I can't seem to remember a time before every headline, every article, and every social media post revolved around the Coronavirus. It's almost surreal what an impact it has had on every aspect of our lives, and yet it's still made out to be a joke by so many people. 

I remember on Chinese New Year's Eve, my family was eating dumplings just before midnight ( a little tradition we do) and discussing what we thought 2020 was going to bring. My grandmother always was a little superstitious, one of her defining qualities. She said something very peculiar.

Now more than ever, her statement seems to have manifested in the world. Coronavirus itself is only part of the hardships 2020 has come across. But it has brought along with it hatred, racism, and discrimination. Across the news, there have been countless cases of assault against Asian-Americans and increased usage of racial slurs. What hurt me the most though, was that when I reached out to friends and acquaintances all over the United States to share their own experiences these past two months, they reported that even they had faced racial discrimination due to the virus. 
It's easy to ignore the discrimination going on if it doesn't directly impact you. But if each person reading this made it their goal to become more aware, the impact would be huge.

Take some time this week to look into a world that isn't your own. Put yourself in someone else's shoes, and step out of the bubble you've put yourself in. It'll make a world of difference.

Declarasian isn't a news source, it's a place where people can gather to share their thoughts, experiences, and grow as a community. Taking some time to read about other people's experiences can make you just as aware as the news.

Author: Carina Sun 

We're all facing the impacts of the new coronavirus, whether you're a teenager, a parent, a worker, or a grandparent. Most notably, stock markets are suffering, people are rallying at grocery stores, and it's on every headline everywhere you look. 
While many schools and businesses across the United States are closing, more and more people are being urged to stay in their homes and leave only when necessary. And what do you do when you're "stuck" in your home during these next few weeks or months?

The answer for most people is: Netflix and Tiktok. 

Sure, that works. But to us here at Declarasian, we're looking at these extra hours each day as a way to improve our site and our blog. We believe that just because you're at home doesn't mean your time can't still go towards meaningful things. In a time so driven by the internet, it's easier than ever to still have an impact through an online presence. For us, we're taking this time to revamp our site, and deliver some fresh blog content for our readers, as well as interacting more with you guys over our social media. 

The questions that you may have now are: well what can we do?

My advice is: take a break from the Netflix series you're binging and think about what you want to focus on improving about your life. Whether it be studying for your SATs, your APs, or starting a big art project, take initiative to do it now while you have time! 

That being said, I know this is a largely teen audience and I want to say it's okay to take a break and focus on self-love and resting! That's also important, and something we forget to do when we're busy with school and work. 

P.S. if you have time and want to contribute something, send us a declaration of your own! 

​See you soon, 
Carina Sun