Students // Staff // Sponsors


YAWP (yôp) n. Young Asians With Power, formed in the summer of 2002 to address the need for a conscious, multi-disciplinary, for-youth-by-youth arts program for Asian/Pacific Islander American (APIA) teens in the Chicagoland area. Although we self-identify as APIA (Asian Pacific Islander American) we simultaneously redefine the term to be inclusive of West Asian (Middle Eastern), South Asian, and Multi-Racial peoples.

YAWP! exists as a hate-free, anti-racist, anti-sexist, anti-homophobic, safe space for young Asians to create, grow, change, cultivate, reflect, and transform through art as critical and conscious expression. In a city historically unaware, unresponsive, and all too often patronizing of the history, culture and issues of the Asian diaspora, YAWP! exists at the intersection of art and activism, individual growth and community  empowerment.

YAWP!'s inaugural program entitled, Blurring Boundaries, Claiming Voice, involved an 8-week writing workshop which focused on topics of Identity, Stereotypes/Racism, Rituals, Neighborhood, Childhood, Immigration, APIA History, and Gender Roles.

*This summer our 8-week workshop series is hosted by the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) at 5415 N. Clark Street. We'll meet Saturdays, 11am-2pm, from June 16 to August 11.

This summer's YAWP! is not only focused on the writing of our stories but also the performance of our words. Each 3-hour session is an informal workshop format  where youth work on their writings;  learn to be comfortable performing and reading their works; and learn about our collective history and struggles through the words and images of those who have come before us.

YAWP! is free and comprised of an all volunteer staff! It is never too late to be part of YAWP! or to help us out with much needed funding! For more info contact Jed Dulanas at jeddulanas(at)gmail(dot)com or Tina Ramirez at tina.ramirez(at)gmail(dot)com.

YAWP! is supported by the Asian Giving Circle, the Crossroads Fund, Asian Improv aRts Midwest, and individuals dedicated to social justice-based youth arts programming.

Because you are a child of immigrants. Because you've been told to go back home. Because America is your home. Because you know its about more than folkdances and food. Because you are more than just a member of an Asian Club. Because you're not sure which box to check. Because being Asian American is not solely kung fu, Chinese take out, and dry cleaners. Because you've been called a dothead, chink, jap, mut and terrorist. Because you are not a stereotype. Because it's not in the textbooks. Because you want to know about your history. Because it isn't always about a war-torn, ravaged land. Because you are an artist. Because you do not want their sympathy. Because you are a writer.