YAWP!

YAWP! formed in the summer of 2002 to address the need for a conscious, multi-disciplinary, for-youth- by-youth arts program for Asian/Pacific Islander American (APIA) teens in the Chicagoland area.

Although we self-identify as APIA (Asian Pacific Islander American) we simultaneously redefine the term to be inclusive of West Asian (Middle Eastern), South Asian, and Multi-Racial peoples.

YAWP! exists as a hate-free, anti-racist, anti-sexist, anti-homophobic, safe space for young Asians to create, grow, change, cultivate, reflect, and transform through art as critical and conscious expression. In a city historically unaware, unresponsive, and all too often patronizing of the history, culture and issues of the Asian diaspora, YAWP! exists at the intersection of art and activism, individual growth and community empowerment.