Akina Zhang

I was born in a special period, when China implemented the one-child policy. The policy was introduced in 1980 as a temporary measure to control China’s population growth and in response to severe shortages of capital, natural resources and consumer goods. Some social and educational problems are clearly reflected in only children. We received too much attention and protection and are mostly self-centered lacking empathy. At the same time, under the influence of the patriarchal system, many families value men much more than women. Because of the restrictions of the one-child policy, the tolerance and connivance of men by society and families is more obvious in the social background where grew up.
I immigrated to Canada with my parents when I was 14 years old, and after learning about more diverse cultures, I discovered that the difficulties and pressures faced by women surviving in society are common. My work explores these problems and pressures such as domestic violence, sexual discrimination in the workplace, and fertility issues. My work also expresses the power and energy that women exude despite it all.