Historic. That's the word that echoes through the corridors of the Asian Pacific American Leadership Foundation (APALF) as AAPI LEAD, a groundbreaking organization for AAPI officials, swings open its doors. As reported by the Senate Press, over 350 leaders from beyond 25 states, and the District of Columbia, came together in Las Vegas, Nevada from June 19-21, 2024 to mark the inception of what stands as the AANHPI community's monumental leap towards amplified representation.
This is not just another group; it is the first national membership-based sector solely for and by AAPI elected and appointed officials in the country. David Chiu, San Francisco City Attorney and AAPI LEAD President, shared in a statement obtained by Senate Press, “As the first president tapped to serve with the newly formed AAPI LEAD Board of Directors, I want our new organization to unleash the incredible leadership potential that AAPI elected and appointed leaders represent, because we are truly stronger together."
The summit wasn't just groundbreaking in spirit but also in numbers – bringing forth the largest assembly of AANHPI elected leaders and officials the U.S. has ever seen at state, national, and local tiers. This coalition is set to harness collective potential, fostering growth and ensuring AAPI narratives are woven into the fabric of political discussion at every junction, table, and roundabout where decisions are made.
Embracing the meaning of collaborative efforts, Sen. Sheikh Rahman (D–Lawrenceville) told the Senate Press, “I’m honored to be part of the inaugural board for AAPI LEAD and look forward to the meaningful collaboration and work that will be accomplished with my colleagues.” The inaugural board itself is a tapestry of diversity, with members hailing from 15 states and territories and representing the layered governance landscape of America. The next meetup for these trailblazers is scheduled for July 23-25, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, where they will convene once again alongside NALEO. For those seeking to learn more or engage, information is available at the AAPI LEAD's website.
