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
Format
• High-Definition Video
• Streaming
• DVD
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.
Phil Tajitsu Nash
Co-Chair, Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund
Aryani Ong
Attorney, Advocate & Community Leader
Anne Shaw
Attorney, Shaw Legal Services, Ltd.
Mary Szto
Teaching Professor, Syracuse University College of Law
John C. Yang
President & Executive Director, Asian Americans Advancing Justice
Edgar Chen
Attorney & Special Policy Advisor, National Asian Pacific American Bar Association
Paul Igasaki
Community & Civil Rights Advocate
Chinh Q. Le
Legal Director, Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia
Assistant Professor of Law, University of Virginia School of Law
Glenn D. Magpantay
U.S. Commissioner for Civil Rights
Attorney & Professor of Law
Special Invitations Extended To
Gabriel J. Chin
Karen Narasaki
Janelle Wong