By Louis Chan, AsAmNews National Correspondent
Ellen DeGeneres this week surprised an Asian American anchorwoman who a viewer derisively called “very Asian” for sharing a Korean tradition during a newscast.
Michelle Li of KSDK in St. Louis appeared on the Ellen Wednesday and divulged she has actually talked to the viewer who called her offensive for reporting that Koreans ate dumplings for New Year’s.
Li said she explained to the woman why her comments were bigoted and the woman apologized. The two agreed to meet face to face after COVID.
“I feel responsible for her,” said Li who has not made the woman’s name public. “I don’t want her to lose her livelihood. I think she has learned a lesson and we have an opportunity to have a good discussion.”
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Li says along with a friend and KARE news anchor Gia Vang, the two have developed #VeryAsian swag and sold it as a fundraiser for the Asian American Journalists Association.
Ellen then announced that in cooperation with TisBest Philanthropy, the non-profit which encourages gifts of good would be donating $15,000 to support her fundraising efforts.
“Oh, my God. Are you serious,” Li exclaimed.
She later announced on Facebook that she would be launching the Very Asian Foundation.
“It came together with quick action and smart, thoughtful minds in #STL and across the country. I am humbled, she said. “We will evolve. We are allowing ourselves to dream bigger – it wouldn’t be happening without YOU, your pride, and your love of food, friends, and family. #Veryasian will always be about US.”
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