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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

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Black and white photo of Asian family, likely in 1940s; a still from the film Asian Americans

Celebrate the Contributions of Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders

This Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, enjoy a celebration of Olympian Duke Kahanamoku, learn how the Chinese community fought discrimination during an outbreak of bubonic plague in 1900 and much more.

American Masters Waterman­—Duke: Ambassador of Aloha

Discover the inspiring story and considerable impact of five-time Olympic medalist Duke Kahanamoku. He shattered swimming records and globalized surfing while overcoming racism in a lifetime of personal challenges. Narrated by actor Jason Momoa.

Stream online or on the PBS Video app.

American Experience Plague at the Golden Gate

Follow the gripping story of the race against time to save San Francisco and the nation from an outbreak of bubonic plague in 1900. Scapegoated as the source of the disease early on, the Chinese community fought back against unjust, discriminatory treatment.

Stream online or on the PBS Video app.

Pacific Heartbeat

This series provides an authentic glimpse into the Pacific Islander experience. Enjoy creative and beautifully told stories about arts, culture and people.

Stream anytime online or on the PBS Video app.

The Healer Stones of Kapaemahu

Discover the Hawaiian tradition of healing and gender diversity that is all but unknown.

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The Healer Stones of Kapaemahu
Pacific Heartbeat
The Healer Stones of Kapaemahu
Na Kamalei: The Men of Hula
Pacific Heartbeat
Na Kamalei: The Men of Hula
Loimata, The Sweetest Tears
Pacific Heartbeat
Loimata, The Sweetest Tears

Asian Americans

This five-hour film series delivers a bold, fresh perspective on a history that matters today, more than ever. Told through intimate personal stories, the series casts a new lens on U.S. history and the ongoing role that Asian Americans have played.

Stream anytime online or on the PBS Video app.

Breaking Ground

In an era of exclusion and U.S. empire, new immigrants arrive and adapt to life in America

Explore the Series
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Breaking Ground
Asian Americans
Breaking Ground
A Question of Loyalty
Asian Americans
A Question of Loyalty
Good Americans
Asian Americans
Good Americans
Generation Rising
Asian Americans
Generation Rising
Breaking Through
Asian Americans
Breaking Through

A Celebration of the AA and NHPI Community: Highlighting Our Diverse Tapestry 

Asian Americans and Native Hawaiians/Pacific Islanders come together to celebrate across their communities, uplift their voices and look toward a future of healing and strength. Hosted by Amna Nawaz of PBS NewsHour, the 2021 celebration features remarks from President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

A People’s History of Asian America

Produced in partnership by the Center for Asian American Media and PBS Digital Studios, this series of shorts tells the history of Asian Americans through the microaggressions and stereotypes this community faces.

Stream anytime online or on the PBS Video app.

Are You “AAPI” or “Asian American”? It's Complicated.

Explore the pros and cons of disaggregating Asian American as a statistical category.

Watch Digital Shorts
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Are You “AAPI” or “Asian American”? It's Complicated.
A People’s History of Asian America
Are You “AAPI” or “Asian American”? It's Complicated.
Are Asians Next in Line to be White?
A People’s History of Asian America
Are Asians Next in Line to be White?
Where Did The “Asian Fetish” Come From?
A People’s History of Asian America
Where Did The “Asian Fetish” Come From?
Why “The China Virus” Has Always Been A Part Of U.S. History
A People’s History of Asian America
Why “The China Virus” Has Always Been A Part Of U.S. History

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