In three days, I will board a plane back to my passport land, a place I’m supposed to call home. It’s not. It’s my birthplace, my upbringing, my privilege. This poem is my attempt to my 20 months serving with migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong, finding community among them, and leaving my newfound home for an uncertain one.
From MNL |
From JFK |
to HKG | |
I leave Husband, children, parents behind For better work abroad Hopes of a better income, so Shacks can become houses, Food can fill stomachs, Education can bring opportunity. |
I leave |
I arrive She waves to me, |
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“You’re so dirty.” “Stop being so lazy.” She yells at me, Hits me, starves me. Nothing I do is right. |
“You’re so American.” |
Presidential election: Presidential selection: Useless abroad – |
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“When can I get my pay, ma’am?” She doesn’t give a clear answer. I hope next month. |
“Who do I ask?” |
I miss my |
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My nose bleeds from speaking English, But Cantonese isn’t any easier. I want pansit and adobo. I miss my husband, children, parents. But here, I am. A slave. |
My mother language no longer familiar, |
“We are workers, we are not slaves!” |
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Unwelcome looks Of disdain Wherever I go The pain of always knowing I am a foreigner. |
Mistaken for a migrant worker |
We fight, we advocate, we unite If not us, who? |
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I find a new employer Because filing a case means No work, no money. I hope she treats me better – Feeds me, Pays me. |
I find my place in the space between |
Hong Kong is not home. |
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Gusto ko uwi. I want to go home. |
下一步呢? |
Created by: Jennifer Sushi Au
About the Author: Sushi is a missioner/social justice advocate/adventurer. She dedicates her life to serve with those in the margins of society and doesn’t mind the nomad life. She dreams big and lives Ordinary Adventures full of Amazing Days. She is finishing her term in Hong Kong as a Young Adult missionary with the United Methodist Church and returns back to her passport land. She has no idea what comes next but is excited!
So honored to be your friend and hope to see you when you return. You’ve done good work- harvested, planted, watered and awaits…