Self-described as a “Chinatown Rock” band — think edgy synth pop meets new wave — The Slants are easily one of the most successful Asian American bands in the world. Besides rocking out on stage and playing with the likes of Mindless Self Indulgence and Shounen Knife, they also do awesome things such as lead workshops across the country on race and diversity to empower young audiences.
You would think a cool band like that would have no problem trademarking their name. But the U.S. denied their trademark for being “TOO ASIAN.”