APAPA National - Asian Pacific American Public Affairs

For 25 years, APAPA has empowered leaders, strengthened communities, and advanced civic engagement across the nation.

Today, we are excited to officially announce APAPA's 25th Anniversary Gala, taking place on October 17, 2026.

Join us as we celebrate a quarter century of leadership, advocacy, service, and impact while honoring the individuals, chapters, partners, and supporters who have helped shape APAPA's journey.

Save the date and stay tuned for additional details, ticket information, sponsorship opportunities, and special announcements in the coming months.

25 Years of Impact. Honoring the Past. Inspiring the Future.

Today, as we begin Pride Month, we look back at the first Pride march held on June 28, 1970, on the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall uprising in New York City.

Known as Christopher Street Liberation Day, the march brought together LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to advocate for visibility, equality, and civil rights. Similar marches were also held in Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco, laying the foundation for what would become Pride celebrations around the world.

More than five decades later, Pride continues to remind us of the power of advocacy, representation, and community. This month, we honor the LGBTQ+ individuals whose courage and leadership have helped advance equality and create a more inclusive future for all.

Happy Pride Month. 🏳️‍🌈

As we wrap up AANHPI Heritage Month, we want to recognize the incredible leaders who help bring APAPA's mission to life across the country. 🌟

We asked our chapter leaders, "What connects you most to your heritage, culture, or community?" Their responses reflect the values, traditions, stories, and relationships that continue to inspire their leadership and service.

Swipe through to hear from some of our amazing chapter leaders from across the United States. Thank you for your dedication, hard work, and commitment to strengthening your communities every day.

Our chapters are our strength. Together, we honor our heritage, celebrate our diverse cultures, and continue building a brighter future for generations to come. 💙

As AANHPI Heritage Month comes to a close, we are proud to reflect on the many ways APAPA chapters and leaders celebrated culture, strengthened community, and advanced advocacy across the country. 💙

This month included:

• 2026 Key Leadership Development Program Kick Off – APAPA Indiana Chapter
• Albany Chapter Tennis Tournament Fundraiser – APAPA Albany Chapter
• APAICS Gala – APAPA HQ & Stephen DeGuzman, Washington, DC
• Arts in California Parks Community Tree Planting, AANHPI Day Celebration – APAPA HQ
• Columbus Asian Fest – APAPA Indiana Chaptee
• Eastern Iowa Coralville Art Festival Booth – APAPA Eastern Iowa Chapter
• New York State AAPI Summit – APAPA New York Chapters
• OCA 31st Annual Dragon Boat Festival Celebration – APAPA HQ
• Tri Valley Asian Heritage Celebration – APAPA Tri Valley Chapter

Thank you to our chapters, volunteers, partners, and supporters for helping us continue our mission to inspire, engage, and empower communities nationwide.

🌟 AANHPI Heritage Month Spotlight: Joanna Ho 🌟

We’re proud to honor Joanna Ho, a Taiwanese American author, educator, and advocate whose work uplifts children nationwide. Through her bestselling book *Eyes That Kiss in the Corners*, Joanna inspires young readers to embrace their identities, celebrate diversity, and challenge harmful beauty standards.

Her stories spark vital conversations about representation, self-worth, and the importance of seeing ourselves reflected in the world. Joanna’s impact reminds us that every child deserves to feel proud of who they are and where they come from.

📚 How has representation in books or media shaped your life? Share your story in the comments!

Meet Thelma Garcia Buchholdt—our latest AANHPI figure spotlight for Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month! 🇵🇭✨

As the first Filipino-American woman legislator in the U.S., Thelma broke barriers in public service, championing education, environmental protections, women’s rights, and Filipino-American representation. Her leadership opened doors for future generations of Asian American women in politics and beyond.

Swipe to discover her inspiring story, impact, and lasting legacy. 💫

Meet Yuri Kochiyama—our first AANHPI figure spotlight for Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month! ✨

Yuri Kochiyama was a lifelong champion for civil rights, social justice, and cross-racial solidarity. Her powerful legacy continues to inspire new generations to get involved and uplift marginalized communities. Yuri’s story reminds us of the impact of grassroots activism and the importance of standing together for equality.

Learn more about her remarkable journey, her impact, and how she helped advance AANHPI visibility.

🌱 APAPA was proud to officially launch our 2026 Arts in California Parks series, “Roots & Resilience,” with Community Gardening Day at Yin Ranch! 🪏🪴

Students, families, and community members came together for a meaningful day centered around wellness, culture, sustainability, and connection through nature — including planting citrus trees together. 💚

Thank you to everyone who helped make this event so special! ✨ Be sure to register for our next event, our AANHPI Heritage Celebration, at the link in our bio.