Mission Statement
“Asian Hall of Fame was established to educate the public about Asian contributions to the United States and the world, advance early-career development, and promote Asian artistic excellence and cross-cultural narratives.”
— Asian Hall of Fame Articles of Incorporation, April 8, 2020
160-years in the making
Asian Hall of Fame is rooted in the legacy of the Chinn family who immigrated from Canton to San Francisco in 1863. To overcome redlining against Asian families, third-generation Robert Chinn opened United Savings and Loan in 1960, the first Asian bank in America. In 1986, his family founded Robert Chinn Foundation for the betterment of the community. In 2004, Robert Chinn Foundation formed Asian Hall of Fame to elevate Asian leaders in underrepresented areas. Asian Hall of Fame was a private reception for almost two decades until 2020 when its first President & CEO transformed the organization into a public charity and broadened its philanthropic impact.
Celebrate legacy. Advance equity.
In 2020, Asian Hall of Fame became a nonprofit organization. It moved operations to Los Angeles and released a charity album galvanizing leaders against escalating anti-Asian hate. It established an Artist Ambassador program honoring non-Asian icons to broaden its reach to new audiences.
In 2021, Asian Hall of Fame established its founding Global Council and expanded its one-night gala to a full year of programming. It became a leading voice of Stop Asian Hate and its advocacy was featured on ABC, CBS, NBS, PBS, NHK Japan, and others networks.
In 2022, Asian Hall of Fame established its founding Board of Governors. Its forums and festivals awarded $410,000 in Academy fellowships. The Induction announcement secured 3.2 billion media impressions.
Today, Asian Hall of Fame advances cross-cultural collaboration and positive public perception of Asian contributions in the United States and around the world. Year-round work and world-class programming supports female founders, workforce development, and important legislation.
