On New Year's Day 2022, Saint Louis-based anchor Michelle Li wrapped up a segment on holiday food during a newscast. After reading the list, Li said on-air,

“I ate dumpling soup. That’s what a lot of Korean people do.”

Following the newscast, Li’s station KSDK (5 On Your Side) received a voicemail from a viewer who said Li’s comment was “inappropriate,” complaining that Li was “being very Asian” and “annoying.” The caller mentioned if a white anchor were to say something similar, they would get fired and that Li "can keep her Korean to herself".

Li played the full voicemail for her followers on social media.

“We should all be allowed to bring our full humanity to the table and this is what happens when you’re perceived as perpetually foreign,” Li wrote.

Li’s post spawned an overwhelming amount of support and solidarity, leading to the formation of the Very Asian Foundation.

Dr. Sherry C. Wang captured the essence of the moment-turned-movement best.