Season 7 Episode 10

Simon Tam from The Slants Foundation

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“Slanted” -- Taking the Fight for AAPI Civil Rights to the Supreme Court with Author, Activist & Musician Simon Tam

Author, Activist and Musician Simon Tam opens up about his experience pursuing the landmark 2017 case that helped expand civil liberties for minorities and artistic expression at the Supreme Court of the United States - which started from a simple band name. Author of “Slanted: How an Asian American Troublemaker Took on the Supreme Court,” founder and bassist of The Slants, and leader of The Slants Foundation, Simon has dedicated himself to both creating impactful art and mentoring and supporting others who incorporate activism into their art. Simon and Aaron discuss the lengthy process of taking a case to the Supreme Court, Simon’s work since March 2020 in light of a rise in anti-Asian hate, and the importance of questioning why things make us uncomfortable. Tune in to hear about Simon’s additional work as a restaurateur, and learn more at simontam.org.

Production Credits: Aaron Kwittken, Jeff Maldonado, Dara Cothran, Lindsay Hand, Julie Strickland, Nina Valdes, Maria Bayas, Michael Grubbs, and Mathew Passy