On July 21, 2024, Media Action Network For Asian Americans (MANAA) hosted a program commemorating the life of legendary actress Anna May Wong at the “Un-masking Anna May Wong” exhibit at the Chinese American Museum in Los Angeles.
Speakers included Guy Aoki, Founding President of MANAA; Tom Eng, longtime MANAA board member; and Anna Wong, niece of Anna May Wong.
Despite getting rave reviews from American critics for her acting in silent films, Wong was often relegated to supporting roles. In order to star in movies, she had to move to Europe in 1928, where she also impressed the critics. Back in the States, she wasn’t allowed to audition for the lead female role in “The Good Earth,” with MGM giving the part to Luise Rainer, who won the Oscar for Best Actress despite donning yellowface make-up.
In American films, Wong often portrayed “The Dragon Lady,” an Asian seductress who stabbed people in the back. Eventually, she rejected such roles, which she realized were hurting perception of Asian Americans.
Wong became the first Asian American woman to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, a year before she died at the age of 56. In 2022, she became the first Asian American to appear on coins (quarters).
Aoki and Eng discussed the actress’ background and how the organization helped improve opportunities for Asian American actors, which led to starring roles in projects like “Fresh Off The Boat,” “Crazy Rich Asians” and “Everything Everywhere All At Once.”
The event reunited many present and past MANAA board members like Miriam Nakamura-Quan, Lillian Lam Lee and Christina Ku and member Dr. Raymond Quan. The exhibition paid tribute to the trailblazer and icon who challenged conventions against all odds and paved the way for greater diversity and representation. Look behind the curtain and explore her life beyond Hollywood.
Thank you to the MANAA social committee for organizing this memorable event. Invitation design by Christina Ku, program by Tom Eng, and promotion by Mitchell Matsumura.