The Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) is proud to announce the publication of “Intersections: A Journalistic History of Asian Pacific America,” in partnership with UCLA’s Asian American Studies Center (AASC). 

The book chronicles AAPI history through pivotal events where AAPI journalists and AAJA members played crucial roles, often being the first to speak out. Chapters range from the LA Uprisings to the murder of Vincent Chin to the Maui wildfires of 2023. The book also features mini profiles of key figures including Connie Chung, Helen Zia and Ann Curry, highlighting their contributions in shaping AAPI history. “Intersections” illustrates the diversity of AAPI communities and histories not just within the book’s pages, but in the community effort that brought the publication together. AAJA was heartened to bring together nearly thirty members and supporters to contribute their perspectives and talents to this endeavor.  

The book arrives at a pivotal moment for journalism and academia, converging matters of truth, accuracy, and how AAPI communities can own and shape their narratives.  

Amy Wang, former president of AAJA’s Portland chapter and founding president of AAJA-Philadelphia, said: “The Asian American Journalists Association has come to be recognized as a force in the journalism industry. Less recognized is the role that AAJA members and AAPI journalists have played in recording Asian Pacific American history, which is American history. This book seeks to tell some of those stories. It’s the book I wish I’d had during my journalism career.”

Please join us to celebrate the launch of “Intersections: A Journalistic History of Asian Pacific America” on Wednesday, May 14, from 6-8 p.m. at the Portland State University’s Toulan Library. Refreshments will be served.