A surge in anti-Asian attacks reported since the start of the pandemic has left Asian Americans across the country scared and concerned. The issue has also caught the attention of President Biden, who signed a memorandum pledging to combat anti-Asian and Pacific Islander discrimination, shortly after taking office.As the first Asian American woman to be Miss Dallas, I am partnering with the city of Dallas, Texas senatorial representatives, and the Asian American Chamber of Commerce to plan, market, and host a charity event benefiting The Tulong Foundation and Asian Americans Advancing Justice. With the help of my Filipino immigrant mother, I founded the Tulong Foundation at the age of 16 to address Asian education in the United States and beyond. Today, my nonprofit provides micro-entrepernurial loans to Asian women to start their own small business, scholarships to young girls in South East Asia, and various educational workshops throughout the year on diversity and inclusion. Rooted in the dreams of immigrants and inspired by the promise of opportunity, Asian Americans Advancing Justice advocates for an America in which all Americans can benefit equally from, and contribute to, the American dream. Similar to my nonprofit, the Tulong Foundation, AAAJ's mission is to advance the civil and human rights for Asian Americans and to build and promote a fair and equitable society for all. The Tulong Foundation and AAJC is the voice for the Asian American community – the fastest-growing population in the U.S. – fighting for our civil rights through education, litigation, and public policy advocacy. These two organizations serve to empower our communities by bringing local and national constituencies together and ensuring Asian Americans are able to participate fully in our democracy.
The event will be a Fashion and Arts show bringing together Asian American designers and creators for a night of raising awareness of the rise of anti-asian hate crimes across the United States. Funds will directly benefit both nonprofits and allocated towards cultural conversation workshops, the establishment of an Asian American cultural center in Dallas, and the families and victims of the recent attacks. The event already has several small Asian American designers lined up for the event including, but not limited too, Fernando Wong, Nobles Creations, and Jui Zhao.
Peerspace is on a mission to bring people together. We believe it is impossible to achieve that goal unless we also fight for equality and access to resources in the communities we serve.
Having a space to gather, create, and exchange ideas is an important part of any movement. In order to magnify voices that are often quieted, Peerspace will sponsor venues for people who challenge prejudice and fight for social justice and equality.
Each quarter, we will sponsor space for three projects that are relevant to our community. These projects can range from fundraisers and educational initiatives to art exhibits and photo series.
