OCA-OC and MANAA announced today that the two organizations will jointly host a forum to discuss the images of Asian Americans in media. OCA-OC is an organization dedicated to advancing the social, political, and economic well-being of Asian and Pacific Americans in the United States. MANAA advocates for balanced, sensitive, and positive coverage and portrayals of Asian Americans in the media. The public is encouraged to join in a lively panel discussion as actor Francois Chau, and Guy Aoki (MANAA founding president, and Rafu Shimpo columnist), share their experiences with Hollywood and efforts to change the way mainstream media portrays Asian Americans. “This discussion will inform the public of how the Asian and Pacific Americans have been portrayed,” said Ellen Lu, President of OCA-OC. “The changes to a more accurate and positive portrayal of all ethnic minority communities, including Asian and Pacific Islander community, will be instrumental in fighting discrimination and prejudice,” added Lu. “Anyone interested in the changing relationship between our communities and the media should find this evening both fun and thought-provoking,” said Phil Lee, MANAA President.

Who: OCA-OC and MANNA with Francois Chau and additional guests from the entertainment industry

What: Lively discussion on changes in the way mainstream media portrays Asian Americans.

When: Thursday, June 4, 2009
6 PM Registration and Networking
7 PM Program

Where: UC Irvine University Club
801 East Peltason Drive, Irvine

Cost: MANAA and OCA-OC Members: $5
Non-Members: $10

Etc: Drinks and hors d’oeuvres provided
Parking is complimentary

RSVP: rsvp@oca-oc.org