ADVERTISEMENTs
AAPI leaders gather in Washington for 3rd annual Unity Summit
The panels examined religious freedom, identity challenges faced by Asian Americans, and mental health issues among youth.
-
Pranavi Sharma - Fri, 19, Sep 2025
- 23:57 EDT
- 14
AAPI leaders gather in Washington for 3rd annual Unity Summit / SS Manku
More than 150 leaders, policymakers, and advocates met in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 16–17 for the third annual AAPI Unity Summit, hosted by the Asian American Unity Coalition (AAUC). The two-day event focused on collaboration across Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, policy advocacy, and strategies to increase civic participation.
The program opened Sept. 16 at the Holiday Inn with sessions on AANHPI contributions to U.S. progress, the impact of executive orders, and a discussion with civil rights activist and author Helen Zia. Later panels examined religious freedom, identity challenges faced by Asian Americans, and mental health issues among youth. A workshop introduced two new tools such as the AAPI Hub and AAPI News & Voices to support grassroots advocacy and provide data on voters, nonprofits, and elected officials.
Evening events included a keynote address by entrepreneur and philanthropist Sandy Chau, followed by a cultural celebration. “This summit is about cultivating strength within our communities and making sure our voices are heard,” Chau said.
The second day shifted to Capitol Hill at the Rayburn House Office Building. Sessions focused on mobilizing Asian Americans for civic leadership, preparing for the 2026 midterm elections, and advocacy training ahead of congressional visits. Texas State Representative Gene Wu delivered a keynote urging stronger political engagement. “We have to be visible, we have to be active, and we have to lead,” Wu said.
ALSO READ: Asian-American body to organize annual summit on AANHPI unity
The summit also included cultural performances. / SS MankuAttendees later visited Capitol Hill to meet with lawmakers on issues including immigration, social justice, healthcare, economic equality, and civil rights. The summit closed with a session marking preparations for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, an awards ceremony, and a congressional reception.
Other featured speakers included former presidential candidate Andrew Yang, activist KaYing Yang, Thu Nguyen of OCA National, Cindy Tsai of the Committee of 100, Anil Sharma of 22nd Century Technologies, and Haipei Shue of United Chinese Americans. Faith leaders such as Rev. Kenjitsu Nakagaki and Wajdi Said also participated in discussions on religious tolerance and interfaith cooperation.
Pre-summit activities included a U.S. Capitol tour and networking events on September 15. The AAUC, led by President Angela Anand and Board Chair SK Lo, organized the gathering with support from community organizations and sponsors across the country.
“The Unity Summit highlights our collective responsibility to advocate for justice and equality,” said Dr. SK Lo, AAUC Board Chair. “It is not only about dialogue but also about taking action together.”
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
ADVERTISEMENT
.jpg)
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login