Alex Oishi
What does it mean to be Asian American?
For me, being Asian American is a deep source of pride and joy. To be a part of a community that has led and supported immense change and progress in spite of much opposition is quite powerful. I am not only proud to be able to walk through the world as an Asian American, but have deep appreciation for those who have come before me and those in community.
What motivates you to do what you do everyday?
I am motivated by the hope for a more equitable world, one where ALL people can find joy, peace, and prosperity regardless of identity or background.
What do you worry about? I worry about the state of the world and those who are unjustly persecuted.
What can’t you live without? I cannot live without my community. My family and friends, those who I can find a home in.
Ethnic background: Japanese & White
Age: 24
Current city & state: Chicago, Illinois
What brings you joy? I find joy in those close to me, music, nature, the queer community, among many other things.
What is your wish for the United States? I wish for a country where all people have equitable opportunity to thrive and find joy in life and feel like they belong in a community.
What role do you play, or want to play in making that wish come true? I want to be someone who causes “good trouble” in our world, advocating for those who don’t have a voice for themselves.
“I want to be someone who causes “good trouble” in our world, advocating for those who don’t have a voice for themselves.”
— Alex Oishi, 2025
Alex with his late grandfather’s Aloha shirt, 2025
My object is an Aloha shirt that belonged to my late grandpa. I am Gosei (5th generation) Japanese-American, and for 4 generations, my family lived on the island of Maui, in Hawai’i.
This shirt was a representation of the blending of many cultures, both Hawai’ian and Japanese, that I had the privilege to grow up with and be immersed in through my family.
“I am Gosei (5th generation) Japanese-American,...”
— Alex Oishi