Despite centuries of discriminatory and marginalized treatment, Asian Americans have impacted
American jurisprudence and made laws more just for all.
American law has been shaped by legislators, judges, mayors, governors and presidents, and by the responses to those laws by those the laws impacted. As Asian Americans asserted their right to become naturalized citizens, own land, and get an education, they helped to define those rights for everyone.
When the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 sought to bar one nationality group from the United States, community organizations and courageous individuals fought for justice. When Chinese laundrymen were unfairly denied permits, the Supreme Court victory in Yick Wo v. Hopkins upheld the Equal Protection principles that preserve the rights of people from all backgrounds. When Japanese Americans challenged their unfair targeting, roundup and mass imprisonment during World War II the legal precedents they created continue to protect vulnerable communities.
This ground-breaking documentary will remind viewers that individuals and communities have a duty to stand up for the rule of law and will highlight the role of Asian Americans in fighting for and protecting the legal safeguards that create justice for all.
Educational Resources
An educational resource guide will accompany the documentary to support classroom instruction and community learning.
Project Status: Currently in Production
Expected Release: Spring 2028
This documentary explores the often-overlooked legal legacy of Asian Americans.
At a time when immigrant rights are under attack, remembering this history is essential to resisting injustices. Raising awareness of the role of Asian Americans in codifying equity and inclusion for all, this documentary will give viewers the knowledge and background to combat injustice in their own communities.
Advisory Council
Justice For All is being guided by an accomplished Advisory Council of attorneys, legal scholars, civil rights advocates, educators, and community leaders whose expertise helps ensure the documentary reflects the historical significance and legal impact of the stories it tells.
Edgar Chen
Attorney and Special Policy Advisor, NAPABA
Gabriel Jack Chin
Author, Legal Scholar and Professor of Law, University of California, Davis School of Law
Martin Gold
Attorney, Partner, Capitol Counsel, LLC, Washington, DC
Paul Igasaki
Community and Civil Rights Advocate
Joy Kanwar
Professor, Brooklyn Law School
Chinh Q Le
Legal Director, Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia and Assistant Professor of Law, University of Virginia School of Law
Glenn D Magpantay
U.S. Commissioner for Civil Rights, Attorney, Professor of Law, Brooklyn Law School and Asian American Studies, Hunter College/CUNY
Phil Tajitsu Nash
Co-Chair of AALDEF and Professor of Asian American Studies, University of Maryland
Aryani Ong
Advocate, Community Leader and Attorney, Maryland
Anne Shaw
Attorney and Civil Rights Advocate, Illinois
Mary Szto
Teaching Professor, Syracuse University College of Law
Janelle Wong
Professor, American Studies, Government and Politics and Asian American Studies, University of Maryland
John C. Yang
President and Executive Director, Asian Americans Advancing Justice