The Asian American Journalists Association was formed 40 years ago by six journalism pioneers: Bill Sing (AAJA’s first national president), David Kishiyama, Nancy Yoshihara, Tritia Toyota, Dwight Chuman, and Frank Kwan. 

For the 40th Anniversary, AAJA staff interviewed members of the original six and many more to capture the legacy of AAJA. These interviews highlight the struggles that members faced in the newsrooms, boardrooms, and in the field. But with their strong connection to AAJA and its members, they persevered, supported one another, and encouraged others to stand up for the underrepresented and often ignored. 

With this project, we are proudly looking back and boldly moving forward towards what the next 40 years has in store.