Dear reader,

Being crowned SHS’s 2025 Homecoming Queen will definitely be a highlight of my high school career. But having the opportunity to be one of the first Chin Homecoming Queens at Southport is an honor that I will hold dear to my heart for the rest of my life. 

Truly, this moment meant so much more to me than winning a sparkly crown or having my name in the books for future generations to see. 

At heart, this win reminded me of the importance of honoring my differences and being confident when standing out from the crowd. 

Growing up, my culture was most certainly a part of my life. I’d speak in my native language at home and beg for Burmese candies at our local Asian market. 

But when my mom encouraged me to dress in a traditional clothing set for church or eat a homemade Burmese meal in front of my friends, I was always reluctant.

At school, I grew envious of my blonde-hair, blue-eyed classmate who ate cheeseburgers for lunch and got tucked into bed every night with a wholesome storybook. 

With comparison clouding my logic and insecurity burying my confidence, the aroma of freshly-cooked Burmese dishes wafting through the walls of our home was a smell I no longer felt excited towards. And the meticulously weaved hnis (skirts) that my grandmother shipped from Chin State were now collecting dust in my closet.

Looking back at it, my heart aches when I think about how blind I was. 

I was so fixated on fitting in with my peers that I lost sight of the beauty of my culture. Instead of fighting to keep it alive, I let it slip through my fingers. 

To this day, I feel an overwhelming sense of guilt for disregarding the life my ancestors built, the rich background of my parents and the roots that connect me to them. 

But, day by day, I’m learning to better appreciate and honor my heritage. 

For one, when I strutted down the 50-yard line, fully decorated in traditional belts, purposeful jewelry and a hni beautifully weaved by someone who also hopes to keep Chin culture alive, my roots not only grew stronger, but they came to life. 

As I spun around and finally embraced the beauty of it all, my heart felt a euphoric sense of peace and fulfillment. 

Might I add, the smile I wore that night paired perfectly with every accessory. 

I just hope that little Lucy is smiling back at me, proud of herself for finally loving what she was meant to all along.

Love,

Lucy