In an epoch-making leap towards cultural representation and empowerment, the stage has been set for a groundbreaking show that merges public affairs with entertainment, introducing “A Look into Our America.” This new show, conceived and co-produced by visionaries Debbie Lee Ruiz and the show’s host, Yasmine Tanres, is poised to become a pivotal cornerstone in celebrating the stories and accomplishments of the Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (ANHPI) community within the United States. Through captivating interviews, insightful discussions, and compelling narratives, the show endeavors to shine a spotlight on these often marginalized voices, fostering unity and recognition within these vibrant communities.
From Public Officials to Celebrities: A Fresh Perspective on ANHPI Voices
“A Look into Our America” offers a unique perspective by bringing together an array of luminaries from the ANHPI community. The show’s interviews span across public officials, celebrities, entrepreneurs, and individuals whose impact on the ANHPI community has been monumental. By showcasing these inspiring figures, the show aims to amplify their stories, triumphs, and contributions, thereby cultivating a deeper sense of unity and recognition among these diverse communities.
Yasmine Tanres, co-producer and host of the show, articulates the significance of authentic storytelling: “Authenticity is the cornerstone of understanding and appreciating different cultures. Through our show, we aim to celebrate those who have achieved remarkable feats despite facing adversity, challenging stereotypes, and breaking down barriers.”
“A Look into Our America” initially commenced as a temporary monthly program in June 2023. Yet, the show rapidly garnered an overwhelming response from viewers. It found its broadcast home on Chime TV, the exclusive English-language Asian Entertainment cable network in America. Spearheaded by Charter Communications Inc., Chime TV is the pioneering 24/7 channel devoted to sharing the narratives and voices of ANHPI individuals, both domestically and internationally.
Takashi Cheng, Chief Creative Officer of ChimeTV, underscores the importance of this endeavor: “Our mission is to drive equality through media by sharing genuine ANHPI stories. The impact of ‘A Look into Our America’ is immense. By spotlighting these influential individuals, we empower the younger ANHPI generation to dream big and chase their aspirations across diverse industries.”
Photo Credited to: Yasmine Tanres
Unveiling Disparities: A Call for Authentic Representation
Recent studies have cast a glaring light on the stark disparities in Asian Pacific Islander (API) representation across mainstream television and other industries in the United States:
- The 2020 Asian Pacific American Media Coalition (APAMC) report underscored that despite being one of the fastest-growing demographics, APIs occupied just 3.4% of regular roles on prime-time scripted broadcast television.
- Findings from the Media, Diversity, & Social Change Initiative at USC Annenberg revealed that API representation in unscripted and news-style shows remained dismally low, accounting for only 5.6% of all characters.
- The 2021 UCLA Hollywood Diversity Report unveiled that APIs were vastly underrepresented on screen, comprising only 5.9% of all speaking characters across broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms.
Chime TV: A Pioneering Platform for Multigenerational ANHPI Stories
Amidst these disparities, Chime TV emerges as a pivotal player in sharing multigenerational ANHPI stories, arriving at a juncture when authentic representation holds immense value. The acronym CHIME aptly encapsulates the network’s mission – “Changing History in Media Entertainment.” By changing the narrative and amplifying voices that have long been overlooked, Chime TV is at the forefront of a significant shift in media representation.
A tour de force of consciousness, “A Look into Our America” is a transformative piece breaking the confines of conventional media. The visionary minds of Debbie Lee Ruiz and Yasmine Tanres, the creative forces behind the show, envisage a forthcoming era where cultural diversity is warmly welcomed, fostering unity through the influential medium of media. From its initial conception as a monthly endeavor, the show is set to evolve into a bi-weekly staple in Chime TV’s lineup, commencing from October 2023.
“A Look into Our America” represents more than just a show; it symbolizes a transformative movement in media representation. By spotlighting the diverse stories of the ANHPI community, the show strives to bridge the gap of underrepresentation and inspire a new era of cultural celebration, unity, and empowerment. Through its captivating narratives, insightful discussions, and heartfelt interviews, the show is poised to leave an indelible mark on the media landscape, showcasing the resiliency, achievements, and voices of an oft-overlooked community.
