The United States is going through a massive reckoning and a crucial awakening regarding racial injustice in the middle of a global pandemic. Suffice it to say, it can be overwhelming for many of those who have been bearing the brunt of the struggle for many years leading up to this particular moment. In another light, perhaps they've also been primed to be stalwart leaders and eye-opening educators to help uphold the rest of us who are playing major catch up to assist in the work. In this episode, Minji sits down with her former Public Health co-worker and now public defender Quoc To. Quoc is a Sacramento trial lawyer with a tremendous heart for social justice and a unique perspective as a Vietnamese refugee who grew up as a minority in the complex racial American landscape. His clients come from a range of backgrounds and varying levels of privilege or disenfranchisement. Quoc walks Minji through his work going to defend the defenseless and vulnerable in the criminal justice system. He reflects on the significance of this moment and the many layers of history, policy, and cultural influence that has brought us here. Together they unpack their personal biases, their resolve to do what they can, some strategic ideas of impact, and how to show up in their respective ways in the fight for justice. 

This week's guest:

• Quoc To

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Music included in this episode is "Uzutrap" from by Uzuhan

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This podcast is part of Potluck: An Asian American Podcast Collective

Produced by @marvinyueh

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Don’t miss Chinese Republicans, a new play from Alex Lin!

Coming to the Roundabout Theatre Company this winter, Chinese Republicans is a biting new satirical drama from Alex Lin, directed by Chay Yew, following three high-powered businesswomen who meet for lunch every month to discuss their latest career triumphs, as they’ve done for decades. But the group is jolted when Katie, a bright-eyed 24-year-old new to the workforce, joins to navigate the world of corporate finance. As each of the women attempts to steer Katie towards what they’re certain is best, they’re forced to grapple with how much they already have and are willing to sacrifice to climb the corporate ladder.

Tickets for Chinese Republicans on sale now!