The Racial Formation of Asian American Non-Profit Work in Orange County, California

Abstract

This article examines how a distinct racialized identity of Asian Americans is asserted through the work of ethnic non-profit organizations in Orange County, California. This area is home to the third-largest Asian American population in the United States but also has historically been seen as a suburban region with limited infrastructure to support ethnic communities. Using a regional racial formation theory framework, this study shows how diversity has been integral to understanding the Asian American identity, but that the regional context matters in how we define this pan-ethnic identity and its diversity. This narrative of diversity expressed by non-profit organization community leaders contribute to a re-articulation of an Asian American identity that underscores the distinct mix of Asian ethnic groups that contrasts with older urban immigrant gateways; challenges the model minority stereotype through mental health and anti-Asian discrimination advocacy; and emphasizes place and issue-based work that extends beyond their ethnic communities. The findings highlight how Asian American non-profit work provides lessons for broadly addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion in public administration practice.

Keywords:

• Asian Americans
• non-profit organizations
• diversity
• post-suburban areas
• race
• racial formation

Acknowledgments

The author would like to acknowledge Dr. Linda Trinh Vo, Sylvia Kim, and former staff of Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Orange County for their contributions to the research.

Notes

1 The city of Santa Ana had a Chinatown in the late 1800s, but it was burned down in 1906 as a part of anti-Chinese sentiment that accused Chinese Americans of spreading diseases. The neighborhood was not re-established.