This month, we are sharing the stories by Seattle Foundation team members and partners at Civic Commons who identify from the AAPI diaspora.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI): The month of May was chosen because it commemorates the first known and documented Asian to immigrate to the U.S. on May 7, 1843 and the completion of the Transcontinental Railway on May 10, 1869. To learn more, watch a new four-part PBS documentary, Asian Americans.
“Homegrown”, by Bao-Tram Do, Seattle Foundation Program Officer, reflects on her family fleeing from Vietnam when she was a toddler and the immense pride in the South Seattle community that embraced her family as AAPI refugees. Full story
Courtney Elop, Seattle Foundation Philanthropic Associate Advisor, sheds light on the question she is most frequently asked in “Where are you from?” by addressing superficial presumptions about identity as an adopted daughter of a Caucasian Canadian family. Full story
In “Representation Matters”, Frank Nam, Civic Commons Project Director, recounts his early memories of moving to the U.S. from Seoul, Korea and the distinct moment he connected how representation is an important aspect of identity and belonging. Full story
“Being Happa”, by Hana Rubin, Seattle Foundation Senior Operations Manager, shares how being a half Japanese and half Jewish women have opened doors of cultural and racial acceptance. Full story
Nancy Saelee, Seattle Foundation Executive Assistant to CEO reflects on her childhood in “Keeping the Mien Culture Alive” and the yearning she now has to ensure her daughter understands and values her Mien roots. Full story