This episode is about being human, being present, being an artist. Teiya Kasahara 笠原 貞野 (they/them) is an opera singer, theatre creator and co-founder of Amplified Opera based in Canada. They are queer, gender non-binary and of Japanese and German roots. We talk about race, gender, identity but also about what it means to hold space, to be empathetic and to listen. It is a genuine conversation between two people of colour in an emotionally charged moment in history. We share our experiences, our reflections and the importance of opening up spaces for such difficult conversations so that we can bridge and heal collectively as a society. In Teiya’s words, we can counter systemic racism and oppression through the lens of love, honesty and honour. www.teiyakasahara.com Co-founder of Amplified Opera Founder/Head Coach of the Vocal Dōjō Special thanks to Anna Driftmier for connecting us!

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