Asian American groups rally at national Unity March Asian Americans and allies gathered at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on June 25 for the Unity March. The event’s goal was to advance socioeconomic and cultural equity, racial justice, and solidarity. Speakers and performers took to the stage to dispel the “model minority” myth that all Asian Americans are successful, which has pitted them against other racial groups. They also shared family history and urged attendees to vote. The event encouraged participation in democracy, such as access to voting, citizenship, and civic power for immigrants and communities of color; racial and economic justice, such as investing in workers, small businesses, entrepreneurs of color, and women; and cultural equity and representation, such as ensuring diverse stories are told by cultural and educational institutions and leaders. The crowd waved handmade signs with messages such as “Not your model minority,”“Stop AAPI hate” and “Protect Asian women.” The Unity March was founded by national organizations, including Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ), the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance and APIAVote. Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network participated as a partner organization and attended the event. Learn more at: unitymarch.com.
Asian Chamber of Commerce brings small business owners to the table
The National Asian & Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce & Entrepreneurship (ACE) and Asian Chamber of Commerce (ACC) hosted the AAPISTRONG Small Business Roundtable in Denver on June 8 at the ACC office. The event highlighted a conversation with business owners, elected officials, and corporate leaders on the state of job opportunities, AAPI small business, and
pandemic recovery. President and CEO of National ACE Chilin Tong joined remotely to offer opening remarks about the important role Asian business owners play in the US. ACC President Fran Campbell introduced the dignitaries in attendance, including Bill Huang, Director General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Denver and Mikami Yoichi, Consul-Gener-
Small business owners shared about the challenges caused by the pandemic.
Travis Tom, ACC Chair, shares upcoming plans for the chamber.
Vietnamese American singer KHA performs at the Unity March.
al of Japan in Denver. ACC Board Chair Travis Tom shared about the chamber’s plans to establish a business directory to connect small businesses to potential government and corporate contract opportunities. Englewood Judge Joe Jefferson served as the event’s keynote speaker, noting that more Asian-owned businesses have opened in Colorado in recent years. “The Asian community’s culture has so much to offer the larger American melting pot,” said Jefferson. “Diversity is one of the great strengths of America, but in order for it to continue to be a benefit, we must work together towards shared goals, keeping an open mind to others, and bringing our best ideas.” Learn more at: acccolorado.org.
Englewood Judge Joe Jefferson presents as the keynote speaker.
On Scene | Asian Avenue Magazine
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