Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Writer Sundeep Morrison tackles immigrant hopes, hate and identity

by ASJAD NAZIR

CANADA-BORN Sundeep Morrison was brought up in a Punjabi Sikh family and formed a connection to stories through her maternal grandmother.


This not only instilled a love for Indian heritage and Punjabi culture, but also led to her becoming a storyteller in own right.

She was inspired to write her one-woman show RAG HEAD, which explores Sikhs in America, and her feminist debut novel Lady Bitch Whore. The writer and performer also hosts a popular global radio show.

Eastern Eye caught up with Los Angeles-based Sundeep Morrison to talk about writing and her creative journey.

What connected you to writing?

My maternal grandmother would always share stories with me about her life back in Punjab. She was the first person who encouraged me to write.

Which of your works have given you the greatest satisfaction?

I am touring my one-woman show RAG HEAD, which is a deeply personal piece about Sikhs in post 9-11 America. I hope to bring it to the UK.

How much of your creative work is based on your experiences?

All my work is inspired by my experiences as a child of Punjabi Sikh immigrants. My solo show RAG HEAD is inspired by parents and based on actual events. On August 5, 2012, a white supremacist entered a Gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, and murdered six people; my parents are members of that Gurdwara. Since 9/11, there has been an alarming increase in hate crimes that are committed against Sikhs, Muslims and other immigrant communities.

Tell us more?

There are roughly 500,000 Sikhs in the US, many of whom have been subjected to xenophobic harassment or violence and yet more than 70 per cent of Americans don’t know about Sikhs. Set in a small American town, I play seven characters, and each of the narratives address hate, hope and the American identity.

Do you have a writing process?

I write every day. Having a structured schedule helps me stay motivated. I begin with brainstorming and know that the story will go through many permutations before the final edit.

Where do you draw your inspiration from today?

I’m constantly inspired by fellow artists. I recently attended a performance in LA of To T Or Not To T? It’s a powerful and moving solo show written and performedby queer trans, Tamil-Sri Lankan American actor and comedian D’Lo. There are so many talented POC/LGBTQIA artists who are creating thought-provoking art.

What can we expect next?

I am working on my first feature length film project.

How has writing helped you?

Writing is a cathartic process for me and helps me to confront taboos and tackle fears.

The best writing advice you got?

Write what you know.

Who is your writing hero?

Toni Morrison. Her stories speak of the human condition in a beautiful, raw and haunting way.

What’s your favourite book?

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison. She paints a vivid picture about the effects of racism.

Why do you love being a writer?

I can explore, heal and confront the deepest parts of myself through my writing.

Instagram: @SundeepMorrison and www.rukusavenueradio.com

More For You

Sukhvinder Kaur: Finding light in the tunnel of loneliness

Sukhvinder Kaur: Finding light in the tunnel of loneliness

LONELINESS can affect people of all ages and backgrounds in different ways. Sukhvinder Kaur was deeply impacted by social isolation after her marriage broke down, leaving her alone with two young children.

Despite a happy upbringing, a supportive family, and a strong community network, she began experiencing uncomfortable thoughts that didn’t resonate with her, leading to increased isolation.

Keep ReadingShow less
Ayurveda: The ancient science of balance and well-being

Ayurveda was given to mankind at the time of satyug, when the diseases though existed had not yet manifested in the physical world.

iStock

Ayurveda: The ancient science of balance and well-being

Ashwini Gurujii

Ayurveda finds it origin in one of the four Vedas, the Atharvaveda. Brahma ji propounded the science of Ayurveda and passed it on to Daksh Prajapati, who gave it to Ashwini Kumars, the physicians of devas, and they gave it to Indra.

Ayurveda was given to mankind at the time of satyug, when the diseases though existed had not yet manifested in the physical world. The level of existence was so pure and selfless that diseases were unable to manifest then. The rishis of satyug realized that in the times to come, the thoughts of people are going to become so polluted that diseases will find the required environment to manifest and then the need of Ayurveda would arise, so Rishi Bharadwaj went up to Indra Dev and asked for this divine science.

Keep ReadingShow less
Why helping ageing parents is precious

As our parents age, we embrace new roles in their lives with compassion and care.

Why helping ageing parents is precious

AS OUR parents’ health begins to deteriorate, one of the hardest things in life is watching them age. Some can no longer walk for more than 10 minutes, and their memory isn’t what it used to be. There are also hidden complications associated with ageing.

I grew up in a working-class family. My dad was named Simba when he lived back in Zanzibar, Africa. He swam in the open ocean and ran for miles. The joinery skills he learned from his father have been passed down to my brother and me. My mum worked long hours sewing and in factories to provide for us, ensuring we had everything we needed. She also taught me never to rely on anyone for anything, which has shaped me into the strong, independent woman I am today.

Keep ReadingShow less
Spring-clock-change-iStock

Circadian rhythms regulate physiological processes in living organisms, including plants, animals, and even bacteria. (Photo: iStock)

How the spring clock change impacts sleep and health

EVERY YEAR, about a quarter of the world's population adjusts their clocks for daylight saving time (DST).

While it may seem like a small change, some experience fatigue, irritability, and brain fog in the days that follow. For night owls, the adjustment can take weeks.

Keep ReadingShow less
Reconnecting with lost Eid traditions

Bring the past into the present for a richer celebration

Reconnecting with lost Eid traditions

EID is a joyous time filled with unity, reflection, and celebration.

While the essence of the celebration has remained unchanged across centuries, the way this special day is celebrated has evolved, with many older traditions being replaced by modern practices and technological advancements.

Keep ReadingShow less