NOTE FROM TED: This talk contains a discussion of addiction, assault, and suicidal ideation which may be upsetting to some viewers. While some viewers may find this talk helpful as a complementary approach, please seek professional help if you are struggling. This talk only represents the speakers’ personal experiences and understanding of trauma and healing. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdf

Domestic violence is an issue that that is still prevalent in communities today. But amongst Asian American Pacific Islander women who are domestic violence survivors, there can be additional barriers. It can range from cultural guilt and shame, language barriers when they are seeking proper avenues for support, and/or not knowing where to seek support in the first place, to name a few. Victoria and Maryanne bravely shared their lessons learned as domestic violence survivors as AAPI women. Victoria is a recent graduate from Boston University. She has aspirations to be a lawyer for domestic violence victims. This inspiration stemmed from her personal experiences as a domestic violence survivor. Currently, she is the community service chair for Taiwanese American Professionals.

Maryanne is a 34 years old first generation Taiwanese American. She is a serial entrepreneur who is passionate in educating the AAPI community about Mental Fitness and the Gut Brain Axis. She hopes by sharing her story so that she can inspire others to share theirs too. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx