"Gang Culture, Youth Culture, and Activism" Discussion at Japanese American National Museum May 22

An open discussion between speakers and participants about the impact of 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s gangs and youth organizations will be held at the Japanese American National Museum on Saturday, May 22 at 1 p.m. The discussion will feature teacher-activist Kathy Masaoka, former “Yellow Brotherhood” member Nick Nagatani, and former “Asian American Hardcore” member Ray Tasaki. They will discuss the impact and influence of organizations like “Yellow Brotherhood” and “Asian American Hardcore” on younger activists and their legacy of positive social action.

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Asian American gangs and organizations flourished among many youth that were surrounded by the images of the Vietnam Conflict and racial injustice. Groups like “Asian American Hardcore” and “Yellow Brotherhood” were organized by—and for—young Asians who did not fit the model-minority stereotypes that persisted in mainstream culture at the time. Sustained as grassroots organizations that were destined to exist for a limited number of years, “Yellow Brotherhood” (1969–1975) and other similar Asian American organizations actively participated in drug-use prevention for youth and supplied role models that taught younger members how to organize, speak out, and work together in constructive ways. The guest speakers for “Gang Culture, Youth Culture, and Activism” will discuss the lasting influences that these organizations have had on Asian American activists, as well as discuss what many former members are doing today. This program is free with admission to the Museum.

Reservations are required for this unique and insightful discussion. To make reservations for “Gang Culture, Youth Culture and Activism,” please call the Museum at 213.625.0414. After the discussion, “The Ties That Bind” Youth Involvement Committee will provide an informal forum for young people to further discuss the issues. Separate reservations are required for the “The Ties That Bind Follow-Up,” which begins immediately after the end of the public program. To make reservations for this separate event, please call Traci Kato Kiriyama at 213.830.5628. The Japanese American National Museum is located at 369 East First Street in Little Tokyo, downtown Los Angeles. Admission prices to the Museum are $6 for Adults, $5 for Seniors, $3 for Students and Children 6–17, and Free for Members and children under 5.