Jessica Pegula is the top-ranked American tennis player

Jessica Pegula is working towards the next Grand Slam, the French Open in May.

Jessica Pegula just proved once again why she is the most resilient force in tennis, successfully defending her Credit One Charleston Open title on Sunday. 

As a result of her win in Charleston, the 32-year old Pegula is now the top-ranked American woman, having returned to a career-high ranking of world No. 3 overtaking Coco Gauff, who had previously been the top-ranked American, to claim the spot.

“I guess my super power for this week is, I don't know, maybe my stamina, my mental fortitude," said Pegula after her victory over Ukrainian Yuliia Starodubtseva. "Maybe just a little bit lucky,"she added.

In a clinical 6-2, 6-2 masterclass against Starodubtseva, Pegula became the first woman since Serena Williams in 2013 to go back-to-back in the Lowcountry.

For those tracking the steady rise of Asian American icons in sports, Pegula’s victory is more than just another trophy for the mantle. As a proud Korean American — the daughter of Kim Pegula, who was born in Seoul — Jessica continues to break barriers with a lunch-pail work ethic that has become her trademark on the WTA Tour.

Never say die

This wasn't an easy walk in the park. Before the dominant final, Pegula survived a gauntlet with four straight three-set matches leading up to the final and in which she trailed at least 0-2 in every deciding set of those matches. In total, she spent over 11 hours on court before even reaching Sunday's match.

The transition from hard court to clay may have something to do with her long matches earlier in the tournament. 

“I do think that this week is something that I can really build off of,” she said. “There's a lot of things that I feel like I can get better at that I'm not doing that well right now, that I feel have a lot to do with the surface change, just my footing, my footwork, like decision making."

Following her title defense in Charlotte, Pegula remains rock-solid at World No. 5 in the WTA rankings.

Charlotte is her second title of the 2026 season, following a win at the Dubai Tennis Championships in February. Pegula now leads the WTA with 24 victories this season, moving ahead of No. 1-ranked Aryna Sabalenka.

View from the edge

She is officially the top-ranked Asian American tennis player in the world (male or female). While there is incredible talent across the continent—including stars like Leylah Fernandez (the top-ranked Asian Canadian) and Naomi Osaka — Pegula currently holds the highest global ranking of any player with North American-Asian heritage.

Pegula is shifting her focus to the European red clay as she prepares for the grueling road to the French Open in Paris which starts May 18. But first, her next tournament is The Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart, Germany April 13-18.

Her "never-say-die" attitude — proven by her 11-hour marathon week in Charleston—is exactly the mindset needed to survive the European clay circuit.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

Asian American film festival season kicks off in L.A. and S.F.

There is a growing audience for the works shown at Asian American film festivals.

The 2026 Asian American film festival season is officially hitting its stride, and if you haven’t heard the buzz surrounding The A List, you’re clearly not checking your feed. 

Asian American film festivals are not just about seeing movies; they are vital lifelines for a community still fighting to be seen, heard, and understood on its own terms. While Hollywood occasionally pats itself on the back for a single "breakthrough" hit, these festivals have been doing the heavy lifting for decades, proving that our stories are not a monolith or a trend.

As VC Film Fest (the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival) and San Francisco’s CAAMFest kick off the festivities, the community is showing up in force to celebrate stories that refuse to stay on the sidelines.

The opening night feature at CAAMfest in San Francisco will be The A List: 15 Stories from Asian and Pacific Diasporas, the HBO Original documentary everyone is talking about. Directed by Eugene Yi, it’s a high-wattage deep dive into the lives of icons who paved the way.

Among the heavyweights featured are: Sandra Oh (Korean Canadian), Kumail Nanjiani (Pakistani American), Tammy Duckworth (Thai American) and trailblazer Connie Chung (Chinese American).

It’s more than a highlight reel; it’s a raw, intimate look at the struggle for visibility and the weight of being "the first." The documentary serves as a definitive roadmap of the AAPI experience in media, bridging the gap between industry legends and the next generation.

Asian Americans who have become role models including, from left:  Kumail Nanjani,
Tammy Duckworth and Sandra Oh,  are interviewed in The A List documentary.

The "Big Two" are setting the tone for the year with a slate that spans the entire diaspora.

Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival (VC Film Fest)

Celebrating its 42nd year, this is one of the most significant festivals for AANHPI storytellers. eneral ticketing goes on sale April 6 at 12 PM PST at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival site. Opening night features Lucky Lu directed by Lloyd Lee Choi. Here are some of the featured films:

• The Furious (Chinese/Indonesian): A high-octane special presentation starring Miao Xie and Joe Taslim. It’s a masterclass in martial arts choreography.
• Honeyjoon (Kurdish American): A touching mother-daughter dramedy from Lilian T. Mehrel that explores grief and heritage with a light, humorous touch.
• Before the Moon Falls (Cambodian American): A spotlight documentary by Kimberlee Bassford that captures the delicate balance of cultural preservation.

CAAMFest (San Francisco)

The nation's leading showcase for Asian American film, music, and food. Opening Night: The A-List: 15 Stories from Asian and Pacific Diasporas followed by a gala at the Asian Art Museum. Here are sme key films in the festival:

• Forge (Chinese/Singaporean American): This buzzy centerpiece by Jing Ai Ng follows siblings in Miami running a high-stakes art forgery ring. It’s slick, stylish, and deeply human.
• Traces of Home (Palestinian/Egyptian American): Serving as the Closing Night film, Colette Ghunim takes viewers on a visceral journey to find her parents' ancestral homes.
• Mabuhay (Filipino American): A narrative feature that dives deep into the specific rhythms and challenges of the Pinoy experience in the States.
• Jersey Boy (Indian American): A narrative selection making waves for its sharp writing and relatable exploration of second-generation identity.

---

Cross-over hits

• Diamond Diplomacy (Japanese/American): Screening across the circuit, Yuriko Gamo Romer explores the shared history of baseball, from the professional leagues to the fields behind barbed wire in incarceration camps.
• Y Vân: The Lost Sounds of Saigon (Vietnamese American): Closing out the SDAFF Spring Showcase, this doc profiles a legendary rock 'n roll figure, reclaiming a piece of musical history often lost to war.
  

---

Besides the Big Two, Asian American film festivals will be held in other cities this Spring and Summer.

• Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) – 'Ōpio Fest: April 17–19. This spring weekend in Honolulu at the Consolidated Theatres Kahala focuses on the "Future of Film," spotlighting student creatives (K-12) alongside family-friendly premieres. 

• Seattle Asian American Film Festival (SAAFF): May 29–31. A vital hub for the Pacific Northwest, SAAFF continues to amplify North American Asian and Pacific Islander voices. 

• San Diego Asian Film Festival (SDAFF): April 24-26. This is one of the largest media arts events in North America dedicated to Asian American cinema. A "mini-festival" highlighting over a dozen independent films. Opening Night: The Road to Sydney, a documentary about Filipino master dance choreographer Sydney Loyola.

• Austin Asian American Film Festival (AAAFF): June 24–28. Held at the AFS Cinema, this festival is a key platform for Asian and Asian American cinema in the heart of Texas.

A scene from 'Republic of Pipolipinas, 'a mockumentary, from the Philippines that is making
its North American premiere this year at the San Diego festival.

Fall Highlights

A second flurry of film festivals takes place in the fall.

• 49th Asian American International Film Festival (July 30 – August 9) Known as "The First Home to Asian American Cinema," this is the longest-running Asian American festival in the US. Organized by Asian CineVision, it is held in venues throughout New York City. The program is still being finalized.

• Hawaii International Film Festival (Main Fall Festival): October 15–25, 2026. The 46th annual flagship event will span the islands, continuing its mission to bridge the East and West through adventurous storytelling.
  
  
• Silicon Valley Asian Pacific Film Festival: October 23–25, 2026. Based in Sunnyvale, California, this festival highlights the intersection of tech, culture, and cinema in the valley.

• San Diego Asian Film Festival (SDAFF): Typically held in November. This is one of the largest media arts events in North America dedicated to Asian American cinema.

View from the edge

The film festivals give filmmakers a chance to show their talent. Before they did Hollywood directors, Ang Lee, Mira Nair, Wayne Wang and Justin Lin were showing their wares in film festivals often telling stories and documenting history unseen and unknown by mainstream audiences.

For too long, the industry has viewed Asian American stories through a narrow lens—Asian Americans are often relegated to sidekicks, martial artists, computer nerds or the perpetual foreigner. Film festivals like AAIFF or CAAMFest flip that script. They provide a sanctuary for "niche" stories that the big studios are too afraid to touch. Here, we see the full spectrum of our lives: the messy, the experimental, the queer, and the mundane. It’s where a documentary about a local Chinatown grocery store is treated with the same reverence as a high-octane thriller.

As we look toward the 2026 festival season, the stakes feel higher than ever with the rise of anti-immigrant rhetoric, threats to birthright citizenship and history being rewritten erasing. We don't just watch these films; we witness our own survival.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

A closer look: Cecilia Wang presented a "master class" in defense of birthright citizenship

Cecilia Wang emerges into prominence for her performance at SCOTUS.

During the high-stakes showdown at the Supreme Court on April 1, 2026, ACLU National Legal Director Cecillia Wang didn't just show up to argue; she showed up to defend the very fabric of American identity. 

In the landmark case of Trump v. Barbara, Wang delivered a masterclass in constitutional law, standing firm against the administration’s attempt to dismantle birthright citizenship.

The energy in the chamber was electric as Wang anchored her argument in a simple, undeniable truth: the 14th Amendment means what it says. She told the justices that the American rule is clear — everyone born here is a citizen alike. It was a powerful opening that reminded the court that this principle was designed to be beyond the reach of any temporary political whim.

Wang clarified that this phrase in the 14th Amendment, based on English Common Law, applies to virtually everyone "born on US soil." She argued it excludes only a "closed set of exceptions," such as children of foreign diplomats or invading soldiers, who are subject to another sovereign's jurisdiction.

        RELATED: Justices skeptical on Trump regime's arguments

For Wang, this wasn't just a legal theory; as the daughter of immigrants from Taiwan  and a birthright citizen herself, her defense of the 14th Amendment carried a personal resonance that felt deeply authentic.

The legal battle centers on an executive order attempting to exclude children born in the US to certain non-citizen groups — including those who are here on special visas and DACA recipients — from automatic citizenship.

Wang’s performance was widely hailed by legal observers as a "masterclass" in constitutional law. Although well-known in legal circles, she is not one to grab the spotlight. From relative obscurity from her April 1 SCOTUS appearance, she emerges as a real heroic, brilliant figure. Her arguments focused on the bedrock principles of the 14th Amendment and the historical precedent that has defined American citizenship for over 150 years. 

“Cecillia Wang is one of the country’s great litigators, which is why she’s the ACLU’s top lawyer," said aid ACLU Executive Director Anthony D. Romero.

The reception from the bench suggests Wang’s strategy hit the mark. Even some of the conservative justices seemed skeptical of the government’s "quirky" legal theories. 

Chief Justice Roberts notably pushed back on the idea that modern issues like "birth tourism" should change how we interpret the Constitution. Meanwhile, Solicitor General D. John Sauer faced a frosty reception, with Justices Roberts and Gorsuch questioning the logic of the administration’s stance.

While Wang admitted she would be happy to win on statutory grounds, she made it clear that a firm constitutional ruling is what the country needs for long-term stability.

The legal community is buzzing, with many observers noting that the ACLU’s team made up of co-counsels from several justice advocates including the Asian Law Caucus, seems to have the upper hand, but that doesn't guarantee a win for the Constitution. The conservative majority of SCOTUS is infamous for ignoring legal precedents and siding with wishes of the Trump regime such as right for women to determine their health choices, affirmative action and the weakening of voting rights.

For now, we hold our breath as we wait until the end of June 2026 for the final word.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

US foodies celebrate Filipino Food Month

Ten years ago, I wrote a post bemoaning the lack of respect for Filipino food. Today, I write about Filipino Food Month and Michelin stars for FilAm restaurants.

Ten years after I wrote about the Rodney Dangerfield of Asian cuisines, we're celebrating Filipino Food Month for April in 2026. Filipino American communities all over the United States are hosting major celebrations that range from street food festivals to high-end culinary showcases, all centered on the theme "Connected by Taste: The Filipino Food in the Flavors of ASEAN."

For Filipino Food Month 2026, the theme is "Connected by Taste: The Filipino Food in the Flavors of ASEAN," celebrating how Filipino cuisine bridges cultures across Southeast Asia. 

In Filipino homes, food has always been the glue that holds everyone together. Even when family members are scattered across cities, islands, or countries, it’s the meals they come home to that reconnect them—favorite dishes waiting on the table, stories shared over second helpings, and the familiar invitation: “Kain na.”

Filipino cuisine is the ultimate fusion fare before fusion became a fad. Filipinos have taken the food from China, Malaysia, Indian, Spain and Japan have adapted them into indigenous techniques and local ingredients, iesisig on fries, adobo hot wings, lechon, well, its hard to improve on lechon.

        FYI: High-end Filipino cuisine in the Napa Valley

In recent years, Filipino and Filiipino American chefs have ventured beyond traditional recipes to adapt traditional recipes and ingredients to create modern takes on the dishes that have defined the cuisine.

As more and more people become acquainted with Philippine cuisine, the inaugural Michelin Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026 was officially unveiled on October 30, 2025.

Across the US, community organizations, restaurants, and consulates are hosting festivals, street fairs, and intimate dinners to highlight Pinoy flavors. Here are a few of them:

Los Angeles & Southern California

The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles is leading regional efforts to highlight Filipino food as a cultural asset.

• Kamayan Dinner with Chef Barb Batiste: A family-style feast curated by the chef behind B Sweet and Big Boi, designed to honor traditional customs by eating with your hands.
• Barkada Sessions #4 (Glendale): A music and food showcase on April 4, 2026, featuring Fil-Am artists, local food vendors, and popular ube and calamansi beers from Brewyard Beer Company.
• Filipino Weekend Reception (Fullerton): Taking place April 17, 2026, at the Fullerton Community Center, this reception features food, raffles, and Disney-themed prizes.
• Fiesta in Lomita: A community festival on April 18 featuring Filipino BBQ, entertainment, and novelty items.
• ASCEND - Rising Artists (Cerritos): A live concert and cultural celebration held on April 4, 2026, at Kusina Filipina.

San Francisco & Bay Area

The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco has partnered with the Filipino Food Movement to promote the region's diverse culinary scene.

• "Connected by Taste" Mini-Series: Starting April 5, 2026, the Consulate is releasing a social media series showcasing various Filipino restaurants throughout the Bay Area.
• Filipino Fiesta Fest Social Night (San Jose): A kickoff event for the larger May festival, was held on March 28 at the Pete Be Center featuring classic dishes and karaoke.
• Aurora Kusina Weekly Features: Throughout April, this local favorite is sharing spotlighted dishes, cupboard essentials, and traditional snacks weekly on Instagram.
• Ube Festival 2026: While taking place slightly later on June 20, 2026, at the Cow Palace, this major event is often highlighted during Food Month as a culmination of the ube culinary trend.

Hawaii

Hawaii's celebrations focus on the deep-rooted plantation history and contemporary fusion of the islands.

• Filipino Food Month at FilCom (Waipahu): The Filipino Community Center serves as a hub for cultural activities and food heritage talks throughout the month.
• Flores de Mayo & Filipino Fiesta: A major festival and market on May 2, 2026, at the FilCom Center that serves as the official culmination of the spring food celebrations.
• Local Specialties in Waipahu: Top-rated spots like Minasa Hawaii (known for ube churros and lechon fries) and Da Ultimate Grindz are expected to feature seasonal specials honoring the month's theme.
• INSPO! 2026 (Honolulu): A community fundraiser on April 11, 2026, at Kaimukī Middle School that highlights locally inspired meals and community sharing. 

Major festivals and street fairs) 

• Chi-Ibigan 2: A Night for the Barkada (Chicago, IL)

Date: Saturday, April 4,  6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Location: Ravenswood Event CenterDetails: This massive collaboration features over 16 chefs and restaurants, including Bayan Ko, Boonie's, and Kasama. The event includes tasting stations, an open bar, karaoke, mahjong, and DJs.

• Ubeland NYC
  Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  Location: Broadway between 12th and 13th Streets
  Details: Organized by Philippines Fest, this outdoor festival features 20+ vendors dedicated to ube (purple yam). Expect creative dishes like ube paella, ube burnt Basque cheesecake, and various sweet treats.

• 15th Annual Filipino Festival Spring Edition (Peoria, AZ)
  Date: April 11–12, 2026
  Location: Centennial Park Plaza
  Details: Billed as "Filipino Food Freedom Month," this fiesta features over 50 vendors, vibrant traditional dances, local art, and family-friendly games.

Regional events

• San Antonio, TX: Following a successful National Lumpia Week in mid-March, local Filipino-owned businesses continue to offer specials throughout April as part of the broader month-long observance.

• Portland, OR: The Filipino American Association of Portland and Vicinity (FAAPVI) is kicking off its 2026 Cultural Immersion Program in April with events like the Governor's Marketplace to celebrate the month and support AAPI businesses.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

Supreme Court questions Trump regime's arguments against 'birthright citizenship'

Hundreds of people demonstrated at the Supreme Court.

ANALYSIS

It was a scene unlike any in the 237-year history of the Supreme Court. On April 1, the high court heard arguments in Trump v. Barbara, a case that could dismantle the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of birthright citizenship. But the real story wasn't just the law — it was the atmosphere.

In a move that sent shockwaves through the capital, Donald Trump personally attended the arguments. Sitting in the front row, his presence felt less like a show of interest and more like a physical weight on the proceedings. To many observers, it was a blatant attempt to intimidate the Justices on their own turf—a "hush" falling over the chamber as the Commander-in-Chief stared down the bench.

The plaintiffs

The plaintiffs in Trump v. Barbara are a nationwide class of children born on US soil to immigrant parents, represented by three named individuals — Barbara, Susan, and Mark — who are using pseudonyms to protect their identities. They are challenging a Trump administration executive order aimed at denying birthright citizenship.

• Barbara: A Honduran asylum applicant living in the US since 2024, who feared retaliation.
• Susan: A Taiwanese citizen residing in Utah who was on a student visa when her child was born in April 2025.
• Mark: A Brazilian applicant for permanent residence living in Florida whose wife is undocumented and gave birth to their son in March 2025.

General Counsel D. John Sauer led the charge for the Trump regime, arguing that birthright citizenship is a "gift" that has been misapplied. He contended that "subject to the jurisdiction" implies a "political allegiance" that children of undocumented immigrants simply don't possess.

Sauer’s argument hit a disastrous snag when Justice Sotomayor pressed him on how this "allegiance" test would apply to Native Americans. In a stunning gaffe, Sauer appeared to stumble over the 1924 Indian Citizenship Act, momentarily suggesting that the citizenship of indigenous peoples might also be subject to federal "re-evaluation" under his new criteria. 

The courtroom went cold; it was a moment that laid bare the radical nature of the government's position. 

Cecilia Wang, representing the plaintiffs for the ACLU, wasn't deterred by the presidential glare. She grounded her argument in the 1898 Wong Kim Ark precedent and the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952.

"The Constitution does not have an 'unless' clause for those the President finds inconvenient," Wang argued. Outside the court, she was even more blunt: "This isn’t just an attack on immigrants; it’s an attack on the very definition of what it means to be American. You cannot rewrite the 14th Amendment with a Sharpie."

Skeptical justices

Justices across the ideological spectrum, including the activist conservatives who have been accused of being a rubber stamp for Trump policies, appeared broadly skeptical of the administration’s position.

Chief Justice Roberts pushed back against the "new world" argument, noting that while the world may change, "we have the same Constitution."

When Sauer pointed out that the US is one of the few countries to have birthright citizenship, Justice Kavanaugh questioned “(why) we try to interpret American law with American precedent based on American history.” “[W]hy should we be thinking about,” he asked, the “many other countries in the world (that) don’t have this?”

Justice Sotomayor expressed concern over the potential for the order’s logic to be used retroactively in the future, despite current administration claims.

Neil Gorsuch expressed disdain for the government's reliance on "Roman law sources," which he noted were far removed from the 1868 intent of the 14th Amendment.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett questioned the feasibility of the order, asking how the government would adjudicate "intent to stay" at the time of birth, noting that such a standard could be difficult to apply even to U.S. citizens.

Justices across the political spectrum frequently emphasized the "plain meaning" of the Constitution, viewing the Citizenship Clause as straightforward and unequivocal.

After arguing in behalf of birthright citizenship, the ACLU's Ceclia Wang addressed the demonstrators outside the SCOTUS building.

Views from the edge

If you strip away the high-minded talk about "jurisdiction," the view from the edge is clear: this is about racial demographics, power, and the ballot box.

Look closer at the broader strategy. This isn't just about an obscure legal clause; it’s a foundational piece of a larger effort to reshape the American electorate thereby appeasing the White supremacists who form a vocal segment of Trump's followers. 

The math is simple:

New immigrants and their first-generation children have historically leaned Democratic. By challenging the citizenship of those born here, the Trump administration isn't just "securing the border"; they are effectively attempting to prune the future voter rolls before they even exist.

This fits a pattern we’ve seen with the push for citizenship questions on the census and tighter registration rules. If you can change who counts as a citizen, you change who gets to vote, how districts are drawn, and who holds power for the next fifty years.

By framing birthright citizenship as a "loophole," the administration is signaling that American identity is a privilege to be granted by the state, rather than a right guaranteed by the soil. We see this philosophy in action already: White South Africans are welcomed with open arms but those from so-called "S--thole countries," are being deported.

While the administration frames this as a "national security" necessity, the reality is a raw political calculation. They aren't just trying to stop people from coming in; they're trying to make sure that those who do stay never get a seat at the table.

As Trump exited the courtroom, the legal community was left to process a day where the line between executive power and judicial independence was stretched to its breaking point. The ruling is expected in late June or early July, just in time for the "American experiment" to celebrate its 250th birthday.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

Who is Cecilia Wang, the lawyer who will defend 'birthright citizenship' at the Supreme Court

Cecillia Wang, national legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union and a second-generation American, will argue against Donald Trump's attempt to get rid of birthright citizenship in the landmark case, Trump v. Barbara, at the Supreme Court tomorrow (April 1).

“This is the case of the century — the stakes are unfathomably high. Can a president of the United States unilaterally end birthright citizenship by executive order — overriding more than 150 years of settled constitutional law, and redefining who is recognized as American at birth? Absolutely not,”said ACLU Executive Director Anthony D. Romero.

“Cecillia Wang is one of the country’s great litigators, which is why she’s the ACLU’s top lawyer. She has decades of experience fighting government overreach, including two trial victories against Sheriff Joe Arpaio’s racial profiling and contempt of court. Now, she’s up against a more formidable adversary as this case is a linchpin to Donald Trump and Stephen Miller’s agenda.

        FYI: Go deeper into the arguments for birthright citizenship

"Our clients are in the best possible hands with Cecillia Wang and this incredible co-counsel team presenting arguments — they will do all it takes to make sure birthright citizenship remains a cornerstone of our democracy.”

Wang was born in Oregon, the daughter of immigrants from Taiwan.  Her own citizenship was made possible by the repeal of racially discriminatory immigration laws through the enactment of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, and by the 14th Amendment’s birthright citizenship guarantee. Those reforms grew directly out of the anti-slavery and civil rights movements and expanded who has citizenship and belonging in the United States.

The groups will argue that the administration’s assault on birthright citizenship — the legal principle guaranteed by the 14th Amendment that every baby born in the United States is a U.S. citizen — flouts the Constitution’s dictates, longstanding Supreme Court precedent, a statute passed by Congress, and fundamental American values.

“It’s deeply troubling that we must waste precious judicial resources relitigating what has been settled constitutional law for over a century,” said Aarti Kohli, executive director of Asian Law Caucus, and co-counsel.

“Every federal judge who has considered this executive order has found it unconstitutional. If implemented, this policy would force all parents — including U.S. citizens — to prove their immigration status just to get a birth certificate or Social Security number for their baby, inevitably leading to racial profiling based on names, appearance, or accent.”

Wang personal history as a second-generation Asian American which informs her advocacy.

Earlier in her 20-year career, Wang directed the ACLU’s Immigrants’ Rights Project, which won cases involving immigration detention, racial profiling, and discriminatory state and federal immigration laws.

During the first Trump administration, she worked on successful challenges to the Muslim ban, family separation policies, and the attempt to add a citizenship question to the 2020 census. She also led successful litigation against former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.

“No president can change the 14th Amendment’s fundamental promise of citizenship,” said Wang. “For over 150 years, it has been the law and our national tradition that everyone born on U.S. soil is a citizen from birth. The federal courts have unanimously held that President Trump’s executive order is contrary to the Constitution, a Supreme Court decision from 1898, and a law enacted by Congress. We look forward to putting this issue to rest once and for all in the Supreme Court this term.”

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

Supreme Court to hear case questioning "birthright citizenship."

Hannah Lu in front the United States Supreme Court Building.

UPDATED: Earlier versions had an incorrect date for the hearing. April 1 is the correct day SCOTUS will hear the arguments for and against birthright citizenship.

Get ready, because the Supreme Court is about to dive into the ultimate constitutional cage match. On April 1, the nine Justices will hear oral arguments in Trump v. Barbara, the case that could officially end birthright citizenship as we know it.

Here’s the skinny: Day one of his second term, Trump signed an executive order saying, "If your parents aren't citizens or green card holders, you don’t get a US passport just for being born here." It’s been winding through the courts ever since, but now it’s hitting the big stage.

The daughter of immigrants from Taiwan, Cecilia Wang, the National Legal Director of the ACLU, is presenting the oral arguments to the Supreme Court on April 1 defending birthright citizenship in Trump v. Barbara. She is arguing on behalf of challengers, including the ACLU , Stop AAPI Hate, Asian Americans Advancing Justice and NAACP LDF,

As of March 30, 2026, every lower court that has considered challenges to President Trump's January 2025 executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship has ruled it unconstitutional. These courts have consistently found that the order violates the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment. 

Key lower court rulings

1. US Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit: A divided panel in Trump v. Washington ruled Trump's executive order invalid, stating it "contradicts the plain language of the Fourteenth Amendment." ruling the 1898 Supreme Court decision in United States v. Wong Kim Ark guarantee citizenship to almost everyone born on US soil, regardless of their parents' immigration status.

2. US District Court for the District of New Hampshire: Judge Joseph N. Laplante issued a preliminary injunction and provisionally certified a nationwide class of babies born on or after February 20, 2025, who would be denied citizenship under the order.
District Courts in Washington State and Maryland: Federal judges in these states also entered injunctions blocking the order early in the litigation process.

While lower courts have blocked the order on its merits, the Supreme Court tried to assuage Trump's anger by issuing a procedural ruling in June 2025 (Trump v. CASA, Inc.) that curtailed the use of "universal" or nationwide injunctions by district courts. This temporarily allowed the order to take effect in states that had not challenged it, but it did not address the constitutionality of the order itself.

This isn't just a legal tweak; it’s a full-on identity crisis for the country. If the Court sides with the administration, it rewrites the rules for millions of families. If they toss it, it’s a massive blow to the "America First" legal agenda.

The ACLU's Cecilia Wang will defend birthright citizenship in front of the Supreme Court.

Predicting SCOTUS

I've given up any hope that the six conservative justices will find a spine to make a ruling based on precedent and the Constitution instead of bending over backwards  and twisting rational thinking in order to give Trump what he wants.

However, while the 6-3 conservative majority has frequently backed the Trump administration's broad executive powers, their commitment to originalism and textualism — the idea that the law means exactly what it says — could actually be the administration's undoing here.

Lower court judges — including many Republican appointees—have uniformly blocked the order, calling it a direct violation of the 14th Amendment. If the conservative justices follow their own logic on "original meaning," the administration faces a very uphill battle to get five votes for a total reinterpretation of citizenship.

The conservative majority has handed Trump wins on deportations and ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS). However, those cases focused on statutes (laws passed by Congress) where the President has massive leeway.

The difference is that birthright citizenship is a Constitutional right. Overturning United States v. Wong Kim Ark would be a much heavier lift than just approving a new border policy.

View from the edge

If SCOTUS rules against birthright citizenship an estimated 255,000 children born in the U.S. each year could be denied citizenship if the order is upheld. Projections suggest this could add 4.8 million non-citizen children to the population by 2045.

Many Asian families arrive on professional visas and wait decades for green cards. Under this order, children born during that long wait could be rendered "stateless" or left in legal limbo, denied Social Security numbers and the basic "right to have rights." Immigrants with J-1 visas who have children born while working in the US as nurses, teachers, oil workers or crews of ships would be in the same predicament.

If a generation of our children is denied citizenship, they lose the right to vote and run for office. It’s a direct hit to the growing political power of the AAPI community.
Affected children could face "irreparable harm," including vulnerability to deportation, loss of access to critical health care and nutrition, and legal "statelessness."

SCOTUS is expected to rule on the case in June. The Supreme Court's decision will determine what the United States will be like on its 250th birthday. 

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

DreamWorks’ 'Forgotten Island' trailer drops, sparking excitement among Filipino Americans

Best friends face a dilemma in "Forgotten Island" which draws on Philippine mythology.

The internet just got a little louder, and for Filipino Americans, a whole lot more familiar. 

DreamWorks Animation released the official trailer for Forgotten Island on March 25, 2026, and it’s not just the animation that’s turning heads—it’s the jeepneys, the balisongs, and the unmistakable silhouette of a Manananggal soaring across the screen.

For a community that has long waited for its moment in the mainstream animation spotlight, this isn't just a movie; it’s a cultural milestone. Directed by Joel Crawford and FilAm animator Januel Mercado, the film is a love letter to Philippine folklore wrapped in a story about the one thing that binds the diaspora together: the bittersweet pain of leaving home.

“I was so excited. You have no idea. We were in the Philippines in 2019, and my mom was trying to scare us about all these stories. I literally grew up on them. I get to share a piece of my childhood in this work and with the world,” said Wilson (aka H.E.R.).

Soberano added, “It’s been a long-time dream of mine to be able to be in a project that really represented the Philippines in a very accurate way, but at the same time, is universal enough for people to be able to relate to.” She added, “To have Filipino culture showcased by a major studio is very exciting.”

"It Hits Different"

The excitement isn’t just about seeing familiar sights; it’s about hearing familiar voices. The film features a powerhouse cast led by Grammy-winner H.E.R. (voicing Jo) and Liza Soberano (voicing Raissa), who is making a name for herself in Hollywood and gaining the attention of producers and casting agents.

Wilson, who already has a Best Song Oscar for "Fight For You" in 2021) a Bay Area native, didn't hold back on what the feature film means for her and the Filipino American community.

"I’ve always wanted to be part of a project that showcases Filipinos and Filipino culture on a global scale," she told press at the trailer launch. "Growing up Filipino and Black... and always being loud and proud... but going other places and not necessarily seeing the representation... to see it in a film, it just hits different. It’s honestly so magical.

Liza Soberano, left, and H.E.R. provide the voices of the best friends in 'Forgotten Island.'

The film’s co-director, Januel Mercado, emphasized that while the creatures are fantastical, the heart of the story is grounded in the very real Filipino experience of separation best exemplfied by poor economic conditions forcing millions of Filipinos to seek employment in other countries. 

"We really thought about what the impact and value of those loved ones in your life is and how they contribute to the life you have and the person you become," Mercado explained.

A 'Who’s Who' of Filipino talent

It’s not just the leads. The credits read like a dream roster of Filipino excellence:

Lea Salonga as the Dreaded Manananggal (yes, the Disney Legend and beloved Broadway star) is playing the monster, and we are here for it).

Manny Jacinto (The Good Place), Dolly de Leon, (Triangle of Sadness), comedian Jo Koy (Easter Sunday), and Amielynn Abellera rounding out the supporting cast.

The feature is still in production, and the producers have been rather coy about the music. Speculation is that a yet-to-be announced song will feature either Salonga or H.E.R., or both of the stars.

        FYI: Click here to view trailer of 'Forgotten Island''

Social media has been buzzing since the trailer dropped. One fan on Threads summed up the collective mood: "Filipino culture portrayed in a way that feels real... not just the visuals or the representation, it's the story about identity, roots, & what it means to grow up between cultures. As a third culture kid, this one feels personal."

Here’s what’s echoing across the feeds:

Liza Soberano (the voice of Raissa) set the tone early, sharing her excitement on Instagram: "So beyond grateful and honored to be a part of this beautiful film... A dream come true to bring a story rooted in Filipino culture to the big screen with DreamWorks!"

The A’tin (SB19’s fandom) have turned the comment sections into a digital rally. One high-profile fan account posted: "DreamWorks, the vision is right there. We need SB19 on this soundtrack. The world needs to hear the P-pop sound on the Forgotten Island!"

Filipino-American creators are getting emotional over the visuals. As one TikTok culture commentator put it: "Seeing a literal jeepney in a high-budget DreamWorks movie feels like a fever dream in the best way possible. This isn't just a movie; it's a 'we were here' moment."

Film enthusiasts are also leaning into the technical pedigree. One popular YouTube film essayist noted: "Januel Mercado coming off 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish' to helm this? Expect the animation to be experimental, vibrant, and absolutely top-tier. Forgotten Island is the one to watch in 2026."

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

Trump bogeys as millions of Americans take to the streets in protest

While millions of Americans gathered for "No Kings" protests to voice their concerns about the Donald Trump regime’s policies, Donald Trump went golfing near Mar-a-Lago.

Organizers of the No Kings rallies and marches that took place Saturday say almost 8 million people, including Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, expressed their anger and frustration at Trump and at the same time celebrated the growing number of like-minded Americans. Organizers of the events say about 8 million people joined the No Kings movement.

The flagship rally in St. Paul, Minnesota, became a focal point for the national movement, drawing over 100,000 participants to the State Capitol. Prominent Asian American leaders and Minnesota lawmakers joined the list of speakers expressing  their concerns during the event.

• St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her: Mayor Her, who took office in early 2026 following her November 2025 election victory, emphasized the importance of community presence. She stated, "As your mayor, I will always show up... how we show up for people—in every corner of our city—matters". During debates, she has also criticized "performative" political stands that use taxpayer dollars without "moving the needle" on critical issues like gun control.

• US Representative Ilhan Omar: Speaking at the St. Paul rally, Congressmember  Omar told the crowd, "We do not cower to bullies," as she addressed the administration's "authoritarian" policies.

Here is the view from the edge in key local hubs:

San Francisco Bay Area: "Human Banners" and rapid response

The Bay Area was a focal point for the movement, with more than 60 events across the region.

Market Street: Organizers estimate 100,000 joined the march from the Bay to City Hall down the city's main street, Market Street to listen to speakers.

Ocean Beach: Demonstrators in San Francisco formed a massive "human banner" to protest the administration's policies.

San Jose: Thousands gathered downtown to speak out against intensified immigration raids. Organizers highlighted that for many Asian American families, the threat of ICE arrests at courts and check-ins has reached a tipping point, turning quiet concern into a public demand for safety.

Community Message: Leaders emphasized that the AAPI community cannot "sit on the sidelines" while federal agents invade neighborhoods.

Los Angeles & San Gabriel Valley: Protecting the neighborhood

In Southern California, the protest energy was deeply rooted in local immigrant neighborhoods.

SGV Hubs: Rallies swept through Monterey Park, Alhambra, and Pasadena, areas with high AAPI populations.

Mandarin-Language Support: Local organizers noted that the "unbearable" nature of recent federal raids has forced a shift toward communal defense, including the creation of new Mandarin-language family support networks to document enforcement activities.

Long Beach: A major gathering at Bixby Park saw residents protesting the deployment of National Guard troops and the use of militarized enforcement in their streets. 

New York City: Times Square and solidarity

In NYC, thousands of demonstrators from across the Tri-State area packed into Times Square and major intersections. [9, 10]

Economic & Social Issues: Protesters linked the "No Kings" message to broader concerns, including the rising cost of living and the ongoing war in Iran.

AAPI Advocacy: National groups like Stop AAPI Hate were visible partners, arguing that the administration’s "mass deportation agenda" is an attack on the civil rights of all Americans.

San Diego: Standing Against Detention

Further south, an estimated 40,000 people met in downtown San Diego, with additional rallies in Escondido and Carlsbad.

Focus on Detention: Many AAPI participants joined to protest the treatment of detainees at the Otay Mesa Detention Center and the sharp increase in local ICE arrests.

AANHPI voices from the "No Kings" Movement

In other parts of the country, AAPI officials took part in the demonstrations. Asian American demonstrators joined millions to protest the war in Iran and the rising cost of living. Some activists emphasized that the "No Kings" movement is a necessary step toward defending their neighbors and ensuring an America where all individuals have the opportunity to prosper.

Boston's Mayor Michelle Wu : “In this city of champions, in this city of immigrants and workers, in this hub of the universe and cradle of liberty, for the last 250 years and counting, in Boston, every day is no king’s day,” Wu told the demonstration attended by about 200,000.

New Jersey US Sen. AndyKim: The Korean American introduced his mother to the crowd at a No Kings event in Camden, N.J. “I wanted her to come here because I wanted her to see what it is that we’re trying to fight for,” he said.

US Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois stated: “There are no kings in America. Only gilded men we can topple again and again.”

Texas state Rep. Gene Wu: The state lawmaker was one of the organizers of the No Kings event in Austin, the state capitol. The event reflected a broader sense of frustration — not just with immigration raids, but also with issues like Medicaid cuts and the state's proposed THC ban. "We are happy to support Texans who have simply had enough," Wu said.

View from the Edge

While millions of people expressed their anger and frustration against Trump and hundreds of soldiers and sailors have been injured in an undeclared and unapproved ward in Iran, he spent the day at his golf course in Florida.

Since returning to office on January 20, 2025, President Trump has maintained a frequent golfing schedule:

Days Golfed: As of March 28, 2026, Trump has visited golf clubs 101 days out of his first 433 days in office.

Percentage of Term: This represents approximately 23.3% of his presidency spent at golf properties.

Total Cost to Taxpayers: Estimates indicate these outings have cost American taxpayers at least $110.6 million since his 2025 inauguration.

Cost Breakdown: Each trip to Mar-a-Lago is estimated to cost roughly $3.4 million in travel and security expenses.

And like the Epstein Files and his college grades, Trump's golf score remains undisclosed.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge.