In our community, we’re often told that love happens after marriage—like it’s a switch you just flip once the gold jewelry comes off. But for today’s guest, that switch took work, intention, patience, and a whole lot of heart. Whether you call it arranged or love, Alka is here to tell us how she built a romance on her own terms. After hearing her story, some of you may give arranged marriages a chance, so tune in!

We vented about the ghosting and the '0 vibes' on our end last week—but what are the guys actually thinking? This week, we sat down with two single South Asian men to get the unfiltered truth about their side of the apps. We’re talking about the pressure to provide, the expectations, and why it feels like we’re all just swiping in circles. Just real talk and some much-needed perspective. Grab your cha or coffee and let's get into it!

As South Asian women, we’re often conditioned to keep our heads down and mind our own affairs. But with everything happening in the US right now—like the shooting of Alex Peretti—it’s time we finally speak up. Posting stories on IG to create awareness is a great start, but in this episode, Monica and I talk about what should come next. We’re diving into how we can move past the screen and collectively bring about real change. Tune in!

Episode Resource List: Action Beyond the Screen

1. Identify & Contact Your Representatives

Don’t just speak to your followers; speak to those who hold the pen.

• Find Your Reps: Use CommonCause.org or USA.gov to find your local, state, and federal officials.
• The Script: "I am a constituent in [Your Zip Code], and I am calling to demand an independent investigation into the shooting of Alex Pretti. I urge you to support a DHS appropriations bill that restricts ICE funding and reallocates tax dollars toward community health and VA resources instead of federal enforcement."

2. South Asian Advocacy Groups

Connect with organizations that understand our specific cultural nuances and fight for policy change.

• SAALT (South Asian Americans Leading Together): Focuses on policy change and fighting racial profiling. saalt.org
• SAAPRI (South Asian American Policy & Research Institute): Uses data and research to advocate for the South Asian community in the US. saapri.org
• DRUM (Desis Rising Up & Moving): Organizing low-income South Asian and Indo-Caribbean immigrants for social justice. drumnyc.org

3. Tangible Change: Reallocating Tax Dollars

Advocate for your money to stay in your community.

• Demand a "Clean" Budget: Contact your Senators to oppose any funding increases for ICE and CBP (Customs and Border Protection).
• Support Local Mutual Aid: Instead of federal over-policing, donate to local Minneapolis groups like Unidos MN or the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota who are providing direct support to those affected.

4. Know Your Rights (KYR)

Part of breaking cultural trauma is knowing you have the right to exist safely.

• ACLU KYR Guide: Download or print "Know Your Rights" cards to keep in your car or wallet. aclu.org/know-your-rights
• Recording Federal Agents: Remember, you have a First Amendment right to film federal agents in public spaces as long as you do not interfere with their operations.