MediaWatch
What is AAJA MediaWatch?
As part of the mission of the Asian American Journalists Association, AAJA MediaWatch addresses issues of unfair and inaccurate news media coverage about Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
Issues that appear in the newspaper, magazines, on the television news, online media, or broadcast on radio may be addressed by the organization. See our current guidelines.
Among the ways AAJA responds are by sending a letter, calling or meeting with publishers, editors or staff of the media companies to discuss the issue or complaint. AAJA may also issue a statement, press release or media alert about the issue.
What Do You See? If you come across an issue for AAJA MediaWatch, let us know by filling out a report to us online.
Eye on the News
Minn. TV Station Refers to "Asian Invasion" of International Golfers
The Seattle Times ran a story about police pursuing a male groping suspect. The newspaper reported that he attacked women "described as Asian or Asian American," which a reader argued that differentiating between "Asian" and "Asian American" is unnecessary in this context. AAJA MediaWatch Committee responded to the reader.July 7, 2008
Racial Identifiers: 'Asian' or 'Asian American'?
The Seattle Times ran a story about police pursuing a male groping suspect. The newspaper reported that he attacked women "described as Asian or Asian American," which a reader argued that differentiating between "Asian" and "Asian American" is unnecessary in this context. AAJA MediaWatch Committee responded to the reader.July 7, 2008
AAJA's MediaWatch Comments on AJC Column About an American Tradition in Japan
Columnist's criticism of baseball's opening day in Japan spawns response.April 2, 2008
AAJA Appalled by Colorado Campus Press Commentary Targeting Asians
Published piece calls for Asians to be captured, dragged and hog-tied. Comments.February 20, 2008
AAJA Writes Letter to Universal Press Syndicate Opposing Pat Oliphant's Latest Racist Cartoon
Oliphant, known for his offensive stereotypes, continues to depict Chinese as demeaning.July 27, 2007
AAJA Applauds Efforts to Remove "Oriental" From Arizona's State Statute
Senator Barbara Leff and journalist Madeline Ong-Sakata advocated "Asian" be used instead.March 30, 2007
Media Tips
AAJA recommends that you address news companies directly in the following manner:
- Make sure you are addressing the correct person. Contact the media company to find out who to direct your letter or call to.
- Be courteous at all times.
- Briefly summarize the story that was published or broadcast. Include the date of publication or airing along with the time. If available, include the clip or link.
- Clearly state what was unfair or inaccurate and why.
- Provide cultural history or education about the issue. See AAJA’s coverage guide for examples.
- Keep it short to respect everyone’s time.
- Follow up with the media company to see if they will be providing a comment.
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