About Asian Media Access

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW

Incorporated in August 1992, Asian Media Access (AMA) is a comprehensive, media-based community advocacy organization.   AMA is dedicated to using multi-media and technology as tools for social betterment.  AMA recognizes that multi-media and technology are essential for education and communication, in order to mobilize communities, and young people; to engage in understanding and communicating of Pan Asian issues; and to arrive at a participatory decision making process for a safe, supportive environment for all.

By effectively utilizing these different tools, AMA creates as well as presents programs that educate and enrich the communities. We believe the media arts and information technology empower all of us with critical thinking and promote good citizenship—especially important as we prepare young people to be tomorrow’s leaders. Our thought-provoking media exhibitions, resourceful educational products and youth programs encourage deep reflection, challenge previous assumptions, provide solace, and allow participants to develop their own way of connection in timeless works of creation, communication and community building.

Over the years, AMA has received awards recognizing its accomplishments:

• 1993 and 1994 "Community Television Awards"
• 1995 "Nonprofit Mission Awards" for Anti-Racism from Minnesota Council of Nonprofits
• 1998 "St. Paul Neighborhood Network's Access Producer's Award"
• 1998 & 1999 "Award for innovation in the Arts" from 3M
• 2006 Human Rights Award, and
• 2007 Governor’s Best Practices of Community-based Initiative Award

The mission of Asian Media Access is to connect the disconnected. AMA strives to achieve its mission through five distinctive divisions: Film Exhibition, Media Education, Media Production, Media Technology, and RICE (Reaching Immigrant with Care and Education).

Film Exhibition

AMA has been a pioneer in bringing in Asian films to American audiences.   Our regular exhibition programs include "Cinema With Passion" film series showcases some of the contemporary and classic movies from Asian cinema; Annual Chinese Film Showcase which presents films from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, highlighting a special theme; and other festivals including Asian Funniest Commercials; Asian Children's Film Festival which presents various children films from different Asian countries.

Media Education

This division consists of after-school and summer activities offered on a year-round basis focusing on multi-media technology application & production. All media education activities are free of charge to youth who come from immigrant, disadvantaged or low-income families.  Training includes: script writing; media production; digital photography; leadership and critical thinking skills.  AMA also offers a variety of mentorship and volunteering opportunities for college students in different areas year round.

Media Production    

AMA has produced a variety of educational video and television programs.  Through these productions, we bring to the communities important messages and inspiring discussion.  Our past and current productions include the award-winning cable access show, "East Meets West" (since 1989); a bicultural parenting video and curriculum "Helping Youth Succeed" for the University of Minnesota; various Public Education Media Campaign targeting public health issues; and a "Compulsive Gambling Educational Video" for the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

Media Technology

Media Technology is a division that focuses on promoting technology usage among AAPI community, which includes: AMAConnect, a computer service program a low cost for other non-profits; APA ComMNet, an internet network to connect all AAPI community agencies in MN together to share health and social service information on the web in Asian languages.

RICE (Reaching Immigrant with Case and Education)

RICE is a social service component of AMA.  This division includes Ramen Ya transitional housing, employment training and intervention services, designed to challenge dysfunctional cultural norms and gender inequality that lead to runaways and violence against AAPI girls/women.  This Ramen Ya (the Noodle House) transitional housing supports 8 beds for runaway and homeless AAPI girls with safe, dignified living, up to 18 months.