The Analysis of CAA’s COVID-19 Identity Construction in the Newspapers of San Francisco Bay with the Three-Level Structure Method

Abstract

Founded in 1969 in San Francisco, Chinese for Affirmative Action (CAA) is a prominent Asian American advocacy organization, among the 34 groups opposing SFFA in the Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard case. An analysis of eight local newspapers from 2020 to 2023, using framing theory, found that coverage primarily highlighted CAA’s “Stop APPI Hate” campaign and its support for affirmative action, portraying a positive image in combating discrimination. The reporting spanned media, political, and social spheres, noting CAA’s use of media influence to advance legislation. While coverage was generally objective, it also praised CAA’s achievements and its collaborations with Black and LGBTQ+ communities to promote racial equality. The pandemic significantly reinforced CAA’s public identity as an “anti-hate advocate,” underscoring its influence while presenting future challenges in balancing this focused image with its broader equity work. This study reveals the dynamic interplay between media, crisis, and civil rights organizations in shaping public narratives.