A major new storytelling project has launched online to challenge the widespread public ignorance surrounding Asian American history. The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) has partnered with the independent digital studio Wong Fu Productions to debut The United States of Asian+America.
The digital series premiered on YouTube on 24 June 2026. It uncovers the overlooked individuals behind some of the most ubiquitous technologies, musical movements, and culinary staples in modern society.
The launch of the series arrives alongside troubling data regarding public awareness of minority histories in the United States. According to TAAF’s 2026 STAATUS Index survey, more than half of US adults cannot name a single major moment or event in Asian American history. Furthermore, only 7% of respondents believe that Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities possess a significant influence on American culture.
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This data exposes a massive disconnect between actual historical contributions and public perception. If you look at the infrastructure of your daily life, you will find AAPI innovations everywhere. The series aims to bridge this gap by bringing these foundational figures directly to your screens before the country celebrates its 250th anniversary.
From USB Drives to Hip Hop Pioneers
The production pairs legendary industry pioneers with a new generation of digital creators and hosts who are carrying their legacies forward. Philip Wang, the co-founder of Wong Fu Productions, directed the series to preserve these histories in an accessible format.
The interview line up includes structural innovators who completely transformed global communication and entertainment. Viewers will meet Ajay Bhatt, the chief architect and co-inventor of the USB technology that connects your devices every day. The series also features YouTube co-founder Steve Chen and Yahoo! co-founder Jerry Yang, alongside Dr David Ho, a medical pioneer whose research revolutionised the global treatment of HIV/AIDS.
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The series also explores major cultural spaces, featuring Sophia Chang, the first Asian woman to manage prominent hip-hop artists, and rap pioneer MC Jin. NBA champion Jeremy Lin and television chef Martin Yan also share their personal experiences navigating systemic barriers within sports and media.
Funding the Next Generation of Creators
TAAF is expanding the video series into a broader community movement through financial backing for grassroots digital storytellers. The organisation has announced the TAAF Asian+American Storytelling Initiative to help creators reclaim local histories.
Later this summer, you can visit the project’s official platform to submit pitches focused on important AAPI historical figures or movements. An evaluation committee composed of independent filmmakers will review the submissions. Finalists will receive financial awards of up to $10,000 alongside professional mentorship to develop their concepts into short-form videos.
The foundation has also launched a collaborative streetwear project with the Bay Area apparel brand Nostalgia, releasing a limited-edition denim jacket to fund city-based community initiatives. The entire video series is currently available for streaming, offering an immediate look at the people who built the modern world.
