Jon Osaki

Jon Osaki is an award-winning filmmaker who focuses on activism and narrative change through which he has addressed issues such as the targeting of immigrant communities, reparations for the Black community, and the model minority myth. His initial interest in film grew from his desire to raise awareness of critical social justice issues he has encountered over this thirty-year career as a youth development activist. His films have been screened on Capitol Hill in Washington DC, at national policy conferences, the National Judicial College, film festivals, and broadcast nationally.

As a life-long child and youth development advocate, Jon believes in using film to bring stories and history to life for younger generations. He is motivated to inspire the next generation of storytellers to keep vital chapters of this country's history alive and relevant for the leaders of tomorrow.

Jon's latest film, Making Waves: The Rise of Asian America documents stories of activism and efforts to amplify Ethnic Studies as a strategy to address present and future waves of anti-Asian hate. In addition to Making Waves, Jon's first film in the New Day collection, Alternative Facts: The Lies of Executive Order 9066, reveals the dark, twisted plot of conspiracy, deceit, and one of the most nefarious cover-ups in American history. Reparations, explores the four-century struggle to seek repair and atonement for slavery in the United States. Not Your Model Minority examines the harm created by this divisive narrative as well as opportunities to build power and make progress towards addressing systemic racism in America.