Janet Yang, a distinguished figure in the film industry and former president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, has been named the new chairwoman for the Committee of 100. This prominent non-profit organization is dedicated to strengthening the relationship between the United States and China, while also advocating for the equitable treatment and recognition of Chinese Americans within American society. Yang's leadership marks a new chapter for the Committee, building on its rich history of fostering dialogue and cultural exchange.
Founded in 1990 by esteemed individuals such as architect I.M. Pei and musician Yo-Yo Ma, the Committee of 100 has consistently championed initiatives that bridge cultural divides and challenge stereotypes. The organization's core mission revolves around ensuring that Chinese Americans are perceived and embraced as integral contributors to the fabric of American life, rather than being marginalized as outsiders. Yang, who has been an active member since 1998, succeeds Gary Locke, a former Governor of Washington State and U.S. Ambassador to China, who guided the committee for the past five years.
Yang, a Queens native born to Chinese immigrant parents, holds a degree in Chinese from Brown University and an MBA from Columbia University. Her career in entertainment began by connecting the Chinese and Hollywood film sectors, playing a pivotal role in the production of significant films like Steven Spielberg's Empire of the Sun. Her subsequent work as a producer includes notable titles such as The Joy Luck Club, The People vs. Larry Flynt, and Over the Moon. She also earned an Emmy for the television film Indictment: The McMartin Trial, showcasing her diverse talent and impact on the industry.
Having joined the Film Academy's producers branch in 2002, Yang was elected to its board in 2019 and assumed the presidency in 2022, a role she held until 2025. As the first Asian American to serve as the Academy's president, she spearheaded efforts to diversify its membership globally, resulting in approximately a quarter of its 10,000 members now residing outside the United States. Her tenure was marked by a commitment to inclusivity and expanding the Academy's international reach.
Paul Cheung, president of the Committee of 100, emphasized the historical contributions of Chinese Americans across various fields, from entrepreneurship and business to science and arts. He expressed confidence that Yang's leadership will empower the organization to articulate its narrative more effectively, inspiring future generations of Chinese American leaders to contribute fully to American society.
Yang shared her perspective with THR, noting that despite media focus on anti-Chinese or anti-American sentiments, her personal experience reveals a profound mutual curiosity, admiration, and a strong desire for collaboration between the two cultures. She highlighted the critical importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges like artificial intelligence and climate change, aligning herself with those who seek connections through shared values and a collective vision for a brighter future. She views her new role at the Committee of 100 as an unparalleled opportunity to forge meaningful connections between East and West, driven by personal engagement and shared aspirations.
