Choose Love Project
To raise awareness and funds to support the cause against the anti-Asian violence and discrimination
There has been a surge in Anti-Asian racism and violent attacks on Asian Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic — from vandalism, to robbery, to violence, including countless cases of murder.
Photographed by Sean Chee @seancheesecake
As a Korean immigrant, reading about a new hate crime every morning and evening has been extremely difficult and heart aching. It took me a long time to process what was going on, why it was happening, and how I should act in response.
Among the many ways to combat the anti-Asian violence, I chose to combat the rising hate with greater love. Although it is easy to be swept up by feelings of anger and hatred, I choose to focus on giving greater love, because in the midst of this world’s division and brokenness, we are called to love our neighbors and to help one another in times of need, regardless of race, gender, background, beliefs, etc.
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Mission + Vision
What we hope to achieve and how we hope to achieve it through Choose Love Project —
Through Choose Love Project, our aim is to raise awareness and funds to support the cause against anti-Asian violence. 100% of net proceeds from the products under this project will be donated to:
Supports organizations that empower and uplift the AAPI community, with initiatives such as increased community safety and support for those affected by violence.
Delivers weekly hot lunches, fresh produce, and bulk ingredients to Asian American elders in NYC while supporting local small businesses during their COVID-related recovery process.
Choose Love Project’s main product is a sticker bag of various groceries commonly found in the artist’s homes. Amidst the dark times, we want to bring you some bright and joyful energy through enjoyable illustrations while sharing our family’s culture and personal favorites!
Our sub-product is a bookmark that you may purchase by the price you wish to donate.
Hands Behind the Project
Introducing the 7 gifted and generous hands that donated their time and talents to help bring this project to life —
KEIKO NABILA YAMAZAKI
Keiko Nabila Yamazaki is a New York-based, award-winning illustrator and surface designer. Keiko’s work has been recognized by the Society of Illustrators and American Illustration, and has been featured in numerous publications, such as 3x3 magazine and Long Island City/Astoria Journal. Growing up with the Internet and television, Keiko is very much exposed to images and iconography. As a child, she loved watching many Western and Japanese cartoons, which led her to an interest in drawing and illustration. Follow Keiko’s page to show love and support — @knyamazakiillustration.
KELLY LEE
Kelly’s relationship with art started at 5 years old when she doodled and create imaginary worlds for fun. These were not necessarily "good" — but she got more serious into drawing realistically in middle school when she started carrying a sketchbook around. This was when she started mixing realistic elements with her own doodles which she guesses was a way to express herself. It helped her to see the art in every aspect of her life. Being an art major in college actually made her take a break from loving it, but last year her love for it kindled again because she revisited art as her own terms and not competing with anyone else. She still doesn't like calling herself an "artist," she just likes to draw. She believes everyone is an artist in their own way and she feels blessed that she has found something that she can use to express herself and help others. Follow Kelly’s page to show love and support — @kelleellee.
SARAH JUNG
When Sarah is not working at her corporate job, she is working on her small business called Sincerely Paperie - which all started because she really wanted to highlight the heart and intentionality that goes into a handwritten card. If you are looking for cute and minimal cards made with lots of love, please keep Sincerely Paperie in mind. Follow Sarah’s page to show love and support — @sincerelypaperie.
With each Choose Love Project order, you will receive a free postcard designed by Sarah.
EMILY WU
Emily Wu is an artist from New York City. Ever since she could hold a crayon, she has been drawing whenever and wherever she can. Art has always been a way for her to relieve stress and connect with others. She loves to design stickers and make art to bring a smile to peoples' faces. Follow Emily’s page to show love and support — @flutteringemily.
MJ KIM
MJ Kim is a designer based in NYC. Her work really comes from sudden inspiration and impatience. The best thing about being an illustrator for her is that she can translate her random thoughts to something visual. Follow MJ’s page to show love and support — @mj.dot.
JANE TRIEU
Jane Trieu is an illustrator based in San Francisco. Her illustrations touch upon her Chinese heritage with a use of vibrant colors and simple shapes. Follow Jane’s page to show love and support — @studio.trieu.
JINA YOO
Jina Yoo is a calligrapher based in NYC. When she is not studying for optometry school, you can find her lettering quotes to encourage others through her Instagram page. She enjoys writing messages in a unique and personal way that can help brighten others’ days.
Follow Jina’s page to show love and support — @createdforyoo.
Thank you for choosing love!
Although this may be a small step, we believe it is one in the right direction and we hope you will join us.
If you would like to donate directly or learn additional ways to support the Asian community, click here.
Photographed by Sean Chee @seancheesecake
