Very Asian Foundation Delivers Diverse Books To Two St. Paul Schools

In a heartwarming gesture, Gia Vang, co-founder of the Very Asian Foundation, recently paid a visit to some fortunate students. Alongside journalist Michelle Lee, Vang is on a mission to introduce students to a wider and more diverse range of books. Inspired by high school students in Saint Louis who requested more Asian American literature in their schools, the Very Asian Foundation and its partners are working towards making that change a reality across the country.

A Mandarin Immersion Academy's Surprise Delivery

At a gaming Mandarin immersion academy in Saint Paul, students were in for a special treat. A delivery arrived, brimming with stories that they could see themselves in. One such book, titled "Eyes That Kiss in the Corners," is part of a larger collection by NHP I authors. The students welcomed these wonderful books, which will now find a permanent home in their school library.

The Very Asian Foundation: Championing Asian American Youth Literature

Co-founders Gia Vang and Michelle Lee established the Very Asian Foundation as part of a broader vision to infuse Asian American youth literature into schools and libraries. They understand the significance of representation, particularly for Asian American students who often find it difficult to connect with characters that mirror their own experiences.

Growing up, access to diverse literature was not readily available for Vang and Lee. However, their experiences and the diverse student body in the city—comprised of approximately 40-42% Asian students—made it clear that representation matters. The Very Asian Foundation's May Book Project, which boasts a list of 250 meticulously curated books, ensures high quality reads that students can relate to and feel represented by.

Creating an Academic Approach to Diverse Libraries

The Very Asian Foundation has gone above and beyond in their mission to bring Asian American youth literature into schools and libraries. By partnering with "We Need Diverse Books," they have donated over 70 books to two schools in Saint Paul. Additionally, they have developed a rubric and a toolkit to help educators in creating diverse libraries.

The rubric serves as an academic approach to building a robust and varied library collection. It focuses on ensuring that the books selected are of outstanding quality and offer diverse perspectives. By celebrating diversity and encouraging young readers to see themselves as the main characters in these stories, the Very Asian Foundation is fostering an environment where children can explore their own identities and embrace their uniqueness.

The Very Asian Foundation's dedication to inclusivity and representation in literature is commendable. Not only does it provide a platform for Asian American authors and stories, but it also highlights the importance of choice and the power of seeing oneself reflected in literature.

In their recent visit to Phalen Lake Munk Studies Magnet, the Very Asian Foundation and its partners continued spreading the joy of reading by donating more books. These acts of kindness and generosity are not only creating an impact on individual students, but also shaping a future where diversity in literature is the new norm.

As we applaud the efforts of the Very Asian Foundation, let us be inspired to seek out and celebrate the rich depth of diversity in all aspects of life. By championing inclusivity in literature, we empower future generations to embrace their heritage and break down cultural barriers with every turn of the page.