With Chinese Characteristics

Today, September 20th 2020, the US Goverment is set to ban certain aspects of both TikTok and WeChat. While TikTok obviously is more popular in the US, the banning of WeChat has a much greater impact on the lives of Chinese People both here in the US, and back in China. 
((EDIT: A Federal Judge has since blocked the ban, so the future legal status of WeChat in the US remains uncertain))

Almost unknown outside of Asia, WeChat is a juggernaut of an app touching all aspects of Chinese life. Incredible in features, awe inspiring in scope, it's a flagship example of the way Modern China wishes to present itself. However it's great power also creates great danger, as its data collection, censorship, and state sponsored goals threaten to spread outside of China.

Natalie and Cherrie discuss what WeChat is, it's origins, it's meteoric rise and also the many questions and dangers swirling around this Super-App. 

Until the dawn of the 20th century, Western images of Han Chinese men invariable included the Queue (辮子). The partially shaved head and long braid show up in books, drawings, and early photos. However most Americans (Even some immersed in asian culture) have no idea why the hairstyle was worn, and why it was abandoned.

Join us for a hairstyle with Chinese Characteristics, as we discuss the history of the Queue, both in the United States and China. 

New episode every other Sunday.