Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is observed in the U.S. throughout May, and recognizes the contributions and influence of Asian American and Pacific Islander Americans to history, culture and achievements of the United States. Arkansas PBS has Asian-themed programming lined up for enjoyment throughout May.
“Asian Americans” is a five-hour film series that delivers a bold, fresh perspective on a history that matters today, more than ever. As America becomes more diverse and more divided while facing unimaginable challenges, how do we move forward together? Told through intimate personal stories, the series will cast a new lens on U.S. history and the ongoing role that Asian Americans have played. “Asian Americans” airs in five parts every Monday beginning May 1, at 6 p.m. on ARPBS-WORLD.
"Betrayed: Surviving an American Concentration Camp"
Discover the story of a group of Japanese Americans and their incarceration by the U.S. government during World War II. Through the compelling voices of survivors Minidoka, a concentration camp in the Idaho desert, "Betrayed" tells a universal story about unjust internment and the loss of civil rights. "Betrayed" airs Tuesday, May 2, 9 p.m.
“American Experience: Mr. Tornado”
The remarkable story of Ted Fujita, whose groundbreaking work in research and applied science saved thousands of lives and helped Americans prepare for and respond to dangerous weather phenomena. “American Experience: Mr. Tornado” airs Monday, May 8, at 9 p.m.
Until his death at the age of 106, Tyrus Wong was America’s oldest living Chinese American artist and one of the last remaining artists from the golden age of Disney animation. The quiet beauty of his Eastern-influenced paintings had a pioneer impact on American art and popular culture. “American Masters: Tyrus” airs Friday, May 12, at 6 p.m. on ARPBS-WORLD.
“American Masters | Nam June Paik: Moon is the Oldest TV”
See the world through the lens of Nam June Paik, the father of video art and coiner of the term “electronic superhighway.” Born in Japan-occupied Korea, Paik went on to become a pillar of the American avant-garde and transformed modern image-making with his sculptures, films and performances. Experience his creative evolution, as Academy Award nominee Steven Yeun reads from Paik’s own writings. “American Masters | Nam June Paik: Moon is the Oldest TV” airs Tuesday, May 16, at 8 p.m.
“American Masters | Waterman-Duke: Ambassador of Aloha”
Narrated by Jason Mamoa, discover the inspiring story and considerable impact of five-time Olympic medalist Duke Kahanamoku. He shattered swimming records and globalized surfing while overcoming racism in a lifetime of personal challenges. “American Masters | Waterman-Duke: Ambassador of Aloha” airs Saturday, May 20, at 7 p.m. on ARPBS-WORLD.
Co-founded by Filipina American and queer teenagers, Fanny is the first all woman band to release an album with a major record label (Warner/Reprise, 1970). Revered by David Bowie, meet the most ground-breaking rock group you’ve never heard of… yet. “Fanny: The RIght to Rock” airs Monday, May 22 at 9 p.m.
When Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Bill Einreinhofer arrived in China 30-plus ago, he had no idea it was the first of many visits. He would spend much of his professional career making stories in and about China, locating rare historical footage. He interviewed countless people about China, its culture and its history. Many of those people are now gone. But their stories live on through him. “China: Frame By Frame” airs Thursday, May 25, at 8 p.m. on ARPBS-WORLD. 
“American Masters | Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir”
An intimate portrait of the groundbreaking writer that interweaves archival imagery, including home movies and personal photographs, animation and original interviews to tell the inspiring story of Tan’s life and career. “American Masters | Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir” airs Saturday, May 27, at 7 p.m.
TUNE IN:
See our most recently updated schedule anytime at myarkansaspbs.org/schedule.
WAYS TO WATCH:
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