The Untold Stories of AAPI
The Untold Stories of AAPI, a bilingual book in English and Chinese by Emma Yu, founder of AAPI Youth Voices, illuminates the voices and experiences of Asian American Minnesotans who have made significant contributions to society. This project, spanning from September 2023 to September 2024, brings together personal narratives of individuals whose impact has shaped both Minnesota and the broader American story—reinforcing that Asian American history is American history.
Through these powerful stories, the book highlights the resilience of AAPI individuals—many of whom arrived as refugees, overcame immense challenges, and made meaningful contributions while pursuing their American dreams. By amplifying these often-overlooked voices, The Untold Stories of AAPI fosters a deeper understanding of AAPI cultures and their integral role in the American experience.
Additionally, this book aligns with the author’s advocacy for Minnesota AAPI Bill 5037 and HF3132, aiming to raise awareness and support its passage. The interviews focus on AAPI individuals living in Minnesota, where this legislation would have a direct impact.
Author’s Notes:
As an Asian American, honoring the legacy passed down through generations is deeply personal to me. Growing up in an immigrant family, I felt a powerful pride in my heritage, balanced with the challenge of sometimes feeling like an outsider. Through this book, I aim to share voices that are often unheard, offering readers a window into cultures that may be unfamiliar yet profoundly interwoven with our shared American identity.
My hope is to present The Untold Stories of AAPI to legislators, community leaders, educators, students, and Minnesota residents, inspiring a greater understanding of immigrant life and Asian culture within our communities. But my voice alone is not enough. We need more books, more films, and more stories that illuminate the history and contributions of AAPI individuals. Only by sharing our narratives can we build a truly inclusive and united society.
I am deeply grateful to those who supported me on this journey: my family, the AAPI Youth Voices team, all the interviewees, Daniel Mueller, Gigi Yau, and a special friend, Brian Lin. Brian, I would be honored if you would write the foreword, adding your voice to this project. You have been a tremendous inspiration, and having you open this book would give it even deeper meaning.
