“Onerous” is the word the American Poultry Association (APA) uses to describe the process of adding a new breed to the Standard of Perfection. The word describes the task which requires lot of effort, often feeling overwhelming. This process is not meant to be taken lightly—it requires dedication, collaboration, and persistence. It is worth the effort because along the way, breeders form meaningful connections with judges, show managers, district leaders, and the APA’s Standard Committee. Planning, communication, participation, commitment, and travel all become integral parts of the journey.
The Ayam Cemani Breeders Association (ACBA) was founded in early 2015 by a group of passionate breeders who shared a vision and a desire to promote and improve this unique breed. One of the first major milestones was drafting and refining a proposed Standard of Perfection—a foundational requirement for beginning the path to official recognition.
The next essential step was encouraging breeders to become official members of the American Poultry Association. By 2018 and 2019, many committed individuals had joined and pledged to maintain their memberships and active involvement. This initiated the longest phase of the process: a minimum five-year period during which at least 50% of the Ayam Cemani stock produced by APA members must be reasonably consistent in body type, color, size, and comb. These results must be supported by at least five signed Breeder Affidavits to verify compliance.
Throughout this period, Ayam Cemani breeders began showing their birds at APA-sanctioned events. It was vital to get our proposed standard into the hands of as many APA judges as possible. District meets featuring the Ayam Cemani were held in states including Oklahoma, Florida, Tennessee, Ohio, Texas, and Massachusetts.
Once ACBA members felt confident in the breed’s development and consistency, we submitted a formal petition for recognition to the APA Secretary. This package included our proposed Standard of Perfection, show certificates, a deposit, and detailed documentation on the breed’s history and development. These materials are now archived by the Association.
For two consecutive years, Ayam Cemani entries had to be exhibited at qualifying shows, with certificates signed by licensed APA judges. Each show required a minimum number of entries in each class: cocks, hens, cockerels, and pullets. These certificates and records were then submitted to the Committee on Standards for review.
This committee became instrumental in our journey, offering mentorship and guidance based on their review of show outcomes and direct discussions with both breeders and judges. Their goal is to help ensure consistency, quality, and adherence to the standard.
Our first official qualifying meet was held in Norman, Oklahoma, in November 2024. The turnout exceeded expectations, with well over the required 50 quality entries shown and we had more than the required 5 APA members competing. The assigned judge evaluated and placed the birds and, upon approval, submitted a letter of recommendation to the Standard Committee.
Our second qualifying meet must occur at least one year after the first and must take place at the APA Annual Convention. This important event is scheduled for November 2025 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. ACBA members are enthusiastic and preparing diligently. We continue to refine our breeding goals and encourage one another as we approach this critical milestone.
If the APA-appointed judge provides a positive recommendation and the Standard Committee is satisfied with our breed’s quality and consistency, they may recommend its acceptance. Final approval to include the Ayam Cemani in the APA’s Standard of Perfection will be decided by the Board of Directors.
We hope you’ll cheer us on as we prepare for the 2025 Annual Convention. Whether this is our year for official recognition or not, we remain committed to the process. If additional work is required, we’re prepared to continue. In that case, we’ll wait the mandatory six months, submit a new fee, and begin the next chapter of our journey.
