Although Asian diasporic communities in the Americas have long been subjects in photography — most often portrayed as exotic ethnic enclaves — they have also sought to challenge this narrow visual framework. This symposium explores the diverse and creative ways that Asian diasporic communities have mobilized photography.

This interdisciplinary initiative explores the historical trajectories, cultural productions, political mobilizations, and social realities of Asian diasporic communities across the Americas. It draws on Cathy Park Hong’s concept of “minor feelings”—the dissonant emotions arising from the contradictions between lived experiences and dominant narratives about race and identity. This framework challenges us to confront discomfort, name the unspoken, and reimagine how Asian diasporas are represented in photography, how photography shapes new forms of belonging, and how it can intervene in public discourse.

The symposium is generously funded by Vivian Fung and Daniel Cheung.

The symposium is co-organized by the Center for Creative Photography in collaboration with the School of Art, and co-sponsored by the Center for East Asian Studies, University of Arizona.