The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) Statement on the Reported Cancellations of The Katie Phang Show and Alex Wagner Tonight
FEBRUARY 25, 2025 (San Francisco, CA) - We are deeply concerned by the reported cancellations of The Katie Phang Show and Alex Wagner Tonight, two platforms that brought insightful analysis, diverse perspectives, and much-needed representation to our media landscape. Katie Phang and Alex Wagner have been powerful voices, not only as journalists, but also as trailblazers for the Asian American community.
A 2024 study found that Asian American representation in the TV news workforce was the lowest it had ever been in over a decade. Representation matters. When Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) reporters and experts are at the table, they bring visibility to issues that are too often overlooked, challenge stereotypes, and inspire the next generation. Katie, a champion of the AAPI community, was committed to providing The Katie Phang Show as a platform to uplift our voices, leaders, and stories. The loss of her show is a stark reminder of the challenges AAPIs continue to face in the media industry.
We stand with Katie and Alex and remain committed to advocating to ensure that our stories, perspectives, and expertise remain an integral part of the national dialogue. For years, MSNBC and NBC Universal have played a critical role in elevating AAPI talent. As newsrooms work to build credibility with their audiences, we urge networks, producers, and decision-makers to recognize the importance of sustained AAPI representation—not as a trend, but as a necessity.
About The Asian American Foundation (TAAF)
TAAF serves the Asian American and Pacific Islander community in their pursuit of belonging and prosperity that is free from discrimination, slander, and violence. Launched in 2021 in response to the rise in anti-Asian hate and address the long standing underinvestment in AAPI communities, TAAF invests in best in class organizations working to mobilize against hate and violence, educate communities, and reclaim our narratives through our core pillars of Anti-Hate, Education, Narrative Change, and Resources & Representation. Through our grants, high-impact initiatives and events, we're creating a permanent and irrevocable sense of belonging for millions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. For additional information about TAAF, please visit www.taaf.org.