Karolyn Pho Makes Shia LaBeouf All Grown Up

Thursday, June 30, 2011


See more images at zimbio.

At least according to the Today article on MSNBC.

And just in case you were wondering - I think Shia LaBeouf looks like the accessory - not the other way around.

Nomin Enkhsaikhan: Missing

Thursday, June 30, 2011



Whether or not she's really in any immediate danger or not - although I'm inclined to think that if you're 15 and running away with someone in their possible twenties you just might be no matter what - they have put out a missing teen alert for Nomin Enkhsaikhan who was last seen on Sunday.

It's A Panel. It's Public. It's Free.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

No really it is.


The Asian American Center for Advancing Justice will present a public panel on "Fighting to Protect Immigrant Rights: The impact of anti-immigrant measures on Asian Americans" at the Asian American Journalists Association national convention in Detroit, Michigan on Aug. 11, 2011.

Moderated by Rachanee Srisavasdi, communications director for the Asian Pacific American Legal Center, the panel will include Karen K. Narasaki, president and executive director of the Asian American Justice Center; James Ho, partner at Gibson Dunn & Crutcher and former Solicitor General and Niraj Warikoo, religion reporter for the Detroit Free Press who has recently covered racial profiling in the Detroit area by federal immigration authorities. Both the Asian American Justice Center and Asian Pacific American Legal Center are members of the Asian American Center for Advancing Justice.

Panelists will address the as yet uncovered story of the impact of anti-immigration initiatives on the Asian American community across the nation, including Arizona's SB 1070 law and similar copycat legislation, racial profiling, attacks against the 14th Amendment's constitutional guarantee of citizenship, and measures pending in Congress like mandatory e-verify legislation. They will also talk about Asian Americans and the role of immigration politics in the upcoming 2012 election.

The event is free and open to the public, and will take place on at 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 11 at the Skyline Room, Level 2, in the COBO Center, 1 Washington Blvd. in Detroit.

http://www.aaja.org/programs/convention2011detroit/panels/

Chicago Tribune + Chinglish

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Here's a portion of a review from the Chicago Tribune on David Henry Hwang's "Chinglish":


"Chinglish," surely Hwang's best work since "M. Butterfly," gets most of its many laughs from the mistranslations that invariably accompany any attempts made by Americans and Chinese to speak with each other. These sequences, based on Hwang's own experiences, are exceedingly funny: We watch "my hands are tied" become "he is in bondage" or "travel home safely" get mangled as an instruction to "leave in haste." The Cleveland businessman (played by James Waterston with a deft mix of the bland and the earnest) is actually in the business of making signs for public buildings, which adds another level of absurdity to the amusement.

By necessity, the play is performed in Mandarin and English by a mostly bilingual cast, with subtitles projected on the set. But the savvy director Leigh Silverman makes sure that everything is crystal clear to the audience, even as the characters are lost at sea.
Read it in full.

Thursday BENI: Suki Dakara

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Teddy Zee, The Hangover Part 2, And Tossing Some Salad

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

I'll be honest. I was going to see The Hangover 2. Then I decided not too. Then decided "well maybe" - and then - decided I just shouldn't see it.

At least that weekend.

But I'm still not sure if I should spend my hard eared money (which I get by tossing my parole officer's salad three times a week for a cool $300 if you were wondering, and yes, I know it's not much, but I figure it's a living and it could be worse - I might have to lick what I'd call kind of a nasty ass, and I'd rather cook for him thank you very much you dirty MF's).

Because I do struggle somedays with the roles people play and the images that are out there even though I know no one else is going to put a roof over their heads, buy them dinner, or give them peace of mind for just simple things like making sure they have money for a doctor's visit or a few extra bucks saved up in case of an emergency - when push comes to shove I'm not going to tell anyone they shouldn't be doing what they need to do to survive or to follow the path they believe will make their dreams come true.

Whatever those dreams may be.

But just like I don't have to take a job working for White People who treat me less than human or put up with racism in Corporate America - I do think some roles are just one step away from anti-miscegenation laws (at least in the perceptions they breed).

And I think we all do have choices.

I've learned a few things myself about that. Getting into bed with "the mainstream" at the end of the day might not always be the best thing.

But it's different for everyone - there's a personal tipping scale we all have - and in some ways it's also about whether or not there are real counterweights to the inane and the obscene that we sometimes see when it comes to APIA images and how we're portrayed.

From The Teddy Of The Zee

I got an e-mail from the Chief Social Capitalist down at Privy directing me to a blog post by Teddy Zee (which after reading apparently spawned this post) who's responding in part to an article by Jeff Yang.

So I thought I would post up a snippet of it here.

Having actors like Ken Jeong, Jamie Chung and Mason Lee appearing in a film that will earn enough money to break into the top 100 box office hits of all-time is certainly noteworthy. There’s no way that I would have wanted Warner Bros. to make the film in Brazil or Amsterdam and avoid any potential stereotype making situations. The benefits of having the film take place in Thailand far outweigh any of the emotional costs to our community. I know there are instances in the film that prompted negative reactions from Asian Americans. But taken as a whole, I would rather see the glass as half full and not half empty.

The first hurdle Asian Americans face in Hollywood is getting the opportunity to work in mainstream media. One of the biggest issues we face as a community is seeing our image reflected on the screen in film and television. It might not be the image you’d like to see, but being an integral part of a big hit comedy is a worthy step in the right direction. If I sound like a cheerleader, it’s because I want to support the Asian American artists in Hollywood who are pursuing their dream, who try to bring integrity to each and every job, role and project.
I guess that's it.

Back to your regularly scheduled program.

Locating The Sacred + Asian American Arts Alliance

Wednesday, June 29, 2011



I got word sent down to me from Kevin Huang (Asian American Arts Alliance) and wanted to make sure and post up here on their festival "Locating The Sacred".

Locating the Sacred is a 12-day, city-wide festival that will be held in New York in fall 2012. The festival will match artists to spaces regarded as sacred, where they will collaborate to produce their own events. Through these events, we will explore the meaning of the word “sacred” to our communities, and showcase Asian American artists as agents of change.


Twelve Days? A city-wide festival? Asian American artists of change?

And you can be a part of it too via the Kickstarter campaign?

Oh yeah - I'm definitely down for this one.

Alfa Goes Cross Country At The First Sight Of Land

Wednesday, June 29, 2011



Smooth song. Smooth voice. Smooth video.

What's not to love?

Mondega: Wish You Were Here

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

The Time Is Close: Ed Lin + Meera Nair

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

I've posted up on this before from the AAWW - but just in case you forgot.

Hope you're enjoying the summer heat! Still not sure where to go next with that short story or novel you've been working on (or not working)? Enroll in our fiction writing workshops before it's not too late! Author Meera Nair's workshop starts this Tuesday, July 5. She'll teach you how to write scenes that tug the reader forward with suspense. And novelist Ed Lin's workshop starts on July 10. He describes writing as a bizarre musical instrument that no one's ever played before. Sign up before all the slots get filled!

July 9th, No Look Pass, Outfest 2011 And I Want To Really See This MF (A Lot)

Wednesday, June 29, 2011



From the site:


NO LOOK PASS is an identity quest film that follows Emily Tay's transition into adulthood between her senior year at Harvard (where she ranks 23rd nationally for assists thanks to her signature move, the no look pass) into her first year playing professionally in Europe. Emily's Buddhist parents risked everything to emigrate from Burma in 1980 to Los Angeles' Chinatown and expect Emily to return home after graduation and comply with an arranged marriage. But Emily must follow her own American Dream, which means moving to Germany and falling in love with a U.S. servicewoman living under Don't Ask Don't Tell. After feeling like an outsider her entire life, Emily struggles to become a leader, not just a star and faces the terror of telling her parents who she really is.

The storyline of Emily's tribulations and history is told in parallel with her pursuit of two consecutive championships. Basketball is a means to an end greater than simply winning games, it is the stage upon which she works through, and ultimately declares, her strength and inherent self-worth.

Emily relies on her best friend and teammate, Katie, who follows her across the Atlantic. A white, 6'3'' diva from Maine, Katie is the yang to Emily's yin and provides considerable comic relief. Emily's two coaches — at Harvard and in Germany — likewise add color, drama and humor to the film.

NO LOOK PASS is a story about opportunity and identity, the loss that accompanies growth, and the courage required to live the life you imagine.
Get your tickets to see the World Premiere down at Outfest 2011.

Cool.

Visual Communications: Armed With A Camera Fellowship

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

From the good folks down at VCC.


APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR 2011-2012
ARMED WITH A CAMERA FELLOWSHIP


Fellowship Cultivates New Generation of Asian Pacific American Filmmakers
Applications Due July 29th

LOS ANGELES - Visual Communications is now accepting applications for its10th annual Armed With a Camera Fellowship. The fellowship fosters the education, training and professional development of up-and-coming Asian Pacific American filmmakers. In doing so, it seeks to shed light on the experiences of communities traditionally underrepresented by visual media.

The fellowship is open to filmmakers under 30-years-old of Asian Pacific descent. South Asian, Southeast Asian and women filmmakers are strongly encouraged to apply. From November 2011 to March 2012 Visual Communications will provide the support and resources for ten fellows to each to create a five-minute digital video. These resources will include:


  1. $500 cash grant

  2. Training, workshops and mentoring from industry professionals

  3. Opportunity for collaborative work with other fellows

  4. Access to equipment and editing facilities

  5. World premiere of completed film in the “VC Digital Posse” showcase of the 2012 Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival

  6. All-access pass to films, panels and events of the 2012 Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival

  7. Opportunity to network with professional filmmakers and Visual Communications staff and supporters
In the past decade, Visual Communications has supported 70 filmmakers through the fellowship. Last year’s portfolio represents a characteristic diversity of topics. One documentary traces the disappearance of a Filipino-American R&B star. Another tells the emigration story of a filmmaker’s Vietnamese father. Several narrative works explore family relationships. In one, a South Asian lesbian woman spends the Hindu New Year with her partner. In another, a Japanese woman questions her marriage to an American. Settings range from a World War II battlefield in France to a sci-fi future.

Applications are available at www.vconline.org.

The Armed with a Camera Fellowship is partially funded by the James Irvine Foundation, the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, and the Morgan Stanley Foundation.

About Visual Communications: Founded in 1970, Visual Communications has a long and prominent history promoting intercultural understanding through the creation, presentation, preservation and support of media works by and about Asian Pacific Americans.

Please contact Daina Solomon (daina@vconline.org or 213 680-4462 ext. 30) for more information.

Rocky Rivera Goes Slick Talk

Wednesday, June 29, 2011



Nice.

Dia Gets Second Place In NBC's The Voice

Wednesday, June 29, 2011



Just caught this on a-tunes (missed the show) and wanted to post up a piece of it here:

In a tough and close results show, Dia Frampton unfortunately lost the title to the first ever season of NBC’s The Voice to veteran singer Javier Colon. It was a well deserved win for Javier but we can’t help but wish that Dia had won top honors. Needless to say, she’s had an incredible run, beating out many other singers and earning herself a world of new exposure and fans. We commend and applaud her for her efforts and hope that this experience will only strengthen her career along with her band, Meg & Dia. Don’t forget to catch her and the other top 7 competitors on tour!
Tour?

Yes - you do want tickets.

Transgender, Transsexual, Just Voting, And Is It Really A "Gripe"?

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

I don't know about you, but isn't a vote a vote? And as long as someone is voting does it really matter if your national identity card doesn't match what you look like now?

It's kind of like the guy at the airport who took a look at my passport and then took a look at me, and then took a look back at my passport, to which I said "That's me", and then said back:

"It was once."

Not matter.

I still got to fly.

Economy of course.


"It is the latest in a series of gripes among members of the Trans-Female Association of Thailand which groups transgenders and transsexuals known collectively as "katoeys" or "ladyboys."

We have a big problem when we use our identity cards in banks, schools, hospitals and now when we vote," said Yollada Suanyoc, president of the 2,500-strong organization.

"The picture may show a woman but it says 'mister' on the card. Or the picture may show a teenage boy and the person now looks like a woman."

Everyone in Thailand has to carry a national ID card with them at all times from the age of 15. It is renewed every seven years [...]

But Yollada said the government had been slow to accept them and accused society of grouping transgenders, transsexuals and homosexuals as one and the same when each group had its own issues.

"The government says if they change our title and sex, it's going to make society confused," she said. "The government worries that they won't know about our past."
Read it in full.

And As A LowNote

When I hear people use the word "gripe" in describing someone else - who is talking about their own marginalization - somehow - it just seems demeaning.

Vote KERO ONE

Monday, June 27, 2011



Really. Just vote.

It's Friday...

Friday, June 24, 2011

I just felt like posting that.

Among B-Boys, Travel In Spirals, Hmong Hip Hop, And Boom Bap Village

Thursday, June 23, 2011



Friday, July 1st
“Among B-Boys” Movie Screening


2 p.m.
Hamline University: The Hub (in the same building where the Student Center Ballroom is located)
1536 Hewitt Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104
Boom Bap Village 2011

… In conjunction with…

"Boom Bap Village Breakdance Competition"

Friday, July 1st · 5pm - 10pm
Hamline University: Student Center Ballroom
1536 Hewitt Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104

$5 Entry Fee

Boom Bap Village is an all ages Hmong Hip Hop event that will take place on July 1st during the first day of the annual Hmong Sports tournament at Como Park in St. Paul. The name Boom Bap Village comes from how Hip Hop has uplifted refugee and immigrant communities that may have originated from villages. It reflects how Hip Hop has helped these members establish a voice, as well as a creative means of self-expression.

Saturday, July 2nd
Screening of “Among B-Boys” and “Travel in Sprials”


6 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION
Buetow Music Auditorium
Concordia University
275 Syndicate St. N.
St. Paul, MN 55104

Concordia University will be providing screenings of the following documentaries: “Among B-Boys” and “Travel in Spirals.”

Among B-boys was initially created as a short film. Director, Christopher Woon, has since turned this into an hour long feature documentary focusing on two main story lines, that of B-Boy Sukie and the Velocity/Soul Rivals and twin brothers, Bboys Mpact and Villn of Underground Flow. The documentary takes us geographically from Merced, Fresno and Sacramento in the California Central Valley, to Long Beach, California to as far as Tulsa, Oklahoma. It’s a multigenerational view of the impact B-Boying has had on the Hmong American community, the contributions made by these B-Boys, and the identities they are seeking to forge. For additional information, please visit the following webpage at: http://www.amongbboys.com/.

Travel in Spirals tells the story of Hmong hip-hop MC, spoken word poet, and community organizer Tou SaiKo Lee and his journey back to his birthplace of Thailand. Born on the Nongkhai refugee camp, his parents fled Laos after the Vietnam War and came to America when Tou was two months old. Taking its title from the spirals in Hmong paj ntaub, Travel in Spirals documents Tou’s journey to the source of himself and his heritage almost 30 years after he left. For additional information, please visit the following weblink: http://www.travelinspirals.blogspot.com.

Vincent Chin. (Fort Minor Remix By Model Minority)

Thursday, June 23, 2011



June 23, 2011 - the 29th anniversary of Vincent Chin's death.

A Detroit auto industry worker, Vincent Chin was beaten to death on the night before his wedding by two men. As they shouted racial slurs at him, blaming the Japanese (Chin was Chinese) for stealing American automotive jobs.

The men were later sentenced by a judge to 3 years' probation and a fine of $3000.

http://www.facebook.com/themodelminority
Video clips - "Who Killed Vincent Chin?" by Christine Choy and Renee Tajima-Peña.
Instrumental - "Kenji", by Fort Minor.

Save That Date: 18th Annual Pistahan Parade And Festival

Wednesday, June 22, 2011



Yup. Never too early to start planning for August (because as you well know July is already spoken for by booze, little miniature bombs, hot dogs, and a sprinkle of nudging the drunk people making out on the blanket next to you because you realize they're actually having sex).


The largest celebration of Filipino Americans in San Francisco is back and bigger than ever featuring the return of the popular Adobo Cook-off and balut eating contests, delectable Filipino cuisine and desserts, cultural exhibits, and the 3rd annual San Francisco Filipino American Jazz Festival. Experience the best of Filipino art, dance, music and food at the 18th Annual Pistahan Parade and Festival on Aug. 13-14 at the Yerba Buena Gardens.The two-day event is expected to draw over 60,000 people.

The Pistahan Parade will take place Saturday Aug. 13 and features beautifully themed floats and an estimated 100 colorful and entertaining contingents. The parade will begin at Beale St., march down Market Street, make a left on 4th Street, and end on Folsom St.

To commemorate the 150th birthday of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, this year's theme is "Celebrating Heritage and Heroes" and the Pistahan Parade and Festival will honor everyday heroes who have and continue to make a positive impact in the community.

...

About the Pistahan Parade and Festival

The Pistahan Parade and Festival was founded in 1994 and has been consistently held in the oval gardens of the Yerba Buena Center. The Filipino American Arts Exposition, an all-volunteer nonprofit organization that contributes to the artistic and cultural pride of the Filipino community, organizes the annual event. http://pistahan.net/

Christina Aguilera Tries To Trollsmack Dia Frampton On The Voice (And There's That White Woman Thing)

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

I was checking into The Voice and saw Dia Frampton (from Meg and Dia) do a cover of "Losing My Religion" - which was midly spectacular if you were wondering - and when the comments from Christina Aguilera came around they were somehow both condescending and - well - bitchy.

Some might say in poor taste maybe.

But don't take my words for it - take it from my friend (API woman) who txted me the following:

"See its not just me...white women be hating."

Freedom From Fear Award Winners

Monday, June 20, 2011



I didn't get a chance to put up the live feed info - but you can check out more information below:


Four DREAM students who walked 1500 miles from Miami to Washington DC to dramatize the barriers facing undocumented immigrants. Two men—one American and one South Asian—who rescued trafficked guest workers from virtual bondage. A police chief who was vilified for speaking up against local enforcement of federal immigration laws. An African American legislator in the Deep South who helped pass a model anti-racial profiling ordinance, citing the unlawful targeting of immigrants in his state. LGBTQ and undocumented youth spurring others to come out of the shadows.

These and other “unsung heroes” are recipients of the first Freedom from Fear Awards, honoring “ordinary people who have committed extraordinary acts of courage on behalf of immigrants and refugees — individuals who have taken a risk, set an example, and inspired others to awareness or action.” Fifteen winners were announced today at the 2011 Netroots Nation conference in Minneapolis, MN.

The Awards are particularly fitting on the 50th Anniversary of the Freedom Rides that helped dismantle segregation in the South, and on the heels of the Arab Spring that has shown the power of ordinary people overcoming their fear, said sponsors of the Awards.

The Freedom from Fear Award was created by philanthropic leaders Geri Mannion and Taryn Higashi as a way of “paying forward” $10,000 they received as co-recipients of the 2009 Robert W. Scrivner Award for Creative Grantmaking, presented by the Council on Foundations. Friends and colleagues contributed additional funds to meet a $100,000 challenge grant from the W.K.Kellogg Foundation, thus enabling 15 winners to receive $5,000 each and a commissioned art piece. The awards were administered and produced by Public Interest Projects (PIP).

Higashi explained the founders’ motivation, “Immigration is a very controversial issue right now. We wanted to recognize some of the incredible unsung heroes who are standing up in their communities—sometimes at great personal risk—to make this a more just and humane society for immigrants.”

The new one-time prize attracted 380 nominations from 42 states through online outreach and word-of-mouth. “We were so inspired by reading all these stories—young people risking deportation to educate policy makers, police officers who resist racial profiling, business people who challenge their peers,” said Mannion. “It’s worth celebrating how many courageous people are working to keep us strong as a nation of immigrants.”
Read it in full here.

Watch "Vincent Who" Online For Free

Monday, June 20, 2011

Passed in from Curtis Chin and now on to you.


To honor the 29th anniversary of the death of Vincent Chin (June 23, 2011), an online version of "Vincent Who?" can be viewed for free. This limited-time offer (until the end of July 2011) is brought to you by Asian Pacific Americans for Progress (APAP) and the producers of "Vincent Who?" via a new website: vincentwhomovie.com.

Also on the new site is the latest touring schedule for 2011-12, more research material on the Vincent Chin case and ordering information for your very own V. Chin t-shirts from blacklava.

Please note that this new site, vincentwhomovie.com, along with the APAP website, are the only sites affiliated with the non-profit efforts of APAP and the film's producers, including the documentary's writer/producer, Curtis Chin. Because there may be unaffiliated, for-profit sites, we encourage you to turn to vincentwhomovie.com and APAP.
Cool.

Mu Performing Arts, Josephine Lee, And Rick Shiomi

Friday, June 17, 2011




Later this month (June 29, to be exact) Mu Performing Arts will celebrate the publication of its first book.

Titled "Asian American Plays for a New Generation," it contains scripts for seven productions, six of which were developed by Mu Performing Arts.

Artistic Director Rick Shiomi says it was Josephine Lee, Professor of English and Asian American Studies at the University of Minnesota who convinced them they had a book.
More

It's Official: The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth Really Is Racist And Sexist

Friday, June 17, 2011

I'll be honest - I never actually thought UMass Dartmouth was racist before this - because I really don't know it per se - but I guess from the article down at bizjournals - it really is official because apparently they like to deny full professorships to people like Professor LuLu Sun based on their gender, race, and Chinese ancestry:


At a hearing on June 1, an MCAD hearing officer found that "school administrators ignored Professor Sun's outstanding teaching evaluations and cutting-edge research, mischaracterized her dossier as an 'embarrassment,' and indulged in every presumption against her application for promotion while extending every benefit of the doubt to male candidates for promotion," according to an MCAD press release emailed to reporters Thursday.
I still think they got off a little easy though even if they had to pay out about $350,000 (because what's wrong with an even 500K) and what's even more amazing to me is that the promotion which Sun was denied was in the Humanities Division.

Desi Nation: 10 Years After 9-11

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Caught this article and wanted to post a little bit of it up here:


Americans of South Asian descent are one of the fastest-growing ethnic groups in the country and also one of the most successful, with high education attainments and high income. Despite this story of academic and professional achievements, there are still many struggles faces by Americans who can trace their ancestry to the Indian subcontinent. With immigration a contentious issue, as well as the fallout from 9-11, South Asians have some special problems and challenges.

The latest US business and financial news as well as issues and events Sample
International Business Times spoke to Priya Murthy, Policy Director at South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT), a national non-profit South Asian organization based in Takoma Park, Maryland, to discuss these issues.

IBTIMES: How many people of South Asian descent are now living in the United States? Do Indians represent the bulk of this population?
MURTHY: According to the 2010 Census, the Asian Indian population in the U.S. has reached 2,843,391, which represents a 69.37 percent increase from 2000. The U.S. Census Bureau will be releasing data regarding other South Asian groups later this year. Asian Indians make up the majority of South Asians in the U.S.
Read it in full here.

Blue Scholars: Fou Lee

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Hot API Maleness: Jason Momoa

Wednesday, June 15, 2011



You've seen the commercials for Momoa as Conan The Barbarian.

You've wiped the drool from your mouth.

And yes, you've even had to remove your hands from your pants (notice the use of the plural form btw because why just put one hand down there?) - so you know - I figure why not add to your already creamy existence.

I Wiki you (and yes I do realize you wish Jason Momoa would Wiki you instead, but the fact of the matter is that I can't help you with that one -- but just think of me as your stepping stone to greater things):


Momoa, an only child, was born in Honolulu, Hawaii and raised in Norwalk, Iowa by his mother. His father was a Native Hawaiian and his mother was of German, Irish, and Native American ancestry. Momoa is 6'4" (1.93m) and the nephew of famed surfer Brian Keaulana.

On November 15, 2008, Momoa was attacked with a broken beer glass in Hollywood. Momoa received around 140 stitches during reconstructive surgery.

On July 23, 2007, Lisa Bonet gave birth to their daughter, Lola Iolani Momoa. On December 15, 2008, Bonet and Momoa had a son, Nakoa-Wolf Manakauapo Namakaeha Momoa. The birth was first announced by Momoa's mother on the fan forums of his official site. She said that Nakoa means “warrior” and Mana stands for “strength/spirit,” while Kaua ("rain") and Po ("dark") pertain to the circumstances surrounding his birthday (he was born on a rare bad-weather night in L.A.). He shares his other middle name, Namakaeha, with his father.
Back to your regularly scheduled T.V. program.

Wing Young Huie, If In America, Ed Bok Lee, And Mark Tang

Tuesday, June 14, 2011


Pic Above From A Ping Pong Retrospective-Northern Spark, June 4 - 5, 2011

There's really not much to say here. I think the title of the post as well as what's below kind of says it all.

Celebrate the opening of my new gallery this Saturday! I've moved to 38th and Chicago to a larger space (in a newly renovated building that has been unoccupied for 40 years!) so that I can host communal events regularly. I'm calling it The Third Place, a term suggested by my good friend Rich Lee (see definition below).

When

Saturday, June 18, 2011

8 pm: Renowned author Ed Bok Lee and film maker Mark Tang will premiere their poetry + film collaboration "If in America," about the complex relationship between history, culture, race, class, and land rights. An informal salon-style discussion will follow.

9:30 pm: Ping pong, darts, and karaoke (with guest KJ, Steph Pituc)

Where

THE THIRD PLACE
Wing Young Huie Photography Gallery
3730 Chicago Avenue South, Studio B
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55407
612-817-2771
info@wingyounghuie.com

Artist Bios

"If in America" is based on film director Mark Tang's award-winning documentary OPEN SEASON and a poem entitled "If in America" from poet Ed Bok Lee's forthcoming second book, WHORLED (Coffee House Press). Featuring vocals by Kachyia Vang and Music by Fres Thao."

Mark Tang, an immigrant from Hong Kong, is an independent Producer-Director based in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area for the past 20 years. His works has been broadcast nationally on PBS, the Movie Channel, the International Channel and in film festivals. He aspires to be a proficient storyteller in film and is interested in telling stories that inspire compassion and understanding between people.

Third Place Definition

The third place is a term used in the concept of community building to refer to social surroundings separate from the two usual social environments of home and the workplace. Ray Oldenburg (The Great Good Place, 1989) argues that third places are important for civil society, democracy, civic engagement, and establishing feelings of a sense of place.

Oldenburg calls one's "first place" the home and those that one lives with. The "second place" is the workplace - where people may actually spend most of their time. Third places, then, are "anchors" of community life and facilitate and foster broader, more creative interaction.

All societies already have informal meeting places; what is new in modern times is the intentionality of seeking them out as vital to current societal needs. Oldenburg suggests these hallmarks of a true "third place": free or inexpensive; food and drink, while not essential, are important; highly accessible: proximate for many (walking distance); involve regulars - those who habitually congregate there; welcoming and comfortable; both new friends and old should be found there.

Wing Young Huie Photography Gallery
3730 Franklin Avenue South, Studio B
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55406
info@wingyounghuie.com
612-817-2771

In Pictures: Sounds Of Justice, Live Band, And Tou SaiKo Lee

Tuesday, June 14, 2011



I got invited to this event called Sounds Of Justice and happened to get a picture of the group who was performing with local community activist and organizer Tou Saiko Lee - and let me just say for the record - they laid down some great music for the event.

If you're wondering who the above good looking men are - because you think you might want to date one of them - wonder no more:

From left to right: Tsitsy (Keys), Shawn (Drums), Tieng (Bass - who also owns a restaurant that the band practices at), and Tou SaiKo Lee (vocals).

Not pictured here, but who also played a song with Tou SaiKo Lee - was Hmong singer PK - and if you get a chance - definitely check her out because she was pretty live.

Asian Pacific Community Fund's Double The Money – Double Your Impact Campaign

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

I know a good deal when I see one (in part because I'm the cheapest MF you'll ever see) and let me tell you - this is a good deal.

And it's for a great cause.

The Asian Pacific Community Fund is working to raise $25,000 for our Double The Money, Double Your Impact Campaign. An anonymous donor has offered to match up to $25,000, dollar-for-dollar, any gift made to the Asian Pacific Community Fund in honor of our organization's 20th Anniversary, Celebrating 20 Years of Community Impact.


Dear Friend,

I am excited to announce the “Double The Money – Double Your Impact Campaign!” An anonymous donor has generously offered a match of up to $25,000 in honor of our 20th Anniversary recognizing “20 Years of Community Impact.”

So that means... if you donate $1 today, this anonymous donor will match your $1 and it becomes $2, $10 becomes $20, $100 becomes $200, $1,000 becomes $2,000 and so on --all going to the Asian Pacific Community Fund!

Help us reach our goal of $25,000 with a $25,000 match for a total of $50,000 by our 20th Anniversary Celebration to be held on Wednesday, July 20th at our 5th Annual Giving for All Seasons Gala!

Don't miss this chance to double your impact! Please consider making a generous donation today.

I look forward to your participation as we transform lives and meet the diverse needs of APIs by building healthier communities, developing leaders, creating a stronger voice and providing a foundation for a brighter tomorrow. Thank you!

Sincerely,
Debra A. Fong
Executive Director
http://www.apcf.org/

Breaking Ground: Vietnamese Heritage Garden

Monday, June 13, 2011

Just thought you might be interested:

For more than twenty-three years, the Vietnamese American Community in San Jose, California has been dreaming and planning for a cultural heritage garden in the city with the world’s largest population of Vietnamese outside of Vietnam.

Today, the dream comes true. Led by the efforts of the Viet Heritage Society (VHS) and the tremendous support of the Mayor, Vice Mayor and the City Council of San Jose, ground will be broken and construction of the Viet Heritage Garden (VHG), the first garden of its kind in the nation, will begin.

The Viet Heritage Garden, situated on 4.2 acres of land at Kelly Park, San Jose, is designed as a place of tranquility where the culture and heritage of Vietnam will be cherished through art, architecture and horticulture of various plants, trees, and flowers found in Vietnam. This garden will serve as a gathering place where people of diverse backgrounds can come together and learn more about the Vietnamese people and their history.

Reflecting the continued growth and development of the Vietnamese American Community, the Viet Heritage Garden also ambitiously serves to bridge the diversified communities, cultures and generations in San Jose.

A Community Celebration Day will be scheduled on August 6, 2011 to honor and introduce the Vietnamese Heritage Garden to the community.

Viet Heritage Society (VHS)
696 E. Santa Clara St, Ste 200
San Jose, CA. 95112

You're A First: When Gurmeet Sodhi Gets Invited To The White House

Monday, June 13, 2011

Just an FYI:

Indian American talk show host, Gurmeet Sodhi, has been invited to the White House to attend the reception of the Asian American Pacific Islanders Commission (AAPI) on June 22, according to a media release.

This is the first time an Indian Talk Show host will be attending such an event, the White House release said.

With almost a decade of experience as a talk show host, Sodhi is one of the most influential women in the South Asian Media community.

Sodhi''s talk show GS with GS (Gup Shup with Gurmeet Sodhi) has kicked-off its third successful season on April 1.

Her show filmed episodes about social awareness, economic development, cultural richness, historical & religious landmarks among many other topics.

Her invitation to the White House was initiated by Amardeep Singh who serves as a Commissioner on the White House Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, appointed by Obama. Singh is the first Sikh ever to serve on this commission.

Memory Sucks: Dawen, Eyad Zahra, And Beau Sia

Monday, June 13, 2011

NewsBytes

Monday, June 13, 2011

Word from around the way

Taika Waititi: Who is the “Pieface” in Green Lantern?

On June 7th, I had the privilege of checking out a press screening of Warner Brothers’ Green Lantern which opens in theaters on June 17th. Within this film are two Pacific Islander actors who play significant roles in this blockbuster film: Taika Waititi and Temuera Morrison, an actor who has never appeared in any American films and the other actor you may recall playing Jango Fett in Star Wars, Episode II. Both of these actors did a grand job with the roles given to them.

Sylvester Stallone's Next Co-Star: Sung Kang!

The untitled film, directed by Walter Hill and based on the crime noir graphic novel Bullet to the Head, follows a New Orleans hitman and a New York City cop who team up to take down the killers of their respective partners. It says Stallone is starring as the hitman, but there's no indication if Sung is the cop [...]

Review of Maxine Hong Kingston's 'I Love a Broad Margin to My Life'

[...] Maxine Hong Kingston’s latest memoir, I Love a Broad Margin to My Life, attempts to deconstruct the memoir by playing on the central tension between preservation and erasure. Written as a sprawling, globe-hopping long poem, Broad Margin opens with Kingston approaching her 65th birthday and at first appears as an elegiac meditation on aging. It’s soon clear, however, that Kingston is thinking deeply about the act of writing itself. She considers the possibility of a writing practice -- like Song’s -- whose sole intent is not preservation or reflection, but to live in the ephemeral present. “I sit here writing in the dark,” Kingston writes, “can’t see to change these penciled words.” And later: “This well-deep outpouring is not for / anything.”

Friday Fuckery: The Hangover Part II Review

I caught The Hangover Part II this past weekend, and as to be expected from any bro-code comedy set in Bangkok, it’s chock full o’ delightful Asian-related wit and wisdom.Child prostitution joke? Check. Thai ladyboy hookers? It went there. THERE. As in, you see errrrryything. And there’s a healthy dose of nekkid ass nekkid shots of Thai strippers in the ending credits, to make sure you get your $11 bucks worth of exotic muffs ‘n’ weiners ‘n’ such (including the fabled ping-pong ball trick).

The Last Detail

I'd like to apologize to you fellow blogizens one last time for my MIA these last few months.Good news or bad news first? Bad news. This is my last post on The Minority Militant blog. No more pity parties here. I'm dry. This is it. My life is moving on from unfavorable circumstances and I'm leaving this wonderful blog in the middle of the web until it dissolves. Good news. Firstly, I will continue to blog. Just not over here. I am moving on to a more professional platform. I can assure -- and even guarantee -- you that you will see me again very soon in the near future.

An Open Letter to the Asian American Graduates of the Class of 2011 Aspiring to be Artists

Some of you have already graduated in recent weeks while others of you will do so very shortly, but you all collectively stand on the precipice of the exciting, next phase of your young lives…unemployment and moving back into your parents’ basement. So let me offer some advice as you navigate your way through the “real world” and pursue your dream of being an artist—whether it be a painter, writer, actor, director, musician or whatever it is the Kardashians do. You may be wondering what makes me qualified to give such advice? Well, frankly, nothing. But I am older than you–not so old that it’d be weird if you’re still in your sexual experimentation phase and wanted to play “Korean traveling salesman knocks on door of bored and randy housewife,” but old enough to know what a traveling salesman actually is—and age experience counts for something.

Sylvie Kim Tumblr

I've seceded to the Cool Kids Side over at Tumblr. Thanks for reading my posts during my years of (embarrassing) development as a writer. If you find it in your hearts to redirect your Google Reader and other feeds to the new site, I'd appreciate it greatly.

Korea's Got Talent: Sung-Bong Choi

Orphaned at the age of three and left to fend for himself starting from the age of FIVE, Sung-Bong Choi sold gum and Bacchus drinks on the street to survive. He did not attend school until high school, and during his many nights wandering alone through the city, he listened in on vocal lessons to learn how to sing.

Sounds Of Justice + Tou SaiKo Lee + Honey GingerHop

Monday, June 13, 2011

Performances by

Brother Ali
Tou SaiKo Lee
Mankwe
Looney Tunes Crew

Tues. June 14th at Honey GingerHop
205 East Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55414
8pm-10pm

The Film Campaign, Tiffany Hsiung, And Within Every Woman

Monday, June 13, 2011



Got this sent in from some of the folks down at Golden Nugget Productions and wanted to make sure and post it on up.

Within Every Woman is a documentary (http://www.wewoman.org/) which tells the untold stories of the former Comfort Women – a term used to describe the 200,000 women who were coerced or kidnapped into sexual slavery by the Japanese Military during WWII. Our documentary focuses on the aftermath of such atrocities, and the complexities involved in healing from sexual abuse. The grandmothers are strong, resilient, beautiful women. For some, it took over 50 years to come forward and tell their families and loved ones about their past. Today, 1 in every 4 girls in North America experiences a form of sexual abuse. Many of them never come forward. We hope our film will inspire young women today to speak out against their perpetrators -- the grandmothers stories teach us that it is never too late!

We recently pitched our film at The 2011 Hot Docs Forum to great success, generating a lot of interest for distribution. But first we need to finish the film . We are 50% through filming and now need to raise the necessary funds to finish. We’ve launched a Kickstarter Campaign with a focusing on raising awareness and as many $5 or $10 donation as possible.… Every little bit helps. I'm writing to see if you would consider tweeting or blogging about our Kickstarter Campaign. You have such an amazing following, and we know being on your blog would generate so many hits on our site. Have a look at our Kickstarter Campaing - watch the trailer!

We filmed for three months in Asia last summer and have gotten to know these amazing, resilient, strong women. Today, there are only a handful of survivors (all above the age of 80) left. A Korean group of former Comfort Women, demonstrate every Wednesday in Seoul in search of a formal apology from the Japanese government. They have
been demonstrating for over 17 years, but time is running out. We want to bring their stories to a global audience before it’s too late.
Sounds like a great film to help get off the ground.

Erik: I'm Sorry. Again.

Monday, June 13, 2011

I won't say anything about Lebron and Wade and Bosh (who I've actually started to like a little more) and the fact that when push came to shove just didn't have that thing called character possibly (?) but they did get caught in something called Karma nor will I mention anything about that who cough media blowing it out of proportion mishap (oops - sorry I guess I did mention it and if truth be told I don't really think they blew it out of proportion).

But I just wanted to say I was sorry.

Again.

And that I think you should look a little meaner when you're losing so you don't lose your job (because of people who might misinterpret that as being soft when you should really be beating your team down for lack of effort).

Because let's face it - as much as the world hates The Miami Heat - we'd hate it even more if we have to stare at Pat Riley for a year versus you (because I love your dimples you sweet sweet man who when all is said and done made it to The Finals).

An Open Letter To API's Who Send Me Press Releases That Have Nothing To Do With Anything

Monday, June 13, 2011

Dear People Who I'm Referring Too In The Title Of The Post,

Just because you might have an Asian sounding name doesn't really mean that much to me when you press release me about things that having absolutely nothing to do with anything that I would ever post on - especially seeing as how I'm blogging out only half time right now and I really don't have time for things like the following:

1. Probiotic (WTF is this shit anyway and what the hell kind of disease is it going to give me after I STOP using it?)

2. Johnny Depp. I know he gets everyone a little wet and a little hard, but why the fuck do I care again?

3. Strippers.

4. Scratch that. We all care about strippers.

5. Don't we?

It's Your First: Notorious MSG And Heavy Ghetto

Monday, June 13, 2011



The first full length album by the Notorious MSG.

Getting Your Kollaboration New York Audition On

Monday, June 13, 2011




KOLLABORATION NEW YORK ANNOUNCES AUDITION AND SEPTEMBER 29TH SHOW INFORMATION FOR ANNUAL TALENT SHOW

NEW YORK, NY-- As the New York extension of the national Kollaboration movement, Kollaboration New York (KNY), aims to tap into the abundance and variety of Asian American talent unique to New York and develop a supportive network for the city’s budding Asian American talent.

The talent showcase will take place on Thursday, September 29 at Irving Plaza. In the past, KNY has featured performances ranging from hip hop dance, to acoustic vocalists, to spoken word/rap – all in competition for cash prizes and the grand title of New York’s premier Asian American performer.

On Saturday, June 18 and Sunday, June 26, Kollaboration New York (KNY) will be
hosting auditions for our annual main talent showcase.

Kollaboration New
York Annual Talent Show Auditions
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Sunday, June
26, 2011
11am - 5pm

Those interested in auditioning can sign up through the audition form: bit.ly/kollabny_auditions. Those that are not able to attend both dates must submit an audition video along with the audition form. Submissions for entry are due June 13. Audition location and time confirmation will be sent by June 15.

KNY recently held an Open Mic Benefit Show featuring guest performers, Decipher, Johnnyphlo, G*LEE and Fool’s Gold Record’s The Suzan. It helped raise over $2000 for the Japan relief efforts.

About Kollaboration:

Kollaboration is an annual event and movement created by a small group of professional young Asian Pacific Islander Americans/Canadians (APIA/C), volunteering their time and skills to celebrate the vast talents of their community in the hopes of exposing them to mainstream performing arts and entertainment industries.

About Irving Plaza:

Irving Plaza is a three-level auditorium built in 1888. Located at 17 Irving Place and East 15th Street in the Union Square neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City, it provides a large-scale, professional performance space. The 1,200-person ballroom-style music venue has been a location for balls, lectures, and concerts. To learn more about the Irving Plaza, visit irvingplaza.com.

Johannes Mehserle + Oscar Grant = That's A Little Fucked Up

Monday, June 13, 2011

I don't know about you, but even though I'm not in law enforcement - and I readily admit it's gotta be a hard job and I think we should give the fine men and women who serve and protect us (most of the time I'd like to think) the benefit of the doubt - well - I think I'd know the difference between a stun gun and a taser.

Especially if I was trained.

Especially if I was on the other side of a unarmed man.

Even if he was a White Guy and I was scared shitless that this White Guy might explode at me anytime because of the innate prejudice and stereotyping of White People that took over my senses.

I mean I think I'd know better if the roles were reversed.

And I think I'd know that even if I wasn't there - maybe like being on a jury (but we all know how that went).

But, I also know I'd think how incredibly great our justice system was if I only got sentenced to two years out of fourteen and then only had to serve 11 months out of that sentence.

In fact - I'd feel like an absolute MF winner.

It's The Friendraiser (Don't Be A Weiner): The Action Council Of The Coalition For Asian American Children And Families (25th Anniversay!)

Monday, June 13, 2011



Karaoke? Two for one drinks? And a celebration?

You must be a complete Weiner if you can't even consider going to this if you're in the area:


Come out to our happy hour and celebrate CACF’s 25th anniversary with us! Reunite with old friends and make new ones, learn more about CACF and how to get involved, and sing a karaoke song or two.

Pulse
135 West 41st Street (Btwn 6th & Broadway)
6-9 p.m.
Free entry and appetizers
Two-for-one drinks from 6-8
$1/song
Got Resignation?

Get Your Book Published

Monday, June 13, 2011

While you can always self publish (and self love really is some of the best love, so I figure that self publishing might be somewhat just as good...although if I really think about it maybe it's the opposite...but just go with me on this one) why not try and get your manuscript published by someone else?

Nice work if you can get.

Especially if you have some help.


Looking to get your manuscript published and not sure where to begin? Don't miss How to Get Your Book Published: From Writing a Query Letter to Signing a Contract. Prominent editors, agents, and writers Monique Truong, Kirby Kim, Wendy Lee, Ed Park, Zohra Saed, Juliet Grames, and Jin Auh give you their expert tips this Thursday, June 16.
More at the AAWW.

Take Two: Direct Arts + Rahmin Bahrani + Eric Dufault

Monday, June 13, 2011



Sweet.

It's our last double bill of the year! Come have a drink with us, catch two wacky ecological parables and participate in a discussion with Tiokasin Ghosthorse, host of Indigenous Radio on WBAI.

7:00 Social (Half) Hour

7:30 Plastic Bag
Written & directed by Ramin Bahrani


The existential journey of a plastic bag (voiced by Werner Herzog) as it searches for his beloved maker. See this award-winning short film by the director of CHOP SHOP and MAN PUSH CART projected in all its glory at the Red Room!

8:00 The Desert Play
Written by Eric Dufault
Directed by Victoria Linchog


Coyote attempts to please the Sun and stave off the ending of the world by trapping children with scorpions, cacti and other irresistible child-bait. Anthropomorphizing was never so much fun! With Daniel Abeles, Miles Angerson, Julia Ahumaba Grob, Jake Hart, Megan Hart, Helen Kim, Nikaury Rodriguez and Elizabeth Ruf-Maldonado.

Followed by a discussion on indigenous rites and ecology with Tiokasin Ghosthorse, spiritual agitator, natural rights organizer and Indigenous thinking-process educator from the Cheyenne River Lakota (Sioux) Nation of South Dakota.

An Open Letter To The Korean Girl Next To Me

Monday, June 13, 2011

Dear K-Girl,

I really just want to say one thing to you.

Rude!!!

Slanty

Retro Flash Mob I Wish I Would Have Been A Part Of (Because I Can Dance...Really I Can)

Tuesday, June 07, 2011



I wasn't actually telling the truth...I can only partially dance....

Does the windshield wiper count?

Asian Women Giving Circle + Shopping + Brooklyn

Monday, June 06, 2011

Random Dumbass Comment

Monday, June 06, 2011

Cicithe3 (unregistered) wrote:

Guy Aoki licks balls.

Six Degrees Of Music: Listeners Who Bought Baiyu's Fan Fair Also Bought...

Monday, June 06, 2011

Keri Hilson, Chris Brown, and Usher.

Source: iTunes.

Twitter Fact: Mindy Kaling = 1,400,000+ Twitter Followers

Friday, June 03, 2011

That's it.

Random Crazy Liza Lapira Love

Friday, June 03, 2011



Not really sure what her role is in the movie (and I'm too lazy to do any more digging) but hey - it's never too early to start planning for July and why not see a movie with Liza Lapira in it.

I'm Sorry Erik...

Friday, June 03, 2011



However I'll be honest and say you're way better looking than Mark Cuban. It may not mean much now (or forever for that matter) but that's really all I have.

Ty Fujimura Says Apple Is Doomed (And I Kind Of Believe Him)

Friday, June 03, 2011

From The Huff:


Since releasing the iPod, Apple has dispatched challengers with Jedi-like ease, brushing aside giants and upstarts alike to become the most valuable tech company in the world. In the meantime, they've built a giant fanbase whose love for the company borders on the religious. The Apple advantage is good taste, and the originator of that taste is CEO Steve Jobs.
Read it in full.

Sukanya Roy: She's Got Those Other Spellers Seeing Cerise

Friday, June 03, 2011



When you go from 20th place one year ago to taking the whole damn thing this year - that's just MF awesome.

And yes - just in case you were wondering - that's four in a row for Desi Nation.

Film: Reslience In June

Thursday, June 02, 2011



If you are so inclined and in the areas it's never to early to plan for film.

Check out these June screenings of the award-winning documentary RESILIENCE directed by Tammy Chu.

Seattle, WA
Sunday, June 5 3:15pm
http://www.wingluke.org/

The Netherlands
Saturday, June 11 1:00pm
http://www.arierang.nl/

Honolulu, HI
Sunday, Jun 12* - Friday June 24
(*Q&A with Tammy Chu)
http://www.honoluluacademy.org/

Chicago, IL
Saturday, June 25 6:30pm
For more information email:
cmcmillan7@gmail.com

All events listed include Q&A with director Tammy Chu in person or online. View full schedule and details at: www.resiliencefilm.com/news/

To host a screening near you email: info@resiliencefilm.com

Random Thought On South Koreans

Wednesday, June 01, 2011

If South Koreans text the most and drink the most in the mother area (or vicinity - however you want to look at it) I'm just wondering how many amazing drunk txts there are floating around.