PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Anne Ishii, the executive director of the Asian Arts Initiative, is cultivating creativity by unifying people through the power of art.
"I fervently believe it's an integral part of our lives, and ought to be an integral part of our social curriculum and how we look at the world," said Ishii.
Asian Arts Initiative, located on the edge of Philadelphia's Chinatown, has put a spotlight on the diverse experiences of all communities for 30 years.
As well as offering workshops, exhibitions and performances, the organization pivoted during the pandemic to open studio space to students who lacked internet access.
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Ishii and Asian Arts also opened a listen line, a one-way communication channel where you can let off some steam.
"One thing we're finding ... our community is also lacking is just a repository, that sort of screaming-into-the-pillow feeling of needing to air your opinions, or your confusion, your innermost thoughts," Ishii said.
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Ishii is guiding the initiative as a premiere resource and voice for Asian Americans, building community through creative expression.
This story is part of Asian Americans Making a Difference, a KYW Newsradio series in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Each week this month, KYW's Denise Nakano will profile prominent individuals and community groups in the Philadelphia region to draw attention to the contributions of people of Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage.