CAPE's 35th anniversary gala is a significant event, marking a decade since the organization last held such a celebration. The event, presented by Lexus, will take place in Downtown Los Angeles on October 3rd, and it's a star-studded affair. The highlight of the evening is the honoring of Randall Park and Manny Jacinto, two talented actors who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Asif Ali, the breakout star of Deli Boys, will host the gala, and indie band Chanpan will perform. But what makes this event truly special is the opportunity to reflect on CAPE's history and the impact it has had on Asian and Pacific Islander talent in Hollywood.
CAPE, or the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment, has been a driving force in creating opportunities and driving change for Asian and Pacific Islander talent since its inception in 1991. The organization's work is particularly important in an industry that has historically underrepresented these communities. Randall Park, a veteran performer with credits including Fresh Off the Boat, Aquaman, Ant-Man and the Wasp, Veep, and WandaVision, is a perfect example of the type of talent CAPE has supported. He was previously honored by CAPE with a new writers award in 2011, and he is an alumnus of CAPE's programs, along with other Hollywood talent like filmmakers Alice Wu, Beth de Araújo, and Liz Sargent.
The 35th anniversary gala is an opportunity to celebrate not only the achievements of individuals like Park and Jacinto, but also the progress CAPE has made in supporting Asian and Pacific Islander talent. As CAPE CEO and executive director Michelle K. Sugihara noted, 'For this 35th anniversary, it’s our time to share our CAPE history, and many of those we are featuring and honoring — Randall Park, Manny Jacinto, Asif Ali and Grace Dumdaw, the lead singer of Chanpan — all have their part in our history outside their own incredible feats in their careers.'
The gala is also a chance to look to the future and consider the potential for continued growth and change in the industry. With support from Lexus, Sony Pictures Entertainment, and Suntory Global Spirits, CAPE is well-positioned to continue its work in supporting Asian and Pacific Islander talent. The event is a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential for positive change in the entertainment industry.
In my opinion, the 35th anniversary gala is a significant milestone for CAPE and a celebration of the progress that has been made in supporting Asian and Pacific Islander talent. It's a reminder of the importance of diversity and representation in the entertainment industry, and it's a call to action for continued progress. As we look to the future, it's clear that CAPE will continue to play a vital role in shaping the industry and creating opportunities for talented individuals from all backgrounds.
