Raging Asian Women make themselves heard through traditional Taiko drumming

In celebration of Asian Heritage Month and Pride in Canada, a group of pan-Asian women and non-binary drummers called Raging Asian Women (RAW), are making themselves heard through the traditional performance of Japanese Taiko drumming, one of the few ensembles of its kind.

In Japanese, “taiko” literally means “drum,” first used in ancient Japan over 2000 years ago. However the term has also come to refer to the wider art of traditional and modern Japanese drumming, with a mix of various technical rhythms, forms and instruments.

The origins of RAW lay in “trying to fight against stereotypes of Asian women as submissive or quiet or powerless,” said Jody Chan, one of the drummers of the group.

Y.J., another member of the group, said that “there’s still moments where I just feel a sense of pride and connection that I don’t think I feel anywhere else” when performing or rehearsing.

Asian Heritage Month recognizes the contributions and influence of Canadians from diverse Asian backgrounds to the nation’s history, culture, and achievements. Started in the 1990s, the Government of Canada officially designated the month of May for celebrations in 2002.

A recent survey released by the Chinese Canadian National Council Toronto Chapter (CCNC) and Project 1907 showed that reports of anti-Asian incidents last year saw a 47 per cent increase from 2020.

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