Report from St. Louis House party hosted by Kha Ly:

1. What is your general assessment of the status of AAPI's in this country? Are you optimistic or pessimistic?

Slow change. Longer then we expect. Not hearing that much stuff about Asian equality now. Will take awhile. Changes doesn't happen over night. Sometimes people are really passive about it. People wait for others to do things. Take initiative. Stand out! Some people don't want to stand out.

2. With three Cabinet-level Secretaries that are Asian American (Chu, Shinseki, and Locke) what does this mean to you and for the Asian American community as a whole? Has this changed the image of APAs in society? How so?

Pioneers. Change is slow but its great we're part of history. Lots of first. First Black president, first, AA in this field and that. Congress possibly!

3. Please rank the top three issues you think faces the Asian community.

Other races have high expectations (stereotypes). You're not going to be a doctor? Trust us with their lives at first but when they go to hospitals they want a white doctor. Staying in touch with our roots. Struggle for us to find out identity. And others accepting us. Who we are.
Under represented. Cali. Affirmative action passing.

4. How can AAPI's gain more political clout?

Asian families need to vote more. Politicians are now needing to pay attention to APIA as long as we vote. Our generation is taking over and we're voting more.

5. What are the most prevalent leadership challenges the AAPI community and other diversity groups should be addressing in the coming year?

Apathy. Getting people passionate is extremely hard, inspire, and motivate people! Counteract: bring it to a personal level. Explain why its important not just say 'no, that's bad to say or think'. Getting other people to listen to us. Supports. Know what we want. Be prepared and informed. Not only us, a single person. Share the love!

6. How can grassroots and individuals play a role in determining policy?

Strong roots to make a movement? Because need to know what you are doing and getting it done. Individuals need to vote and stay informed. Contacting senators.

How has the call and discussion helped us in reference to leading AAA:

Knowing there are big shots out there that are like us, AAPI. Talking about issues we are dealing with. Helping us/stepping stone lesion to those of us who are in the roles of power.

 

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