|
January 12th 2005: Issue 24
There's a interesting network of blogrings dedicated to social and political commentary on Korea and the issues of Koreans living abroad, where you can get alternative perspectives. On Dog Stew, there are many links to Korean news sites, Korean American community group websites, and other blogs dedicated to Korea (both North and South).
In a country where fads are part of the lifestyle, evidently the Yon-sama craze is still going strong in Japan. But, in a way it's a good sign of better economic relations between the two countries that started off when they both hosted the World Cup. Now, Korea has even lifted the last restrictions on Japanese cultural products as well, including CDs containing songs with Japanese lyrics.
After turning down the lead in the much anticipated Memoirs of a Geisha, which is starring arguably the greatest Asian cast ever for a Hollywood production with now Zhang Ziyi taking the lead, and Gong Li, Michelle Yeoh, Ken Watanabe and Koji Yakusho rounding out the all-star cast, Kim Yoon-jin joins the Hollywood A-list another way, by grabbing the leading female role in the new Hollywood movie Georgia Heat, opposite Billy Bob Thorton. Memoirs, first expected to be released in late 2001 (with Spielberg directing), and then in 2003 (with Spike Jonze directing) will be directed by Rob Marshall and be released in this fall. Before that, check out the animated Korean flick Sky Blue, coming out in February (see the posting below).
As you may have been inundated lately with emails on how to help with the tragedy in South East Asia, I've excerpted a guide on how to contribute. There is also an personal essay from a friend on her take on the tragedy.
-ubn
|
DISCUSSION
Portrayal of Asian Americans in the Media
|
Saturday, January 22nd, 1:00 - 4:00pm
|
|
The Korea Society
950 Third Avenue, 8th Floor
New York City
|
|
$10
|
|
rsvp@newyorkseoul.com
|
For years, the media has defined the way Americans perceive each other and themselves. From film and TV stars like Lucy Liu and John Cho, to sports figures like Seri Pak, Vijay Singh, and Yao Ming, to influential politicians like Eric Shinseki and Elaine Chao-growing numbers of Asian Americans in recent decades have made great strides in redefining how Asian Americans are perceived. Their careers challenge old stereotypes and exemplify new possibilities in ways that appeal to the mainstream media. But many maintain Asian Americans are still haunted by the ghosts of Fu Manchu, Suzy Wong and Charlie Chan.
Where are Asian Americans on the barometer that measures balanced representation? Has America matured enough to look past cliche roles like those in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon or those described in the controversial Details magazine article "Gay or Asian?" How will China's growing economic prowess impact the representation of Asian Americans in the American media? What can the average consumer do to combat inaccurate portrayals? Join The Korea Society and New York Seoul for a program that will attempt to tackle these and other questions.
Please join us on Saturday, January 22nd at The Korea Society in Manhattan for a 1pm discussion. We will be spending the afternoon with prominent Asian American journalists who find the portrayal of Asian Americans in the media to be one of the most important factors in determining a group's acceptance in mainstream American society. The forum presents an opportunity for young Korean Americans to explore and get educated on issues surrounding the Portrayal of Asian Americans in the Media.
Panelists:
SuChin Pak, Correspondent, MTV News
Tina Kim, Reporter, FOX Good Day Philadelphia
PJ Joshi, Reporter, New York Newsday
Nydia Han, Reporter, ABC Action News Philadelphia
|
RECEPTION
A Special Evening of Korean Art & Wine
|
Also-Known-As, Inc
| |
|
Thursday January 27th, 7:00pm
| |
|
211 Central Park West at 81st Street
New York City
| |
|
$10.00 per adult*
| |
|
www.alsoknownas.org
|
Lea Sneider, a Korean Art collector and wife of a former U.S. ambassador to Korea, Invites friends and family to a special reception At her home to learn about Korean Art. View and learn about the many different styles of Korean art in Lea's collection as she shares her extensive knowledge of Asian Art.* RSVP by January 21st to Kristin Pak at kpak@mail.alsoknownas.org
*A few items will be for sale. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Also-Known-As, Inc.
Also-Known-As is a non-profit organization serving the entire international adoption community. Founded in 1996 by a Korean-born adoptee, Also Known-As is run by adult adoptees and funded exclusively by donations. Proceeds from this event will go towards our Mentorship, Adoption Forum, and Cultural Programs. Since the 1950s, it is estimated that there are 110,000 Korean-born adopted people in the United States. Worldwide, there is an estimated 145,000. Today, tens of thousands of children are being adopted from Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America.
|
CONFERENCE
2nd Annual Asian American Music Conference (AAMC)
The 2nd annual Asian American Music Conference (AAMC) is finally coming to the Bay Area January 29th, 2005 at
the Crowne Plaza SFO in Burlingame, CA. This year the conference will focus on developing the skills and knowledge base necessary for aspiring Asian American musicians. The all-day event promises to be an informative day of music industry insights and a showcase where young artists can display their talents.
The panels include some of the most recognized names in Asian American music as well as industry experts from major labels like Sony BMG Entertainment, Columbia Records, Universal Music and Defjam Records. All accepted an
invitation to speak at the AAMC and offer their views on what it takes to become successful in the highly competitive music industry. But many of them took a special interest in the event as it helps them express their support of the Asian American music community. A few of the speakers attending: Clear Channel Promotions director Ray Wong, Hot 98.7’s Slammin’ Sam, and House of Blues publicist Janette Baxa.
The AAMC, originally scheduled to take place in San Francisco earlier this year, was moved and rescheduled due to a lengthy labor dispute between union workers and several San Francisco hotels. The event will begin at 9 a.m. and continue until 5 p.m. Registration opens promptly at 8 a.m.
|
GALA
AALDEF Lunar New Year Gala
|
|
The Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF)
| |
|
Monday, February 7th
6:00pm Reception
7:00pm Dinner
Silent Auction
| |
|
Pier Sixty
Chelsea Piers
23rd Street at the Hudson River
New York City
| |
|
www.aaldef.org | events@aaldef.org
|
AALDEF invites you to our Lunar New Year Gala for the Year of the Rooster 4703 on Monday, February 7th at Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers. RSVP by January 24, 2005. For more information contact 212) 966-5932 or events@aaldef.org.
2005 Justice in Action Award Recipients:
Don H. Liu, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, IKON Office Solutions
Salman Rushdie, Author
Mr. Rushdie and Mr. Liu will receive the Justice in Action Awards for their contributions in advancing social justice and equality, and for outstanding achievements in their respective fields. The gala will begin with a 6:00 p.m. cocktail reception, followed by the Justice in Action Awards ceremony and a three-course dinner
AALDEF, founded in 1974, protects and promotes the civil rights of Asian Americans through litigation, legal advocacy and community education in the areas of immigrant rights, civic participation and voting rights, economic justice for workers, language access to services, Census policy, affirmative action, youth rights and educational equity, and the elimination of anti-Asian violence and police misconduct.
|
BRIEFING
The Asian American Vote
Join Demos, A Network for Ideas & Action, for a briefing on the Asian American vote in the last election. Based on the National Asian American Exit Poll presented by the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund we will discuss who Asian Americans voted for, what issues mattered to them, and the long-term implications of the vote. Register online at http://www.demos-usa.org/page179.cfm
or call 212) 633-1405 x 533.
Demos' purpose is to help build a society where America can achieve its highest ideals. We believe that requires a democracy that is robust and inclusive, with high levels of electoral participation and civic engagement, and an economy where prosperity and opportunity are broadly shared and disparity is reduced. Founded in 1999, Demos' work combines research with advocacy -- melding the commitment to ideas of a think tank with the organizing strategies of an advocacy group.
|
FILM RELEASE
Sky Blue
In the near future, mankind's reckless exploitation of the environment has sparked a world war that has all but ended human civilization on earth. Only a small number of elites possessing power and technology have been able to thrive in the post-war world, building a magnificent, organic city named Ecoban. Thousands of refugees have come to the island seeking asylum in Ecoban, but the elites have barred their entry to the city and forced them to settle in the surrounding wasteland. Jay is a 19-year-old female trooper of Ecoban who guards the city against the incursions of outsiders. But when she witnesses the cruelty of Ecoban’s leaders towards the refugees, her loyalty is put to the test. When she encounters her childhood sweetheart Shua leading a rebellion against Ecoban, Jay must make the ultimate choice – whether to live for duty, or very possibly die for love.
|
KOREAN LANGUAGE CLASSESS
Korean Language Classes
Nodutdol for Korean Community Development is offering two Korean language classes: Beginners and Intermediate. Each class will be customized to the needs of students enrolled. If you are interested, please contact us at nodutdolkoreanclass@yahoogroups.com or 718) 335-0419. Tuition is $200 per 8-week session ($160 for low income students). Each class will be small (a maximum of 10 students) and focus on developing conversational Korean language skills in an informal atmosphere. If you are interested in participating in Nodutdol's Korean language classes or know of someone who might be interested, please spread the word and contact us. Registration is required by a week prior to the starting dates.
Beginners Starting Dates:
Tuesdays 6:30 - 8:30 ( 8 weeks)
Session 1 January 18th - March 8th
Session 2 March 29th - May 17th
Session 3 June 7th - August 9th**
Session 4 August 30th - October 18th
Session 5 November 1st - December 20th
|
Intermediate Starting Dates:
Thursdays 6:30 - 8:30 (8 weeks)
Session 1 Jan 20th - March 10th
Session 2 March 31st - May 19th
Session 3 May 26th - August 11th**
Session 4 Sept 1st - October 20th
Session 5 November 3rd - December 29th
|
** (10 week session)
|
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY
AALDEF Internships for Undergraduate, Graduate, and Law School
The Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF), founded in 1974, is the first organization on the East Coast to protect and promote the legal rights of Asian Americans through litigation, legal advocacy and community education. Current program priorities include economic justice for workers, immigrants' rights, voting rights and civic participation, language rights, affirmative action, the elimination of anti-Asian violence and police brutality, youth rights and educational equity, and the assistance of low-income Chinatown residents and workers affected by 9-11.
Description of Spring Internships:
Interns are supervised by staff in specific program areas. Legal interns work primarily on legal research and writing, legal and policy advocacy, community outreach and education, and client intakes. Undergraduate interns work on policy advocacy, community outreach and organizing, and some client intakes. Graduate interns work on policy advocacy, research methodology, statistical analysis, and GIS mapping. Each program area differs in emphasis. These internships are not paid positions, but academic credit can be arranged. Interns work anywhere between 8 to 25 hours per week. The
internship usually commences with the start of classes or at mid/late January through late April/early May.
To Apply:
Any bilingual ability should be stated in the resume. Bilingual ability is helpful but not required. Applications should also state the number of hours the intern is able to work per week. Send a resume and cover letter to:
Spring Intern Search Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF) 99 Hudson Street, 12th floor, New York, New York 10013-2815
|
JOB OPPORTUNITY
Nodutdol Organizational Manager
|
|
Nodutdol for Korean Community Development
| |
|
Nodutdol for Korean Community Development
53-22 Roosevelt Ave., 2nd floor
Woodside, NY 11377
| |
|
nodutdol@egroups.com | Tel: 718) 335-0419 | Fax: 717) 828-5580
|
Seeking a person who is enthusiastic for community organizing. Nodutdol works to promote the self-determination and reunification of the Korean people through community development and grassroots organizing. Our program areas include: Community health- service and organizing among Korean and other immigrants, Community Education- Korean and English language classes, youth-leadership development and base-building for a social justice school for immigrant youth, and Korea Solidarity- education, organizing and direct action against U.S. imperialism in Korea and throughout the world. Our work is growing in exciting new ways. In 2005 we seek to bring our projects together under a collective strategic vision, expand our organizational membership and capacity and continue to build strength and unity in our community.
Requirements:
Has strong political commitment to Nodutdol’s mission and principles.
Committed to working towards their fulfillment in organizational and community life and in the arenas of social change.
Adept at strategic planning and financial management
Several years of non-profit management and administrative experience
Leadership experience
Excellent communication skills
Preferably bilingual Korean and English.
Responsibilities:
Supervising and providing professional development opportunities for the staff
Membership and programming
Coordinate members to do volunteer work, assess and allocate human resources
Keep membership database
Finances and bookkeeping
Manage 501c3 and other legal records.
Managing annual budget
Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization including working closely with the leadership body.
Timeframe: To begin as soon as possible. To be evaluated after 6 months with a goal of continuation and development into a position that includes greater political leadership and overall coordination responsibilities within the next two years.
Hours: Fulltime position
Compensation: Salary: 32K, Benefits included
|
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Ny Asian American International Film Festival Call For Interns
The 28th Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF), organized by Asian CineVision (ACV), a non-profit media arts organization dedicated to promoting and preserving Asian and Asian American media expressions, is seeking interns. Internship positions are unpaid, with college credits offered and transportation expenses covered.
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
Assist in maintaining ACV’s database.
Assist in membership outreach and renewal drives.
Assist in updating ACV’s website by compiling text and images.
Assist with the coordination and execution of special screenings and events sponsored by ACV.
Research of community organizations for outreach of ACV/AAIFF programs and events.
Administrative support as needed.
Qualifications:
Must be able to work on Mac environments, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and the Internet.
Knowledge of FileMaker Pro, Quark, Photoshop, Illustrator, Adobe Acrobat, HTML, is highly desired.
Strong interests in Asian/Asian American culture, media arts, and community.
Desire to work in an entrepreneurial non-profit environment.
Must be able to work independently as well as in a team environment.
Must be self-motivated, flexible and willing to take on additional/different responsibilities.
Must be able to commit no less than 15 hours a week during ACV’s hours of operation.
Internships are by semester and may be extended pending interest. To apply, send cover letter, stating area(s) of interest, with resume to Asian CineVision, Attn: William Phuan, 133 West 19th Street, 3rd Floor , New York, NY 10011
Fax: 212-727-3584.
|
|
|
