Amid growing controversy over the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies, a group of prominent Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders gathered to demand stronger intergenerational unity and local political action.
AAPI Leaders Mobilize at USC Forum
On April 17, a forum titled “Power of AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander)” was held at the University of Southern California (USC). Key speakers included John Chiang, former California State Treasurer; Betty Yee, former State Controller; Farrah Khan, former Mayor of Irvine; and Anthony Rendon, former Speaker of the California State Assembly.
Participants emphasized that the AAPI community must enhance its political presence and strengthen grassroots organizations to maintain lasting influence. The discussion directly addressed recent federal moves to reduce or eliminate DEI program funding, as well as the ongoing dispute between Harvard University and the federal government.
Voices Call for Sustained Action Beyond Protest
John Chiang stated, “We are in this together. Change must come through partnerships and strong communities.” He added, “Protests matter, but we must also raise our voices by working with the media, government, and political leaders.”
Farrah Khan urged deeper identity awareness within the AAPI community, saying, “Asia is large and diverse, so understanding who we are as AAPI is key. We need to listen, understand each other, and move forward from our past.”
Betty Yee noted that modern media often highlights conflict over solutions, adding, “Schools and campuses must be places where a wide range of perspectives can be shared freely.” She stressed the role of the younger generation in building community power and driving change locally.
Event Co-Hosted by USC and Advocacy Groups
The event was jointly hosted by the USC Political Student Assembly, the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, and AAPI Data, reflecting a broad effort to elevate AAPI civic engagement.
The speaker lineup, however, featured mostly Democratic-affiliated leaders—raising quiet questions about whether the full spectrum of political views within the AAPI community was represented.
BY YOONJAE JUNG [jung.yoonjae@koreadaily.com]
