Tia Monet: The TikTok Star Telling Her Mixed Story

Tia Monet is a biracial, Black and Japanese woman, who affectionately calls her TikTok followers "The Lovelies Gang." Through her platform, she shares her experiences being mixed race, her occasional encounters with racism, teaches Japanese, and inspires others through comedy and art. A few of her goals are to give mixed race representation, create a safe space to talk about mixed race experiences, and empower others to be proud of their heritage.

Follow her @therealtiamonet!

How has being mixed impacted you?

 I was very aware from a young age that I was not like everyone else. Whether it was being asked if my mom or dad was my actual parent when I was out with them in public, or the way kids bullied me for my Black/Asian mixed features, I was deeply ashamed of who I was as a kid.

Growing up, I never saw Black/Asian people in mainstream media, so I'm glad to live in a time now where Rui Hachimura, Naomi Osaka, and other Blasians are successful, and being seen and heard. I've grown to love who I am, love my unique appearance, and fully embrace both sides of my heritage. I hope to help others do the same.