Amy Qi

“Double Double”- Parents would enroll their kids into Chinese school while they also attended school. It meant learning English to communicate with those around you, but also learning Chinese to be able to communicate with family, as well as to build a closer tie to one’s Chinese heritage. However, learning multiple languages meant double the school work, which could be quite taxing for kids at such a young age.

“Lunchtime Worries” – There is often a fear and embarrassment in bringing Chinese food, because of the prominent smell. This often led to students being bullied or teased for their food, and as a result, rather than bringing home cooked food, one would feel pressured to bring something “more acceptable” or “western” in order to fit in.

“Personal Translator” – Knowing English better than your parents sometimes meant taking on responsibilities early at a young age in order to help them with documents, taxes, or even something as simple as ordering a pizza.

“Where do your roots lie?” – When it comes to sports, something like the Olympics, there can be differing opinions on which country one would want to win. Anna cheers for Canada, yet her family cheers for China, but why not cheer for both?

“Lantern Drop” compares the celebration of the Lunar New Year and Western New Year. Growing up amongst different cultures can mean double the holidays – countless celebrations to embrace with family and friends.

“To The Market!” – illustrates a contrast between two different markets – a Chinatown market, and a more western supermarket. Here, Anna shops between the two – embracing the foods that both cultures have to offer.

“All You Can Eat”- Anna celebrates her birthday with a potluck! She is surrounded by her friends and family, and different Western and Eastern dishes.

“A wedding of identities” – Nowadays, some couples incorporate a mix of both Western and Asian traditions in their weddings. Here, Anna embraces her Chinese culture, and dons the Qipao, a red dress that is traditional in Chinese wedding culture, while the traditional western white dress is worn for reception. Bei and Bea, no longer two separate identities, have become one.

“From Me to You” – Anna passes down her companion to her child, in hopes that she too embraces the best that both have to offer, and to take pride in where she comes from. What was once two separate identities, have become one – Not entirely the same, but something new. Entirely unique and special. Truly, encompassing the best of both worlds.

Best of Both Worlds