Korean American Women Artists & Writers Association
Korean American Women Artists & Writers Association
HISTORY
Our Beginnings
Korean American Women Artist and Writers Association (KAWAWA), a community based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was founded in 1987 by Korean women artists, composers, musicians, performers, writers, and filmmakers.
In 1989, encouraged by community leaders and activists, KAWAWA
organized Works by Korean American Women Artists, the first national symposium of Korean American women artists at Mills College. This symposium addressed the needs and issues of women artists of the Korean heritage, as well as raising awareness among community members and the general public about Korean culture.
In 1994, KAWAWA's Intercultural Program was instituted with the help of African American community leaders and in collaboration with the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center. This program was selected to receive funding by The Mayor's Office of Children, Youth and Their Families.
Due to the enormous success of KAWAWA's Intercultural Program, KAWAWA was publicly honored by Frank M. Jordon, the major of San Francisco in 1996. KAWAWA received praise for their dedication and foresight in the promotion and recognition of racial harmony in the city.
Furthermore, in September of 1996, KAWAWA Korean Youth Development Center which provides comprehensive programs for Korean youth and their families, was specially chosen by the Mayor's Office of Children, Youth and Their Families to receive funding.