Shaping the Political Landscape

Stories of shaping the political landscape include tribal, local, state, and federal political and governmental institutions that create public policy and those groups that seek to shape both policies and institutions. Places associated with political leaders, theorists, organizations, movements, campaigns, and grassroots political activities all illustrate aspects of the political environment.

While Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders historically were discriminated against, they still participated in shaping the political landscape of the country. They formed community organizations, advocated for new legislation, and challenged discriminatory laws and policies. They gathered in their homes, in rented offices spaces, and in public libraries to meet, discuss, and enact change.

Image of Mabel Lee from New York Tribune
Mabel Ping-Hua Lee

Mabel Lee advocated for women's suffrage rights. She was also the first Chinese woman to earn a PhD in economics from Columbia University.

Black and white photo of Yuri Kochiyama with a speaker looking at the camera.
Yuri Kochiyama

Yuri Kochiyama was a Japanese American political and civil rights activist. Read to learn more about her life and activism.

Black and white photo of Vincent Chin in a V-neck shirt looking at the camera.
Vincent Chin

Vincent Chin was a Chinese American draftsman who lived in Detroit, Michigan. In June 1982, Chin was the victim of an anti-Asian hate crime.

Black and white photo of Jack Maki, regional specialist for Japan, looks at the camera in a suit.
Asian American Activism & Citizenship

What does citizenship mean to you? Learn about the historical and contemporary AAPI activism and advocacy for political rights.

Black and white photo of Yone Noguchi, a Japanese poet, in 1903. He poses with hand on cheek.
Asian Pacific American Queer Activism

How have AAPIs been part of the history of queer activism?

Sepia photo of Bhagat Singh Thind during his Army service, holding military arms, looks to camera.
Bhagat Singh Thind

Bhagat Singh Thind was an Indian independence activist, immigrant, and WWI veteran who challenged racial restrictions on US citizenship.

Last updated: July 12, 2024

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