, activities, and attributes of men and women. How people operate in or out of these roles is gender expression. GENDER IDENTITY - a deeply felt and experienced sense of one’s own gender. For transgender individuals, they often identify as a different gender than the sex they were assigned at birth. This is the purpose of acknowledging one’s preferred pronouns. Some trans individuals will also use preferred pronouns “they, them, theirs” if they do not identify along the gender binary of “he or she.” SEXUALITY/SEXUAL ORIENTATION the romantic, physical, and emotional attraction towards other people.

Note: sex, gender, and sexuality are different concepts. A person may be transgender, but that does not mean they are gay. TRANSITIONING - the process some transgender people go through to begin living as the gender that they identify as, rather than the sex assigned to them at birth. The process of transitioning can happen through hormone therapy, surgery, emotional, spiritual, and psychological growth, or any combination of these. Is being gay or transgender a mental health disorder? NO. It is just another way of being born. LGBTQIA+ | asian avenue magazine

What is “coming out?” When a person tells others of his or her true gender identity or sexual orientation. Is being gay or transgender a new trend? NO, these identities have always been a part of our communities. There is evidence even from prehistoric rock paintings in South Africa and Egypt. Can you change a person’s sexual orientation and gender identity? NO, it is not a choice but a central core of a person’s being. Forced conversion therapy cannot truly change a person’s sexual orientation and gender identity and can instead cause severe trauma. Why do 41% of transgender youth try to commit suicide before they turn 18?

It can be a combination of feeling wrong in their bodies (body dysphoria), being bullied and mocked by their peers, overall rejection by family and society, and struggling with accepting their true identity. There are many social resources to help support trans youth and prevent suicide. www.one-colorado.org www.suicidepreventioncolorado.org www.glbtcolorado.org/rainbow-alley/ youthresources www.sprc.org/states/colorado What injustices do LGBTQIA+ individuals face? Around the world, LGBTQIA+ individuals suffer from harassment, discrimination, assault, rape, and murder. They are bullied in school (some are even kicked out) and their families and friends may not

accept them for who they are. Governments often fail to protect these individuals from these injustices. In fact, over 33% of the world’s countries have laws that permit arrest, imprisonment, and even execution of individuals that are in same-sex relationships. One great resource for travel tips is the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association, which can be found online at www.iglta.org. Answers sourced from Dr. Karen Scarpella at the Gender Identity Center and the United Nations Free and Equal Fact Sheet. For more information and resources: Gender Identity Center, 20 Bryant St, Denver, CO 80219, 303-202-6466. *Disclaimer: There are many identity politics at play and terms change rapidly, but these are the commonly accepted terms as of now.

ASIANS AND FRIENDS IN DENVER Asians and Friends is a socially conscious nonprofit organization that provides support, information and fun for GLBTQ (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning) Asians and their friends in the Metro Denver area. According to Alan Esler, an original member and past president currently serving as vice-president, the local group formed in 1998. Tony Tien Huynh, a recent member and the new president, has added his vision for a large and vibrant chapter. His energy and enthusiasm have created synergy and helped the organization grow. He has initiated a significant presence for the group on meetup.com (www. meetup.com/Asians-andFriends-Denver). The variety of activities for this group include bowling, game nights, wine tastings,

April 2017 | Cover Story

A Valuable GLBTQ Resource

By Timothy K Wilson

gourmet meals, potlucks, holiday parties, and group outings to places such as Comedy Works and the IMAX Theatre at Denver Museum of Nature and Science. One of several offerings in April will be a trip to see the comedy Coping with America by Tea Theatre Esprit Asia at the Gallery Theatre, 1400 Dallas St. in Aurora (Sat., April 29, 7:30 pm). The group’s extensive website afdenver.net features a calendar of events, and a wealth of additional information. There are resources and videos to help those who identify as GLBTQ to “come out” to family, whether they come from Burma, Cambodia, China, Hmong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia, Muslim, Nepal, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Timor or Vietnam. No matter what one’s race, ethnicity, nationality, language, religious/spiritual upbringing or cultural background,

do. My favorite thing is seeing people having fun and networking.” In September 2012, the Denver chapter hosted the International Friendship Weekend (now known as “ifCON”). Alan Esler attended his first international conference in 1997, and has been every year since. As Chairman of the planning committee for ifCONDenver2012, Alan reminisced, “I was pleased to show off our great city and state.” He explained further, “This event is like a big, annual reunion of friends, and we want to bring that same feeling to our local chapter. Sometimes Asians feel marginalized in the larger gay community, but Asians and Friends Denver offers a wonderful opportunity to make many meaningful and longterm friendships.” For additional information, contact Asians and Friends Denver through their Meetup link or the chapter website.

“coming out” is an individual process for each GLBTQ person. The desire for love and support from family, however, is a basic human need that may not come easily for some families. The website also has another important resource area called, “Education, Awareness, Resources and Programs.” Tony explains his vision as president, that “Asians and Friends Denver will be the largest, most creative and open-minded Asians and Friends chapter in the U.S., with many interesting and informative events.” When asked what inspired him to get more involved and to take a leadership position, he replied, “Because I am interested in seeing our Denver chapter grow, and in being able to help Asians new to Denver learn American culture.” He added, “I want to bring different cultures to the group with new ideas and more entertaining things to

A few weeks ago, my friend made a municate one thing to people, it’s that principle. Even in my discipline and scoldtimely declaration on his Facebook page every person is worthy of love.” ing, my love for them is unconditional. on his special day: All of us are searching for a sense of Tim summarizes this thought wonder“Today is my birthday and I wanted to belonging. It’s not just those in the LGBT fully on his website: share something with you… Yes, I am community. It’s not just Asians. It’s not For those of you out there who feel like gay.” just teenagers. We all are in a quest to there are parts of you that are too terrible Tim Ouyang, the lead singer of a Con- find community and purpose. Tim adds, or shameful for God, those of you who temporary Christian music group called “Love is such a simple idea.” And yet, have cried yourself to sleep wishing you “Tim Be Told”, has been a respected friend we often make it so complicated by our had been born a different person … unof mine for several years. Their band has rules, filters, and structures. “Jesus taught load that heavy weight you’ve been carrystayed at our home while ing. It doesn’t matter if you touring the country with are gay, straight or someheart-warming perforwhere in between; your mances. We’ve shared story and journey matter several meals and conregardless of how different versations – with one of or abnormal it appears. my favorite memories of Anyone who tells you us trout fishing together God hates you has nevup in Nederland (Boulder er really known him. The County). devil’s greatest deception By Tom Shieh So, I was a bit surprised is convincing us that only to see his public ananother person can deternouncement. First, I had mine when we are worthy never suspected it. Addiof love. But no mortal man tionally, I was intrigued or institution is the gateto see how people would keeper to the heart of God. respond to this display All that he asks of us is this: of transparency and “Come to me, all who are courage. Immediately, weary and burdened, and the following thoughts I will give you rest.” came to mind: How does Tim Be Told’s goal withthis affect his belief sysin the music industry is to tem within his Christian promote the themes of faith? How will this affect honesty, hope, redemphis music and role in the tion, and change. I beindustry? Surely, people lieve Tim is certainly crewould come to love and ating a platform for these embrace him … right? discussions to take place. Tim shared that since For more about Tim and he’s come out publicly, his music, please check TIM OUYANG, lead singer of a Contemporary he’s had a platform for out: timbetold.com. Christian music group called “Tim Be Told” some amazing conversations – ranging across the spectrum in terms of responses. He us to love; that’s the crux of Christianity.” mentioned that amongst Asians, there is We are taught to love our enemies, even often a “shame culture”; and so he was those that we find repulsive. particularly mindful of his parents’ reacRegardless of our religion or belief tion. Initially upset, Tim’s loving parents system, can we say that we truly love now realize the important outreach of others around us? Tim’s display of honesty. When Tim shared his belief, “The root It’s allowed many to openly express of all bad behavior is the thought that not their own feelings of isolation, loneli- everyone deserves love.” I paused quietly ness, and confusion regarding their iden- and reflected; I had never thought of it tity. As we share our dark times of pain, that way. Today, I encourage you to think hopelessness, and self-doubt, we speak about this in your own life. Connect with Tom: life to those that are going through simAs a father of three wonderful children, linkedin.com/in/tomshieh, ilar situations. I can understand this framework. My love facebook.com/tomshieh Tim says, “Ultimately, if I could com- for my children is a basic foundational

EVERY PERSON IS WORTHY

LOVE

Better Living | asian avenue magazine

Recipe

General Tso Chicken Serves: 2 Prep Time: 15 Mins Cook Time: 5 Mins

INGREDIENTS: • 10 oz. boneless skinless chicken meat (thigh or breast), cut into bite-sized pieces • ½ tablespoon Shaoxing wine • Pinch of salt • 1/3 cup cornstarch • Oil for deep frying • 1 ½ tablespoons oil • 3 slices peeled ginger, finely minced • 1 clove garlic, finely minced • 4-5 dried red chilies, rinsed and seeded • 2 stalks scallion, white-part only, cut into 1-inch lengths

SAUCE: • 2 ½ – 3 tablespoons Chinese rice vinegar • 2 ½ tablespoons soy sauce • ½ tablespoon dark soy sauce • 1 teaspoon Hoisin sauce • ¼ cup water • 2 ½ tablespoons sugar • ½ tablespoon Shaoxing Wine • 1 scant tablespoon cornstarch 20

April 2017 | Chef’s Menu

f I were to list my favorite Americanized Chinese foods, General Tso’s chicken would definitely make it to the top. In fact, I was craving this dish while watching the Netflix documentary, “The Search for General Tso,” which led me to the culinary adventure of making the dish myself!

1 Marinate the chicken in the Shaoxing wine and salt for 15

minutes. Mix all the ingredients for the sauce in a small bowl and set that aside.

2 Coat the chicken generously with the 1/3 cup cornstarch. Heat the oil for deep-frying. Deep fry the chicken until it turns light brown. Dish out the chicken with a strainer, draining the excess oil by laying the chicken on a plate lined with paper towels.

3 Heat up a wok with 1½ tablespoons oil. Add the minced

ginger, garlic, and dried chilies into the wok, and stir-fry until you smell the spicy aroma of the chilies. Pour the sauce into the wok. When the sauce boils and thickens, add the chicken, stir to combine well. Add the scallion and stir a few times, and serve immediately.

Lucky China Original Taste of Northeastern Of China. Unique, Delicious, Unforgettable.

By Samantha Quee

LUCKY CHINA 2000 S Havana St Aurora, CO 80014 Tel: 303-745-1373 Free Delivery

No delivery beyond 3 miles Delivery time: 30 to 60 minutes

Store Hours: MON: 11 am to 9:30 pm TUES: Closed WED - SUN: 11 am to 9:30 pm

SAMPLE MENU Taiwan Style Beef Noodle Beef Brisket Noodle Spicy Jumbo Noodle Beef Burrito Pan Fried Dumplings (12 pieces) Small Steamed Buns/Soup Dumplings (8 pieces) Gyoza Steamed Chicken with Chili Sauce Cashew Chicken Sweet and Sour Chicken

April 2017 | Restaurant Peek

Located in a busy shopping plaza in Aurora, the restaurant, Lucky China, has been recognized for its outstanding Chinese cuisine, excellent service and friendly staff since the opening in 2013. Lucky China is known for its insistence on only using high quality fresh ingredients. Owner Helen Cai, who has more than ten years of culinary experience under her belt, wants her patron to enjoy delicious and healthy food. Helen says, “Many of my customers say that the food we serve here reminds them of home-cooked food prepared by their mothers and grandmothers. The taste is simple and does not overpower with MSG like some other restaurants.” Bearing in mind this philosophy, Helen and her kitchen chefs make many of their signature dishes from scratch, including their Taiwan-style beef noodles, beef burrito, pan-fried dumplings, soup dumplings, and also their gyoza. Great for warming you up on a cold day, the beef noodle is prepared with beefy broth simmered over low heat for five hours. The delectable home-made noodles go hand-in-hand with the richness of the soup. The beef is tender and full of flavor, simulta-

neously sweet and salty. Popular among their American patrons, Lucky China’s beef burritos resemble Mexican burritos. Wrapped in sliced beef, fresh vegetables such as parsley and cucumber and with a thin layer of Seafood sauce, the burritos has a good balance from the crisp of the wrapper and the crunchiness of the cucumber. Xiao long bao, Shanghai-style soup dumplings, have become legendary for good reason, but so far their doughier cousins, pan-fried buns, remain much less wellknown here in Colorado. If you love soup dumplings, you need to try pan-fried buns, too. Handmade in-house, each bun is filled with juicy vegetables ground with pork, and every bite bursts with flavorful broth. The Lucky China soup dumplings are also soul-warming, soupy satchels that cannot be missed. Helen reminds guests, “Make sure not to miss our home-cooked soy milk.” This drink is an absolute delight, filled with the simple fragrance from the soya bean freshly ground each morning. Lucky China is a great destination for sumptuous and authentic traditional Chinese food. Try it today!

Golden Shanghai Asian Restaurant

● The Best Chinese Restaurant by 710 AM Restaurant Show ● The Best Chinese Restaurant by the 1430 KEZW Restaurant Show ● Voted 2007 Top 100 Chinese Restaurant in the US

1412 S. Parker Rd. A-134 Denver, CO 80231 (303) 743-7666 (303)743-9079 (303)743-8210

Q&A

with Cyril Lumboy of The Doll Life By Samantha Quee

Designer Cyril Lumboy (middle) talks about fashion on the reality series The Doll Life. The Doll Life is a reality series that follows the activities of doll fashion house, Dolldelight, run by designer Cyril Lumboy. The Doll Life features Cyril, 27, and her team as they endure and enjoy the chaos and drama of producing fashion shows at Japanese pop culture conventions while keeping up with the challenges of their personal lives. Asian Avenue magazine spoke with Cyril, who was born and raised in the Philippines. Cyril shares her experience as a niche designer, as well as her biggest learning experience from the show. Born in the Philippines, Cyril went to the University of the Philippines Diliman to study Anthropology. She then moved to the U.S. in 2011. AAM: Can you tell us more about The Doll Life and how is it different from other fashion reality shows? Cyril: The Doll Life follows my group’s adventures as the fashion house, Dolldelight, within the Japanese pop culture convention scene. It is different from other fashion reality shows because everyone in the team comes from diverse backgrounds and yet shares a love for dressing up. AAM: Do you think the show reflects the true fashion industry? Cyril: In a sense yes, as it involves the struggles of being an indie designer. AAM: What is it like being a niche designer? Cyril: It is a challenging occupation but nonetheless very enjoyable, as I am able to express my creativity through fashion.

April 2017 | Fashion

AAM: Why is it challenging? Cyril: Since the fashion is niche, one of the struggles involved is building a presence. For Dolldelight, building an online brand means reaching out to the right followers so I can find customers and successfully run my business. I am active on social media networks, whether that’s getting feedback from my followers on Facebook or posting about new outfits on my Instagram. AAM: Does your Filipino background influence your fashion style/ presentation? Cyril: Since being a Filipino means being exposed to other cultures from our neighboring countries such as Japan, Korea, and China. My style is inadvertently influenced by my home country as well as the countries around it. AAM: Where do your inspirations for design come from? Cyril: I am inspired by all things feminine, be it cute or elegant. I like anything that relates to being a girl, and how one’s appearance is easily linked with one’s style. How you dress is a way or presenting your personality and yourself to the world. As a girl, one of the ways you get to choose how you present yourself to the world is through clothing and accessories. Your outfit could be something cute and childlike, or something elegant and ladylike. AAM: How do you define fashion? Cyril: Fashion is a way to both express yourself and present yourself to the world.

AAM: Can you summarize Season 1 in one sentence, and what can the audience expect from Season 2? Cyril: Season 1 was an introduction to our group and to our adventures in the convention scene. Season 2 will mainly be about our dynamic relationships with each other as individuals and as members of the group. AAM: What is your biggest takeaway from the show? Cyril: Doing the show was a life-changing experience. Personally, I learned so much about understanding everyone’s struggles and appreciating each other’s efforts. Being on TV is a different experience in itself. On a serious note, it is the friendships that we have built during our times on set that I value a lot. AAM: What advice do you have for niche designers? Cyril: Find out what makes you happy and strive towards it. Catch episodes of The Doll Life on Myx TV! All episodes can be found on www. myxtv.com! Follow Cyril on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dolldelight.

Designer Guo Pei By YiJing Chen

As a Chinese designer, Guo Pei’s designs and dresses have always been worn by many Chinese celebrities. However, Guo Pei made a name for herself in America when she dressed Rihanna in a beautiful yellow trailing gown for the 2015 Met Gala; ‘China, Through the Looking Glass.’ She is the first born-and-raised Asian designer to be invited to become a guest member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, and was also listed as one of the World’s 100 Most Influential People in 2016. Her brand and style of fashion are influenced by Chinese culture and traditional Chinese imperial court design, incorporating silk, fur and embroidery designs. The dress that made her mark in America was the dress worn by Rihanna. It was an elaborately embroidered, fur trimmed, floor length cape and gown

that was a brilliant canary yellow with a long circular train. This piece took over 50,000 hours over the course of two years and the final product weighed approximately 55 lbs. On the red carpet, Rihanna appeared in the dress followed by a three-person entourage to hold the large train, and the dress and singer were featured on the front page of Vogue’s Met Gala Edition. In a CNN interview, Guo stated that she thinks that “dresses are meant to be worn, and that’s why designers need very good models. I think that Rihanna and that piece of work have merged together, and she has given the dress a new life.” The iconic dress that Guo designed was the eye of the ball of the Gala and captured the essence of the theme, ‘China, Through the Looking Glass.’ Since the Met Gala, she has appeared in numerous fashion shows globally

along the years. Known for her expertise in embroidery and artistic understanding of fashion she captures the essence of China in every one of her designs. She follows the themes of designs to the finest thread and gives viewers quite the culture shock. For 2016 Fall Couture, her show was following Vetements designs and gave the audience a contrast from the cool, chic, street style. Her designs for that show gave the models a look beyond costume drama; it was a high fashion look for Queens. The collection had a variety of rich colors, different fabrics, multiple layers that added dimension and brought the designs to life. From her infamous gown worn by Rihanna, Guo Pei’s designs continue to thrive globally and her unique vision with powerful taste continues to shape the world of high fashion! Fashion | asian avenue magazine

filmreview

Reviewed by Caroline Field

The Sad Wall: How Hollywood Messed Up a Potentially Great Movie

Rating: 3/10 26

April 2017 | Film Review

Director: Yimou Zhang Main Cast: Matt Damon, Tian Jing, Willem Dafoe, Andy Lau, Pedro Pascal Release Date: February 17, 2017 Run Time: 103 minutes Country: China, USA Languages: English, Mandarin IMBD Ratings: 6.3/10

ZHANG

MOU YI

If there was to be a great movie about a legend of ancient Chinese culture, The Great Wall wouldn’t be on top of the list. While there are many qualities about the film that make it stand out in the continuing box office flop epidemic in America, it utterly fails in bringing something intellectual and worthwhile to the table. From the very beginning of the movie, we can see a variety of technical faults that someone in the editing room overlooked. A shot of Matt Damon and his Chilean co-star Pedro Pascal was used twice and the pacing throughout the movie is inconsistent. Quick cuts in slow scenes and terrible music choices for tension-filled battle scenes do not make for an entertaining film. The music is unoriginal and misused in many scenes, except for one part where an important character is being honored. The CGI monsters themselves are poorly made but at least the design is interesting and they feel like they have a presence. The costumes are gorgeous and colorful, standing out against the bleakness of the Great Wall. Some of the cinematography is done very well and immerses you in the action, which doesn’t skip out on the gory situation that the characters find themselves in. The redeeming qualities of the film come from the Chinese actors themselves. They took their characters seriously and were extremely entertaining to watch. Tian Jiang, who plays Commander Lin, should have been the lead protagonist. Her character is intriguing and her tension with Damon at various points brings out her strength as an actress. It’s a shame that Damon has to be in this movie when it’s obvious he didn’t care about it. The director of the film, Yimou Zhang, claims that the film wouldn’t have made such a impact if Damon’s name wasn’t plastered on the poster. It should have been Jiang’s name on there instead. Not only that, but the film does glorify Damon’s character as a savior. Without his help, the armies at the Wall couldn’t have done some of the biggest actions in the film. Even in the climax, when it should have been Jiang’s time to shine, Damon helps her as if she can’t do it herself. Damon’s line delivery is stilted and his co-start Pascal was used as a stereotype when he waved a red flag in front of a monster like a bull. It was a disgrace to watch his performance on the screen. The focus should have been on the Chinese armies, not on Damon’s bored expression. The Chinese actors are the best part of this film, but it’s a shame that Matt Damon needed to be in the film at all. The Great Wall does no justice to the Chinese-American film industry. Maybe next time they’ll realize the potential of great actors like Tian Jiang.

aboutthedirector YIMOU ZHANG was born on November 14, 1951 in Xi’an, Shaanxi, China. He is a director in addition to being an actor. He made his debut as a director in 1987 with a film called Red Sorghum. The Great Wall (2017) is his most expensive feature film to date. He has also directed the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. His most well-known films are Hero (2002), House of Flying Daggers (2004) and Curse of the Golden Flower (2006).

RTD R-Line opens

Farewell reception for the Consul General of Japan and By Joie Ha Mrs. Makoto Ito

Left to right: Clarence Low, Christina Yutai Guo, General Consul Makoto Ito, Lily Shen, Andrea Amonick

The Regional Transportation District’s R-Line began its train service on the morning of Feb. 24 to Aurora, Denver and Lone Tree. Patrons were able to ride the line for free between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. A ribbon cutting ceremony was also held from 10 am. and 11 am. at the Iliff Station on Blackhawk Street at Iliff Avenue. The 22-mile R-Line, which runs from Lincoln Station in Lone Tree to Peoria Station in Aurora allows commuters to ride the new line to Peoria and easily transfer to the University of Colorado A-Line, which provides access to downtown Denver and to Denver International Airport. According to the RTD schedule for the R-Line, a trip from end to end takes just under an hour. Aurora Mayor Steve Hogan Last month on Feb. 17, Denver bid farewell to the Consul General of Japan and his wife. Consul General Makoto Ito started his placement in Denver in April 2015. He fostered the friendship between Denver and Japan through spreading Japanese culture and education, discussing the politics between Japan and America, and promoting the famous JET program and MEXT Scholarships. The celebration included delicious Japanese appetizers,

By Samantha Quee said his city of 350,000 has been preparing for this for a long time, with various projects sprouting up around the eight new light-rail stations that will go live Friday. That includes the burgeoning Anschutz medical complex at the north end of the line, the new Veterans Administration Hospital, a hotel at the Second Avenue stop and new developments around Aurora Metro Center Station. The R-Line, which serves 16 stations and is expected to have daily ridership of 12,000 one year after it opens, jumped from concept to reality nearly five years ago, when RTD picked Kiewit Infrastructure Co. to complete the unbuilt portion of the line through Aurora. At the time, Kiewit said it expected to finish the line in November 2015 at a cost of $350 million. speeches from prominent politicians like Governor John Hickenlooper, and an amazing performance from an opera singer. The reception was incredibly well attended by several community members, showing that Consul General Makoto Ino will be missed. To commemorate his service, Governor John Hickenlooper declared Feb. 17th Makoto Ito day.

Hong Kong Commissioner to the U.S. visits Denver By Samantha Quee The Asian Chamber of Commerce hosted the Hong Kong Commissioner to the United States, Mr. Clement Leung on March 22 at the Palm Restaurant in Westin Hotel Downtown Denver. Various distinguished guests, including former City of Denver’s Mayor Wellington Webb were present at the event. Mr. Leung presented the topic “Where China and global advantage converge”, detailing how Hong Kong progressed from a humble beginning into a major Tier 1 financial center in the world today. He says: “70 percent of transactions of the RMB are done in Hong Kong. We are also the biggest auction center for wine trade in the world.” He also shared that Hong Kong and The Unit-

April 2017 | On Scene

ed States share very close working and trading relationships. The United States is Hong Kong’s second largest trading partner, while Hong Kong is the United States’ ninth largest export market. There are also 1,400 U.S. companies and 85,000 US citizens in Hong Kong. Based in Washington DC, the Commissioner is the highest ranking representative of Hong Kong to the U.S. As Commissioner, he directs the Hong Kong Government’s efforts in promoting U.S.-Hong Kong economic and trade ties, and constituency-building activities in the United States. He also oversees the work of the three Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices in Washington, D.C., New York and San Francisco.

Left to right: City of Denver’s former Mayor Wellington Webb, Clement Leung and ACC President Clarence Low.

Hong Kong Commissioner to the US, Clement Leung

So many sakes at Uncle Joe’s

By Cory Palencia

On Saturday, Feb. 28, Thirsty Samurai and Pacific Rim Cultural Exchange hosted a sake tasting event at Uncle Joe’s Hong Kong Bistro in Denver. Guests had plenty to do as the event started with a traditional cask opening by the previous General Consul of Japan. There were performances by Mirai Daiko, a Denver-based Japanese drum group, and three different sake booths that poured and explained the differences in each bottle. Uncle Joe’s provided delicious food pairings for each round of sake, too. The cozy and lively atmosphere was perfect for celebrating Japanese culture, that

characteristics. Sakes can be cloudy, unpasteurized, aged or casked. There are clear and refined sakes, or smoother, unfiltered, creamy nigori sakes, fruit forward sakes, and even sparkling sakes. Different sakes are right for different occasions, too. The cultural exchange found in events like this is the goal of Yoon Chang, Lawton Shinsato and Mariko Quinn, the owners of Thirsty Samurai. They see a cultural renaissance coming on in Denver and want to be a part of it all. Keep any eye out for more events like this that will feature Asian and Pacific Island cuisine at upcoming cultural events throughout Colorado.

while known in the United States is not fully understood. This event aimed to educate a curious Western audience about the diverse flavor profiles in the many types of sake. The origin of the classic Japanese drink actually started in China. The Chinese invented a specific rice fermentation process nearly 7,000 years ago, predating written language. The Japanese iteration began close to 2,000 years ago when they turned sake into the drink we know today. While sake has been around for a long time, it remains as one of the least understood alcoholic beverages out there. It can be classified as a beer,

wine and also as a liquor. The term ‘Sake’ in Japan denotes any alcoholic beverage like whiskey, beer, or wine. In Japan, the word for the iconic Japanese drink is ‘Nihon-shu’ meaning ‘Japanese liquor.’ It is also called ‘sei-shu’ meaning ‘clear liquor.’ Colorado residents may be especially well versed in the diversity in beer (we pride ourselves on our knowledge and expertise on IPAs, sours and stouts), but are largely unaware of the many varieties of sake. There are six main types of premium sake: Ginjo, Daiginjo, Honjozo, Junmai, Junmai Ginjo, and Junmai Daiginjo, each with their own unique

Photos by Cory Palencia

Travel & Adventure Show featured worldwide destination experts By Samantha Quee

For the first time, the Travel & Adventure Show arrives in Denver after stops in such other major markets as Chicago, Dallas, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco/Bay Area and Washington, D.C. where the show has ran for more than a decade. The travel show was on March 18 and 19 at the Colorado Convention Center in downtown Denver. The two-day public show featured thousands of U.S. and worldwide destination experts, travel seminars, local, regional and worldwide cuisines. Celebrity travel speakers who presented at the show included Travel Channel host Samantha Brown, Emmy award-winning investigative reporter and producer and CBS News Travel Editor, Peter Greenberg and also Patricia Schultz, the author of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. The show also spotlighted exhibitors from Africa, Asia, Australia/South Pacific, Caribbean, Europe, Middle East, North and South America, Latin America as well as cruise lines, and lifestyle travel products and services. Visitors has the chance to experience four educational theaters with more than 30 educational sessions and presentations by travel celebrities on the latest trends and information—where and when to go, what to do, how to get there and more. The Denver Travel & Adventure Show also offered a variety of hands-on activities for the whole family from a real camel ride, to custom photos at the world photo booth. Mile-High Happenings | asian avenue magazine

When I Stopped Using Chopsticks By Amy Ng Growing up, I have always been extremely proud of my heritage. My mother is from Taiwan and my father is from Hong Kong. I learned how to use chopsticks when I was four years old. We celebrate Chinese New Year, the Lunar Festival, the Mid-Autumn festival , and all those ancient, traditional festivals. I know silly superstitions like not sticking your chopsticks straight into your rice bowl or whistling at night could attract ghosts, and I believe them. I would choose dumplings and rice over spaghetti and meatballs any day. I held onto my heritage so tightly that I never thought that there would be a day that using

chopsticks would feel like a special event. When I first moved out of my parents’ house, I stocked my new kitchen full of dried goji berries, silver woodears, red beans, and all sorts of other goodies meant for traditional cooking. I promised myself that I would become fluent in reading and writing in Chinese. I was still using chopsticks for a majority of my meals, and I was helping out and visiting my family multiple times a week—like a filial daughter should. Almost two years later, a lot of the same ingredients still sit in the cupboard—a different one since I’ve moved twice—waiting

to be used. And since then, I’ve spoken less and less Chinese, and my already novice reading and writing skills have become noticeably rusty. I’ve started working, so I haven’t been visiting my family as often. Sometimes, I think about how far I’ve drifted from what I thought it meant to be “Chinese” that I wonder if I was just pretending to understand my culture. Sometimes, I feel like I have lost a part of my identity. I’m starting to forget details of traditional festivals that I’ve known all my life. My Mandarin skills that I was so proud of and so determined to improve have become stagnant if not worse. The things that I had tied to who I am, so much of it rooted in my ethnic background, seemed to be getting lost as I matured. There are times when I catch myself thinking that I identified more as an “American” than “Asian American”, and I can’t help but wonder if I deserve to call myself “Asian American” if I don’t even feel like I am one. It was so easy to be connected with my culture when I was living at home and going to school where I was surrounded by it. But now that I’m all grown up and started to navigate through an everyday life that gives me limited exposure to my culture, I found that it really isn’t so easy to stay connected.

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