March 29, 2007
We at the Asian American Journalists Association applaud Senator Barbara Leff and fellow journalist Madeline Ong-Sakata's efforts to extract the word "Oriental" from the Arizona's state statute and replace it with "Asian" through Senate Bill 1295, Section 2. Thank you for taking a stand on this important issue.
As a decades-old advocacy organization that encourages fair and accurate coverage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the media, AAJA views it as equally important - if not more so - that Asians be represented honorably in our federal and state government. Removing this antiquated and derogatory term for Asians will enable Arizona to extend the same respect and honor that is granted to other racial and ethnic groups who express preferences for the terms by which they are regarded.
AAJA is a nonprofit organization with about 2,000 members throughout the United States and Asia. Together, our membership stands in applause and approval of your efforts.
Thank you,
Rene Astudillo, Executive Director
Asian American Journalists Association
Jeffrey Ong, Arizona Chapter President
Asian American Journalists Association