Linda (Swee Lian) Wee

I wish it weren’t the case, but due to ongoing litigation, I am limited on what I can currently discuss. All I can say is that I am representing many like myself who have experienced vicious and targeted attacks simply due to our race and ethnicity. 

It started when I applied for a promotion for a newly formed position with responsibilities that I was already performing. But I learned it was given to an individual with no related experience. Instead, the explicit reason given for her fit for the role was that she was “born near London, England.” I couldn’t believe it. Was my race and ethnicity the reason I was denied the promotion? I was born in Singapore and am of East Asian descent. I suddenly felt like an outsider in my own workplace.

When I tried to discuss the issues with my superiors, including going through the formal process of a college-appointed panel, my request for an environment free of discrimination and harassment was denied. And that was just the beginning. The retaliation was relentless and ongoing, the details of which will be shared in court. It’s been a long and difficult process. I am grateful for my husband, who has listened and fully supported me through this ordeal. But not everyone has someone to turn to. That’s why I want to speak out and encourage others to do the same.

For too long, too many people have assumed Asians are subservient and will not speak up when they experience injustice. But let us teach new lessons to those who discriminate against us. More of us can and need to speak up and stand up for ourselves. It’s not easy, and it feels surreal to be writing even this. But I hope my story gives hope to those of you who have faced similar trials.