Asian American civil rights refer to the efforts and movements aimed at securing equal rights and protections for individuals of Asian descent in the United States. This includes addressing issues such as discrimination, immigration policies, and social justice. Key events, like the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and the Japanese American internment during World War II, highlight the historical struggles faced by Asian Americans. Organizations such as the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF) and the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA) have played significant roles in advocating for the rights of Asian Americans. These groups work to combat racism, promote civic engagement, and ensure that Asian American voices are heard in the broader civil rights movement.