Blood and Guts and Ice Cream Dreams

armaniwithoutthei:

I have continually battled with the hypersexualization and exotification that is unfortunately a major part of the Pinay struggle and experience.

Google search: Pinay, Filipina, or Filipino womyn and you will see exactly what I mean, womyn being objectified and seen as a commodity to patriarchal structures.  And I hear it as I walk down my block, the racial slurs couples with the crude and violent come-ons.  It fills me with fire.

I am not someone’s fantasy of an obedient, fragile, sexually submissive, Asian flower, made-to-order bride, nicely packaged and shipped over to fulfill the pleasures of men.  I have battled with this image of myself that has been configured by capitalism, patriarchy, and man; equipped by my family, my community, my people with the weaponry of truths to who I am, by my bloodline of Babaylan, Warriors, Healers, Visionaries, and Teachers who have paved the way of my Journey and raised me into empowerment.

They have reminded me that Pinay have been and continue to be rooted in the center of their communities, Mothers of our country, revered and paid homage to.  I know how powerful I am, I know that I am Goddess by birthright and my light emerges from the eight rays of sun that I carry at my core.

- Jana-Lynne Umipig

This womyn is one of my sheroes.  Kababayan Alumna Class of 2009. <3