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Axios
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Axios
AAPI history gets the superhero treatment in graphic novel series
"Fighting to Belong!", a graphic novel series chronicling Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander history, released its second volume Thursday. Why it matters: Over half of Americans can't name a significant event or policy related to Asian Americans, according to the nationwide STAATUS Index released earlier in May. Meanwhile, 1 in 4 Americans has no personal relationship with a person of Asian descent, often basing their views on what they hear from politicians, social media and cable news instead. State of play: "Fighting to Belong!" published its first volume last February, introducing readers to a group of middle school protagonists who revisit key moments in AAPI history. Spearheaded by The Asian American Foundation, headquartered in San Francisco, the planned three-part series aims to bring forgotten chapters to life for young children, though it's also easily accessible for adults. What's inside: The second volume covers events of the 20th century, ranging from the Philippine-American War and Japanese American incarceration during World War II to history-making lawmakers like Dalip Singh Saund and Patsy Mink. Bay Area-related incidents include the case of Wong Kim Ark, anti-Asian violence during the Driving Out period, the Delano Grape Strike and the fair housing push in San Francisco's Manilatown. Other notable figures covered in the book are surfing pioneer Duke Kahanamoku, actress Anna May Wong, civil rights activist Fred Korematsu and social justice leader Grace Lee Boggs. The big picture: The series, a partnership with Third State Books, is written by Amy and Alexander Chang and illustrated by Louie Chin. The first volume traced early AAPI experiences during the 18th and 19th centuries. Each book comes with a curriculum guide developed by The Asian American Education Project for educators who want to bring its contents into the classroom. What they're saying:"This is the history my generation was never taught in school — and the one our children deserve," Stephanie Lim, Third State Books co-founder and CEO, said in a statement.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
City of Seattle, TAAF, Amazon, and CIDBIA Announce New Ambassadors Program to Improve Neighborhood Safety and Support Economic Revitalization in the Chinatown-International District
Mayor Harrell announces a combined $1 million investment by the City, The Asian American Foundation (TAAF), and Amazon to improve blocks, businesses, and lives in the heart of the historic district. C-ID Ambassadors Program marks launch of "TAAF Cities" initiative to catalyze cross-sector collaboration to support Seattle's AAPI communities; Amazon joins as a founding partner. SEATTLE, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a shared effort to support safety, economic revitalization, and community well-being in some of Seattle's most historic and culturally rich neighborhoods, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, The Asian American Foundation (TAAF), Amazon, and the Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area (CIDBIA) today announced the Chinatown-International District (C-ID) Ambassadors Program, which will launch on June 1, 2025. Rooted in community care and cultural competency—and modeled after other successful ambassador programs such as the Downtown Seattle Association MID Ambassadors, Ballard Alliance Ambassadors, and the city's Downtown Activation Team—the C-ID Ambassadors Program will train neighborhood ambassadors to serve Japantown, Chinatown, and Little Saigon. These teams will work on the ground, block by block, to assist small businesses, welcome visitors, and foster safer, more vibrant neighborhoods. The program is made possible by a $1 million combined investment over two years from the City of Seattle and TAAF, and represents a growing commitment to deeper, place-based collaboration between public institutions, philanthropy, and community organizations. This announcement also marks the launch of TAAF's new "TAAF Cities" initiative to spur historic public and private investment to strengthen cities with large Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) populations. Amazon is a founding partner of the initiative. "TAAF Cities" will bring together local community, government, business, and nonprofit leaders to develop innovative, community-rooted solutions that promote economic opportunity, safety, and cultural pride. Seattle, a major cultural and economic hub with some of the nation's oldest and most vibrant AAPI communities, was chosen to kickstart the effort. As part of "TAAF Cities," several partners are stepping up to further bolster the futures of the historic C-ID: Amazon has committed $250,000 to Friends of Little Sài Gòn to support economic development and public safety programs in the area. Amazon employees will also participate in community clean-ups across the district. In addition, Amazon has made a $250,000 commitment to bring the C-ID Night Market back to the district for three years. As part of National Small Business month, the City of Seattle and TAAF are also supporting AMPLIFY: Chinatown-International District, an initiative led by Intentionalist, an online platform that encourages and incentivizes people to spend intentionally in support of brick-and-mortar small businesses. The AMPLIFY: Chinatown-International District campaign is engaging a cross-sector coalition of partners to promote and support local businesses in Chinatown, Japantown, and Little Saigon throughout AAPI Heritage Month and beyond. Members of the public are encouraged to come to the C-ID on May 17 and use the free AMPLIFY: Chinatown-International District small business pass to explore and enjoy special promotional offers at 35 local businesses. Together, these investments reflect a growing movement of coordinated action in Seattle—led not by any single entity, but by a shared commitment to preserving the cultural heritage, economic vitality, and community spirit of the C-ID. "This program represents exactly the kind of public-private partnership we need to uplift and renew Seattle's historic neighborhoods," said Seattle Mayor Harrell. "With dedicated ambassadors on the ground, we are investing in safety, belonging, and visibility for one of our city's most culturally significant communities. It's about ensuring everyone in Chinatown, Japantown, and Little Saigon—business owners, workers, residents, elders, and visitors—feels seen, supported, and safe." "I am thrilled about this coordinated initiative to support economic revitalization throughout Seattle's cherished Chinatown-International District," said Seattle City Councilmember Mark Solomon (District 2). "The C-ID is a one-of-a-kind cultural hub, rich with tradition and deeply rooted in Seattle history. Its economic vitality is something that needs to be prioritized, supported, and showcased as a reflection of the City's ongoing commitment to its business community and its diverse neighborhoods." "The Chinatown-International District is not just a neighborhood—it is a cornerstone of Asian American history and culture in Seattle," said Norman Chen, CEO of The Asian American Foundation. "TAAF is proud to partner with the City of Seattle, CIDBIA, Intentionalist, and local leaders such as the Chinese Information and Service Center (CISC) to invest in and build solutions that are community-led and people-centered. By funding this ambassador program and launching our TAAF Cities initiative, we are helping ensure the C-ID's renewal is rooted in care, dignity, and long-term resilience. This program is made possible by the generous support of our partners like Amazon, who alongside TAAF will be making a series of co-investments in Seattle's Chinatown-International District to advance safety, belonging, and prosperity." "Thanks to the incredible partnership between TAAF and the City of Seattle, we are showing what it means to truly invest in the C-ID," said Tuyen Than, Executive Director of CIDBIA. "This program goes beyond traditional approaches to community safety. It's about creating a visible presence that makes our streets feel more connected and cared for. We're proud to lead an effort that reflects the values of this neighborhood and responds to the daily needs of our community. Together, we're strengthening the C-ID—one block, one business, one life at a time." "The Chinatown-International District is a vital part of Seattle's cultural and economic fabric and Amazon is proud to support the C-ID Ambassadors Program as part of our contributions to the revitalization of this important neighborhood," said David Zapolsky, Chief Global Affairs and Legal Officer at Amazon. "Our investments in Friends of Little Sài Gòn and to revive the C-ID Night Market reinforce our commitment to fostering economic development, public safety, and cultural celebration." "AMPLIFY: Chinatown-International District harnesses the power of collective action to elevate the people and stories behind the small businesses at the heart of Chinatown, Japantown, and Little Saigon," said Laura Clise, Founder and CEO of Intentionalist. "C-ID small businesses are places where generations of families celebrate special occasions and people connect over a delicious meal to experience a diversity of cuisines and cultures. By intentionally supporting C-ID small businesses today, we're investing in a more vibrant, connected, and resilient community for years to come." "Public safety isn't just about enforcement—it's about showing up," said Yenvy Pham, James Beard Nominee and owner of Hello Em and Pho Bac. "Sometimes a simple, respectful interaction can shift behavior and set the tone for our shared spaces. Safety Ambassadors help create that culture of everyday accountability, and as a small business, we see the difference it makes." "The Chinatown-International District is an incredibly important economic and cultural hub and a key neighborhood for our Downtown Activation Plan," said Markham McIntyre, Director of the Seattle Office of Economic Development. "By bringing together public institutions, local organizations, and philanthropies, we're investing in safety, economic growth, and preserving this neighborhood's rich heritage. I'm excited to see the proactive, welcoming approach this Ambassadors program will add to the C-ID." ADVANCING SAFETY THROUGH THE C-ID AMBASSADORS PROGRAM In the wake of the rise in anti-Asian hate during the pandemic, safety remains top of mind for many Seattleites. According to a 2024 TAAF survey of 1,000 AAPI adults residing in the Seattle metropolitan area, almost 2 in 5 (38%) respondents were a victim of an anti-Asian incident in the previous 12 months, and nearly 3 out of 4 reported changes in their day-to-day behavior out of fear of being a target or victim of anti-Asian hate. In addition, 54% of respondents said that "public safety" was either a "major problem" or "somewhat of a problem" that needs to be addressed. To promote safety and belonging, the CIDBIA will train teams of culturally competent ambassadors to improve the day-to-day experiences of all people residing, visiting, and working in the C-ID. Modeled after successful programs in other cities and neighborhoods, trained ambassadors will: Walk and watch over neighborhood blocks to ensure they are safer, cleaner, and cared for—while also providing a visible, welcoming presence by providing directions, assisting visitors, and reporting issues; Assist the C-ID's small businesses by deterring disruptive behavior, responding to quality-of-life concerns, and helping business owners and entrepreneurs access city services and support networks; and Offer de-escalation and engagement services to individuals, responding with empathy and professionalism when residents or businesses encounter individuals in crisis. Rather than leaving businesses and residents to navigate these situations alone, ambassadors will act as trained "community-first" responders to help restore peace and dignity to public life in the C-ID. About the City of Seattle:The City of Seattle is committed to building One Seattle—a city where everyone belongs and has the opportunity to thrive. The City is working to create a more equitable, connected, and resilient Seattle by addressing long standing disparities in housing, access to opportunity, and neighborhood investment. The city provides holistic supports in the C-ID including increased cleanings and outreach through the Downtown Activation Team, funding for public safety and community capacity building staff, improved lighting, direct small business support, and partnership that advance long term economic and community development efforts such as the C-ID Vision Group and Friends of Little Saigon's Pho Dep initiative. About The Asian American Foundation (TAAF):TAAF serves the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community by promoting safety, fostering belonging, and advancing prosperity. Launched in 2021 in response to the rise in anti-Asian hate and to address the long-standing underinvestment in AANHPI communities, we invest in initiatives to combat anti-Asian hate, integrate AANHPI studies into school curricula, elevate authentic AANHPI storytelling, and expand resources and representation for our communities. Through our high-impact initiatives, events, and investments in national and local nonprofits, we're creating a permanent and irrevocable sense of belonging for millions of AANHPIs in the United States. For additional information about TAAF, please visit or follow @TAAForg on Instagram, LinkedIn, X or Facebook. About the Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area (CIDBIA):The Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area (CIDBIA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the economic vitality, cleanliness, and safety of Seattle's historic C-ID neighborhood. About Intentionalist:At Intentionalist, we believe that where we spend our money matters. Our online platform and guide connect consumers to local businesses and the diverse people behind them. Through our directory, guides, and events, we make it easier to #SpendLikeItMatters and support small businesses owned by women, people of color, veterans, families, members of the LGBTQ community, and people with disabilities. We build more vibrant, inclusive communities by helping consumers be more intentional about where they eat, drink, and shop. Intentionalist is a social enterprise based in Seattle, WA. To support local businesses in your community, visit Media contact: press@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE The Asian American Foundation Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Axios
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Axios
Report: Chinese Americans increasingly seen as "threat" in U.S.
More than one in four Americans believe Chinese Americans are a threat to U.S. society, a new survey finds. Why it matters: Five years after the pandemic-driven surge in anti-Asian hate crimes, Asian Americans — who constitute over 37% of San Francisco's population — are still battling harmful stereotypes and deep-seated misperceptions. By the numbers: 63% of Asian Americans reported feeling unsafe in at least one daily setting, per the nationwide STAATUS Index released May 1 at the start of AAPI Heritage Month. The same percentage said it was at least somewhat likely they would be victims of discrimination based on their race, ethnicity or religion in the next five years. By comparison, 33% of white Americans said the same. Asian Americans (40%) are far less likely than white Americans (71%) to completely agree that they belong in the U.S., and they are the least likely among all races surveyed to feel they belong in online spaces/social media and their neighborhoods. Between the lines: Anti-AAPI hate crimes in San Francisco jumped 567% from 2020 to 2021 as the coronavirus led to scapegoating and violent attacks, especially on older people. That fear hasn't abated, the survey shows, even as attention to the issue faded. Case in point: Lily Zhu, a 70-year-old Oakland resident, told Axios in Mandarin in February that while she's no longer scared to leave her house, most Asian older people in her circle stick to Chinese community spaces to avoid risk. Zoom in: This year's survey found that a record percentage (40%) of Americans believe Asian Americans are more loyal to their countries of origin than to the U.S., up from 37% last year. That's the highest since the STAATUS Index launched in 2021. Norman Chen, the Bay Area-based CEO of The Asian American Foundation and STAATUS report co-founder, called it "one of the most alarming results." About two-fifths of Americans support legislation prohibiting "foreign citizens" from certain countries, including China, from purchasing land. Stunning stat: Fewer than half (44%) of Americans strongly agree that Japanese American incarceration — the forcible detainment of 120,000 people with Japanese ancestry during World War II — was wrong. The big picture: The survey also found that most Americans continue to believe the harmful "model minority" myth of overachieving Asian Americans who are "good at math," according to Chen.
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
More than 25 percent of people say Chinese-Americans are a ‘threat' to the US, poll finds
More than a quarter of Americans think Chinese-Americans are a threat to U.S. society, a new poll released Thursday revealed. The Social Tracking of Asian Americans in the U.S., or STAATUS Index, found that 40 percent believe Asian Americans are more loyal to their countries of origin than the U.S. This comes just five years after the Covid-19 pandemic, when the U.S. experienced a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes. Twenty-seven percent said they were 'at least somewhat concerned' that 'Chinese Americans are a threat to U.S. society, especially around national security.' Meanwhile, 63 percent of Asian Americans say they felt unsafe in at least one daily setting, according to the index, which was released on Thursday at the start of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. The same number of Asian Americans say that it's at least somewhat likely that they will be subjected to discrimination in the next half-decade based on their race, ethnicity, or religion. Thirty-three percent of white Americans believe they will be victims of discrimination within the next five years. Conducted between January 22 and February 25, the survey included 4,909 respondents over the age of 16. Forty percent of Asian Americans, compared to 71 percent of white Americans, completely agree that they belong in the U.S. They are also the least likely to believe they belong in online spaces, on social media, and where they live. Roughly two-fifths of Americans back legislation banning foreign citizens from some countries, such as China, from buying land. Forty-four percent of Americans strongly agree that the internment of 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II was wrong. The CEO of The Asian American Foundation, Norman Chen, a co-founder of the index, told Axios that 'One of the most alarming results over the past five years has been the doubling of this perception of Asian Americans as more loyal to their country of origin.' 'It questions the loyalty and patriotism of Asian Americans in this country,' he said, adding that the poll also found that most Americans still believe the myth of the 'model minority' — that Asian Americans are overachievers who are 'good at math.' Following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza, the U.S. has seen rising antisemitism, anti-Arab American, and anti-Muslim incidents hit the headlines, removing focus from anti-Asian hate crimes, the outlet noted. According to the poll, 42 percent of Americans can't name a famous Asian American, with Hong Kong actor Jackie Chan being named by 11 percent, Bruce Lee by six percent, Kamala Harris by four percent, and Lucy Liu by three percent. However, the index also found that almost 80 percent of Americans back specific efforts to uplift Asian American communities and roughly 41 percent support legislation that Asian American history be taught in schools.
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Over 25% of people in the U.S. say Chinese Americans are a threat
A new report sheds light on perceptions of Asians in the U.S. More than 1 in 4 Americans say they are concerned that Chinese Americans are a threat to society and national security, according to a survey conducted by The Asian American Foundation, a nonprofit group that focuses on combatting anti-Asian hate and providing educational resources. The study also found that 40% of Americans believe Asian Americans have more allegiance to their countries of origin than the U.S. — doubling since 2021. 'There is a growing perception that Asian Americans are more loyal to their countries of origin than to the U.S.— a reflection of the rising belief in the 'perpetual foreigner' stereotype,' Norman Chen, CEO of The Asian American Foundation, said in a news release. The STAATUS, or Social Tracking of Asian Americans in the U.S., Index, which surveyed nearly 5,000 online responders ages 16 and older, comes as the U.S. celebrates Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Chen said the survey "also underscores a troubling and ongoing disconnect between how Asian Americans are perceived and how we actually experience life. That has real consequences for our safety, sense of belonging, and pathways to prosperity in this country." The study also found that only 44% of Americans strongly agree that the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II was wrong. It also revealed that 63% of Asian Americans feel unsafe in day-to-day spaces and fear they'll be victims of discrimination within the next five years. Still, nearly 80% of Americans support specific initiatives aimed at uplifting Asian American communities, and 41% back legislation requiring schools to teach Asian American history. Younger Americans reported that they rely on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to learn about Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, according to the study. This article was originally published on
