ABOUT AAUC

The Asian American Unity Coalition is a nationally operating nonprofit organization with a mission to unite our diverse Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities around common goals and lift our collective voice through advocacy, collaboration, and education. AAUC envisions a world where AANHPI achieve economic and social sucess and equal political representation, regardless of race, ethnicity or nationality.

JOIN US FOR THE 2025 UNITY SUMMIT!
AAUC’s annual Unity Summit is an in-person event that will lift our voice in Washington D.C. advocating for equity and support of our diverse views and community concerns.

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION, $25 OFF

• $175 for AAUC members
• $140 for non-members
• $75 for students
• $25 for 1-day pass to all sessions on September 16, does not include the Welcome Dinner
• Registration does not cover the Optional Pre-Summit Activities on September 15.
• Summit Co-hosts receive five (5) complimentary registrations. Co-hosts should email Ted Fong at ted@aauc.us to receive their promotion codes before registering.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Optional Pre-Summit Activities
Monday, September 15, 2025

• Afternoon: Tour of the U.S. Capitol
• Afternoon: Tour of the White House
• Evening: Social Event

Day 1 of Summit
Tuesday, September 16, 2025, 8:30 am – 8:00 pm EST, Holiday Inn

• Registration
• Breakfast
• Networking
• Keynotes, Workshops, and Panel Discussions
• Advocacy Orientation and Training
• Welcome Dinner

Day 2 of Summit
Wednesday, September 17, 2025, 8:30 am – 8:00 pm EST, Rayburn House Office Building at the U.S. Capitol

• Breakfast
• Keynotes and Panel Discussions on Capitol Hill
• Congressional Office Visits
• Debriefing
• Awards and Congressional Reception

ACCOMMODATIONS

• Holiday Inn National Airport, 2650 Richmond Hwy, Arlington, VA (see map)
• AAUC group rate: $177.00 per night plus tax, breakfast included
• $20 for parking
• Free shuttle to and from Ronald Reagan Washington Airport
• Click here to reserve your room by August 15 or call 888-294-5059 and mention “Asian American Unity” or code AUC. Supply is limited!

SPONSOR THE SUMMIT

AAUC’s Unity Summit invites organizations, companies and individuals to contribute to and support our event and broader work to unite the AANHPI community. To become a sponors, visit asamunitycoalition.org/sponsor. To become a Summit co-host, visit asamunitycoalition.org/cohost. Or contact Ted Fong at ted@aauc.us for more information.

SESSION DESCRIPTIONS

1. AANHPI Contributions to U.S. Progress and Democratic Values

Over the past 25 years, Asian Americans have played a pivotal role in shaping the success of the United States—driving innovation, strengthening communities, and advancing the ideals of democracy. This session highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Asian Americans in fields such as technology, education, public service, arts, healthcare, and civic engagement. Participants will explore powerful stories of leadership, resilience, and advocacy that have helped promote inclusion, equity, and democratic participation. Through historical context and contemporary examples, this session will celebrate the legacy and ongoing influence of Asian Americans in building a stronger, more just America.

2. Many Faiths, One Nation: Religious Freedom and Tolerance in Today’s America

In a nation founded on the principle of religious freedom, how well are we living up to that ideal today? This panel brings together faith leaders, scholars, and advocates to discuss the current state of religious freedom and tolerance in the United States. From rising religious discrimination to debates over policy and public expression, panelists will explore the challenges faced by diverse religious communities—including Muslims, Jews, Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and others. The discussion will also highlight efforts to build interfaith understanding, protect civil liberties, and promote inclusive practices across institutions. Join us for a thoughtful and timely conversation about how we can strengthen the promise of religious freedom for all.

3. Culture, Identity & Challenges of Being Asian in America

This powerful session explores culture, identity, and the real-life experiences of Asian American youth through the professionally directed 20-minute documentary titled “Our Voices.”The film features authentic stories and cultural visuals from Chinese, Miao (Hmong), and Indian communities—highlighting vibrant traditions such as festivals, food, music, and dance. These moments are interwoven with raw, personal narratives from students about their experiences in American schools, identity struggles, stereotyping, and mental health challenges.

Following the screening, four students will lead a 25-minute interactive discussion based on their personal reflections and the film’s themes. They will engage the audience with questions like:

• What does it mean to be Asian in America today?
• How do cultural pride and social pressure coexist?
• Should we speak up or stay silent when faced with stereotypes or exclusion?
• How can we support each other’s mental well-being in our communities?

This session aims to foster honest reflection, cultural connection, and collective empowerment.

4. AAUC Hub and News Portal

Join AAUC for a special announcement on September 16th to unveil AAPI News & Voices and a workshop on the redesigned AAPI Hub as the two new tools led by AAUC to engage and network among our diverse communities. AAPI News & Voices is a new digital portal dedicated to amplifying news, events, and stories relevant to the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. It will serve as a trusted source for culturally informed journalism, community updates, policy developments, and grassroots voices from across the country. The AAPI Hub is an online interactive platform that allows users to access vast amounts of data about voters, elected officials, and AAPI nonprofit organizations into actionable information that can be used in advocacy programs and political campaigns. A brief workshop on the AAPI hub will help the audience navigate the platform to obtain the information and more. Both of these services from AAUC are a must-see! Be among the first to explore their features and learn how they will empower, inform, and connect AAPI communities nationwide.

5: Cultivating Strength: Mental Health and Asian American Youth

As awareness of mental health grows across our communities, so too does the urgency of rising rates of mental illness among Asian American youth. This dual reality presents a unique challenge for parents and caregivers striving to foster strength, resilience, and overall well-being in their children—often without a clear roadmap or culturally attuned resources. This presentation will unpack the specific stressors impacting our youth, highlight the intergenerational dynamics at play, and offer concrete, culturally responsive tools that families and communities can use to nurture mental health from the inside out. This session will be followed by a meditation exercise conducted by the Art of Living leader to learn how to lower stress with the pr

6. Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence

This session will brainstorm ways the AANHPI community can celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. Some ideas include reflecting on the promise of liberty and justice while acknowledging that those ideals were not always extended to all; hosting events discussions, or exhibits that explore how Asian Americans have fought for inclusion, civil rights, and democratic values; organizing voter registration drives, town halls, or advocacy campaigns centered around strengthening democracy and representation; and encouraging participation in local government, school boards, and community boards as a reflection of the founding spirit of self-governance. Bring your ideas!

7. Understanding How Executive Orders Affect AANHPI Communities

This session will look at how President Donald Trump’s executive orders have impacted Asian American communities. Participants will explore recent changes to visa programs, the ban on DEI initiatives, and heightened immigration enforcement. We’ll analyze their legal, social, and cultural consequences. We will unpack the broader implications of these policies on civil rights and the sense of belonging among Asian Americans. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how federal power shapes community experiences and how to engage in advocacy and civic action moving forward.

8. From Community to Capitol: Mobilizing Asian Americans for Civic Leadership and Political Power

Despite growing in numbers and impact, Asian American communities are underrepresented in government, policymaking, and advocacy spaces. This session empowers you to step into civic and political leadership. We’ll explore the barriers that have limited AANHPI participation and what you can do about it, from community organizing to running for office. This session will provide the tools, inspiration, and connections needed to turn engagement into lasting impact.

9. Preparing for the 2026 Mid-term Elections

This session prepares you for the 2026 mid-term elections by tackling key challenges like political disinformation and voter suppression. Participants will learn effective strategies to engage, educate, and mobilize their communities, including organizing voter outreach events and building local coalitions. The session will also cover how to identify and support candidates who align with community priorities, ensuring grassroots voices are heard and represented at every level of government.

10. Advocacy Training

Ready to turn your voice into action? This hands-on training will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to visit the offices of our elected officials on Wednesday, September 17th. You’ll learn how to connect with your representative and their staff and to deliver a compelling message. Whether you’re new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your approach, this session will provide practical tools and insider tips to help you make your voice heard and drive real change in your community and beyond.

VISIT THE AAUC WEBSITE: www.asamunitycoalition.org/summit

SUMMIT CO-HOSTS