Taking up space is harder than it seems. Sure, it might sound as simple as showing up, arriving on time, or breathing in a room's shared oxygen, but when you belong to a group that is often pushed aside, othered, or forced to feel small, taking up space can be a transformative act, radical even.
When asked about the notion of belonging for APIA Heritage Month, several rising actors, musicians, and creatives described to POPSUGAR that desire to take up space in an industry that is notoriously (and oftentimes purposefully) impenetrable. Generation star Lukita Maxwell spoke to us about the "beauty and power in solidarity," singer Alex Aiono stressed the importance of intersectional activism, and Mighty Ducks actress Swayam Bhatia beautifully spoke about "stepping into an American vision."
Many also touched on timing. In spite of growing violence and racism toward the APIA community, now is the time for these talented individuals to speak up, pursue their dreams, and express joy in excess. "In this industry, it is time for us to not just wait to be recognized," actress Sydney Park said. "We have to do the work interpersonally and lift each other up."
Ahead, get to know 15 up-and-coming APIA stars, and read their words on identity and inspiration.
Editor's note: We at POPSUGAR choose to use the term APIA to represent the Asian and Pacific Islander American community. For this particular story, you will find the acronyms APIA and AAPI used interchangeably by the activists we spoke with, depending on how they chose to identify. Read more from our editors on the subject here.
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