UPDATED MAY 26, 2012

Phase 1 of the relaunched Web site of the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) is live. Check it out at AAJA.org.

Become an AAJA member or take a look at membership levels and benefits.

Make a tax-deductible donation to AAJA.

To contact AAJA:

• E-mail: national@aaja.org | Telephone: 415-346-2051 | Fax: 415-346-6343
• Mailing address: 5 Third St., Suite 1108, San Francisco, Calif. 94103

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AAJA NATIONAL OFFICER ELECTIONS

AAJA members will be electing candidates for the offices of National President, National Vice President for Broadcast and National Treasurer for two-year volunteer terms that begin Jan. 1, 2013. 

For more information, click here.

AAJA PROGRAMS

For professionals:

• To find out more about opportunities for professional journalists, contact Professional Programs Coordinator Marcia Santillan at marcias@aaja.org or call 415-346-2051, Ext. 107.
• Check out AAJA Career Listings for members here.
• Have Member News to share? Send a 30- to 40-word write-up with biography and photo (subject to editing) to Professional Programs Coordinator Marcia Santillan at marcias@aaja.org.

For students:

• To learn more about programs for high school and college, as well as scholarships and internship grants, contact Student Coordinator Nao Vang at naov@aaja.org or call 415-346-2051, Ext. 102.

UNITY 2012 CONVENTION

Join journalism industry leaders from around the world for UNITY12, Aug. 1-4 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. AAJA and our UNITY alliance partners will present the latest in journalism training, and the convention will offer unparalleled opportunities to expand your industry contacts.

Pre-registration rates expire June 29, so register as an AAJA member and save!

AAJA CAREER LISTINGS

Looking for a job or wanting to post a job?  If so, access AAJA’s Career Listings here.

AAJA MEDIAWATCH

MediaWatch is AAJA’s core program to address unfair and inaccurate news coverage about Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs).

An AAJA Media Advisory on News Coverage of Jeremy Lin was issued Feb. 22. We encourage you to share this resource for how to report fairly and accurately on Lin and other AAPIs.

Participate in the MediaWatch discussion by joining the MediaWatch Facebook group. 

AAJA MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

Membership in AAJA is open to all who believe in our mission, which includes ensuring fair and accurate coverage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs), as well as encouraging the hiring and promotion of AAPIs in newsrooms.

Membership benefits include access to AAJA Career Listings, discounts on UNITY12 convention registration and savings on professional services, such as Poynter training.

Become an AAJA member.

Click here for AAJA Member News.

If you have questions, contact AAJA Membership and Chapter Development Manager Antonio Salas at antonios@aaja.org or call 415-346-2051, Ext. 105.

ABOUT THE ASIAN AMERICAN JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION

AAJA’s Leadership

• Executive Director Kathy Chow | 415-346-2051, Ext. 106
• National President Doris Truong
• National Vice President for Broadcast George Kiriyama
• National Vice President for Print Thomas Lee
• National Secretary Theodore Kim
• National Treasurer Rene Astudillo
• AAJA National Board

The Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit professional and educational organization with more than 1,500 members across the United States and in Asia. AAJA’s 21 chapters are in Arizona, Asia, Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Florida, Hawai’i, Los Angeles, Michigan, Minnesota, New England, New York, North Carolina, Philadelphia, Portland, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco/Bay Area, Seattle, Texas and Washington, D.C.

Founded in 1981, AAJA has been at the forefront of change in the journalism industry. AAJA’s mission is to provide a means of association and support among Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) journalists; provide encouragement, information, advice and scholarship assistance to AAPI students who aspire to professional journalism careers; provide to the AAPI community an awareness of news media and an understanding of how to gain fair access; and, research and point out when news media organizations stray from accuracy and fairness in the coverage of AAPIs.

AAJA is an alliance partner in UNITY Journalists along with the Native American Journalists Association, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association.

To contact AAJA:

• E-mail: national@aaja.org | Telephone: 415-346-2051 | Fax: 415-346-6343
• Mailing address: 5 Third St., Suite 1108, San Francisco, Calif. 94103

April 30, 2012

SAN FRANCISCO — The Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) will be rolling out 31 profiles of our members in May, which is designated as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Throughout May, learn more about selected members from our 1,400-member organization in the following categories:

• Pioneers (journalism trailblazers)
• Emerging leaders (people making an impact on the industry early in their careers)
• Movers and shakers (journalism leaders with at least 10 years’ experience)
• Fresh faces (college students and other up-and-comers)

AAJA is partnering with the Maynard Institute for Journalism Education to present these daily profiles to a broad audience.

In addition to featuring notable AAJA members during Heritage Month, AAJA plans a series of BlogTalkRadio Q&A sessions highlighting topics of interest to the journalism community.

The BTR series will be on Mondays:

• May 7 (2 p.m. Eastern/11 a.m. Pacific): “Standing Out in a Crowded Field of Job Candidates” — Brooke Camp of CNN and Lars Schmidt of NPR will offer expert advice on what grabs recruiters’ attention. They will talk with the Asian American Journalists Association about how to keep your skills and portfolio fresh after layoffs/buyouts, and they will discuss how to make your next move.
• May 14 (11 p.m. Eastern/8 p.m. Pacific): “Getting a Book Deal, Then Marketing Yourself” — Journalist-cookbook author Anupy Singla and mystery writer Ed Lin will provide tips on how to become a successful self-promoter once you have your publishing contract. Topics will include ways to get a publishing house to see the value of your proposal as well as whether you need an agent.
• May 21: “Diversity for the Worldwide Leader in Sports” — ESPN Senior Vice President Rob King will be on the line to offer his perspective as a top-level manager for a worldwide company — how diversity among athletes is being reflected in the newsroom, and how sports journalism is evolving in the 24/7 news cycle.
• May 28: Guest(s) and topic TBD.

For the full schedule of AAJA’s upcoming BTR sessions (and to find previous programs), go to blogtalkradio.com/aaja.

Join AAJA every day in May to learn more about our organization’s outstanding journalists and to broaden your knowledge of the journalism industry.

The Asian American Journalists Association is a nonprofit professional and educational organization with more than 1,400 members across the United States and in Asia. Founded in 1981, AAJA has been at the forefront of change in the journalism industry. AAJA’s mission is to encourage Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) to enter the ranks of journalism, to work for fair and accurate coverage of AAPIs, and to increase the number of AAPI journalists and news managers in the industry. AAJA is an alliance partner in UNITY Journalists, along with the Native American Journalists Association, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association. For more information about AAJA, visit www.aaja.org.

April 17, 2012

SAN FRANCISCO — The Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) today announced Loyola University’s sponsorship of J Camp, a multicultural high school journalism workshop. Forty-two high school students from across the country will be selected to participate in the five-day program hosted by the university located in New Orleans, Louisiana from June 19-24, 2012.

“Here at Loyola we are passionate about journalism and journalism education,” said Dr. Sonya Duhe, Director and Professor of the School of Mass Communications at Loyola University. “So we are just thrilled to host these most talented young journalists from across the country.”

Since the program started in 2001, a total of 459 of the nation’s brightest young people have graduated from J Camp, which endeavors to develop the next generation of journalists. High school students from across the country are selected in a competitive application process where academic achievement and journalistic talent are among the strongest considerations. The students selected for the 2012 J Camp are: http://bit.ly/2012jcampstudents

Neal Justin, J Camp co-director and TV critic for the Minneapolis Star Tribune also stated: “We are absolutely thrilled to be bringing J Camp to New Orleans and, more specifically, Loyola University. The facilities, location and staff are top notch, providing a great home base for one of the strongest classes in our 12-year history.”

Students from all racial and ethnic backgrounds attend the program to sharpen their journalism skills and work together in a unique learning environment. The curriculum consists of hands-on training with leading professional journalists, lectures from some of the industry’s biggest stars, and reporting field trips.

“We are really excited for this year’s class of J Campers to get a taste of academic life at Loyola while they are learning more about the profession of journalism,” said AAJA National President Doris Truong. “New Orleans has so many stories, and the students will be privileged to have easy access to the city from Loyola’s campus.”

The Asian American Journalists Association is a nonprofit professional and educational organization with more than 1,400 members across the United States and in Asia. Founded in 1981, AAJA has been at the forefront of change in the journalism industry. AAJA’s mission is to encourage Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) to enter the ranks of journalism, to work for fair and accurate coverage of AAPIs, and to increase the number of AAPI journalists and news managers in the industry. AAJA is an alliance partner in UNITY Journalists, along with the Native American Journalists Association, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association. For more information about AAJA, visit www.aaja.org.

The AAJA National Secretary, on behalf of the executive officers, puts out an annual call for nominees for the Member of the Year, President of the Year and Chapter of the Year.

Here’s what to look for:

Which AAJA member has gone above and beyond, locally or on the national level? Which chapter president has done the most outstanding work? Which one of our 21 chapters sets the standard for excellence?

Consider nominees primarily for the work accomplished in the previous calendar year (2011). But also take into account a chapter’s or individual’s overall body of work on behalf of AAJA.

We’ll honor the winners during the UNITY12 convention in Las Vegas. The deadline for submissions is Tuesday, May 15.

To submit a recommendation, simply e-mail AAJA National Secretary Theodore Kim the following information:

1. Name of the person making the recommendation (self-nominations are accepted).
2. Name of the recommended person or chapter.
3. Category (Member, President or Chapter).
4. Short statement about why the recommended person/chapter should be recognized. Please include examples that demonstrate excellence on behalf of AAJA.

Those recommended for Member of the Year must have been AAJA members in 2011. If you are nominating in the President category, chapter Co-Presidents must both be included. Nominees for Chapter of the Year must be chapters in good standing.

Take a few moments to help AAJA’s officers salute the good work that is happening around the organization. If you need more information or for a complete list of previous award winners, please e-mail AAJA National Secretary Theodore Kim.

April 4, 2012

SAN FRANCISCO — The Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) is disheartened to learn for the fourth year in a row that overall representation by journalists of color in U.S. newsrooms surveyed by the American Society of News Editors (ASNE) has declined.

Down from a relative high of representing 13 percent of print-focused newsrooms in 2006 to only 12.3 percent in 2012, journalists of color are losing ground in representing an increasingly diverse population.

As we have seen through recent news coverage, diversity is more important than ever. Without a variety of life experiences and perspectives in the journalism industry, newsrooms have a narrow lens through which to filter information for a wide-ranging audience. 

In February, AAJA issued a Media Advisory to counter harmful stereotypes about Asians and Asian Americans that were appearing in news reports about NBA player Jeremy Lin. Without the benefit of diverse voices to help educate within the newsroom, some news organizations risked losing credibility with their audience.

Not only is diversity in hiring the right thing to do because it mirrors the changing complexion of our nation’s cities, it makes economic sense. Hiring journalists who can speak to a 21st-century audience — one in which people of color will be the majority — allows news organizations to remain relevant.

“Diversity drives dollars, and dollars drive the news industry,” said AAJA National President Doris Truong. “Hiring managers will find a wealth of talented journalists by tapping into networks such as AAJA’s.”

AAJA offers a pipeline of qualified candidates who will keep newsrooms ahead of the curve in connecting with a dynamic society. There is no excuse for the next ASNE census of America’s newsrooms to continue the downward trend in journalists of color since 2009.

“Let’s work together with our partners, including UNITY and the National Association of Black Journalists, to make sure diversity is a business imperative,” Truong said. “And top-level managers who are members of groups such as ASNE can make a real difference with each hire.”

Media Contact: AAJA Executive Director Kathy Chow

• E-mail: kathyc@aaja.org
• Telephone: 415-346-2051 | Fax: 415-346-6343
• Mailing address: 5 Third St., Suite 1108, San Francisco, Calif. 94103

The Asian American Journalists Association is a nonprofit professional and educational organization with more than 1,400 members across the United States and in Asia. Founded in 1981, AAJA has been at the forefront of change in the journalism industry. AAJA’s mission is to encourage Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) to enter the ranks of journalism, to work for fair and accurate coverage of AAPIs, and to increase the number of AAPI journalists and news managers in the industry. AAJA is an alliance partner in UNITY: Journalists of Color, along with the Native American Journalists Association, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association. For more information about AAJA, visit www.aaja.org.

March 28, 2012

SAN FRANCISCO — The Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) is pleased to announce the selection of AAJA’s New York chapter as the 2013 host for the 1,400-member organization’s national convention.

“On behalf of the New York chapter, we are delighted and proud to host the convention in 2013,” said convention co-chairs Brooke Camp, senior recruiter for CNN and truTV, and Michelle Yu, an anchor for SNY (SportsNet New York). “We are excited to marshal the city’s resources and energy to make this a fantastic opportunity and event for all.”

AAJA-New York impressed AAJA’s national leaders with a well-thought-out proposal, which was presented March 24 during the Spring 2012 AAJA Advisory Board meeting. The highlights:

• The chapter has a strong base of local AAJA members who are excited to welcome a national convention in 2013. AAJA-New York is the largest of AAJA’s 21 chapters and has a wealth of experience in organizational leadership, including nationally recognized AAJA volunteers and several former national officers.
• The chapter has convention-hosting experience. AAJA-New York was responsible for a national convention in Times Square in 2000.
• Local news goes global. From 9/11 to Wall Street to Linsanity, what’s news in New York is news for everyone.
• The city is the media capital of the free world spanning 6 national broadcast networks, 10 local news stations, 78 cable networks, 6 international wire services, 4 of the 10 largest-circulation U.S. newspapers, 350 magazines and numerous journalism start-ups. Not only does New York have an array of news outlets, it’s a prime hunting ground for AAJA members seeking their next opportunity.

“AAJA is sold on the concept of a convention where everything’s only a Metrocard away,” said AAJA National President Doris Truong. “New York is the city that never sleeps. What’s a better match for today’s 24/7 news culture? I can’t wait to attend our 2013 convention.”

AAJA’s Governing Board has empowered AAJA Executive Director Kathy Chow to move forward with the New York chapter in the exploratory phase of securing a convention site. Details will be presented this summer at the UNITY12 journalism convention, Aug. 1-4 in Las Vegas. 

Media Contact: AAJA Executive Director Kathy Chow

• E-mail: kathyc@aaja.org
• Telephone: 415-346-2051 | Fax: 415-346-6343
• Mailing address: 5 Third St., Suite 1108, San Francisco, Calif. 94103

The Asian American Journalists Association is a nonprofit professional and educational organization with more than 1,400 members across the United States and in Asia. Founded in 1981, AAJA has been at the forefront of change in the journalism industry. AAJA’s mission is to encourage Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) to enter the ranks of journalism, to work for fair and accurate coverage of AAPIs, and to increase the number of AAPI journalists and news managers in the industry. AAJA is an alliance partner in UNITY: Journalists of Color, along with the Native American Journalists Association, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association. For more information about AAJA, visit www.aaja.org.