"Asian Americans, like other marginalized communities, have not been able to tell their story as part of the American story," says Jennifer Lien, board member of the Twin Ports Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Collective. "There has been a long, long history of Asians living in America that have experienced marginalization... we want to tell our stories."
Events and activities that the Twin Ports APIDA Collective is involved with include potlucks, the Dragon Boat Festival, and events to welcome college students. "This is a real driving force for our work," says Lien about connecting with college students and area youth. "Most of our children grow up, leave, and do not come back."
Through community events and connection with the greater community - as well as with students that arrive in the Twin Ports for school - The Twin Ports APIDA Collective is aiming to create a culture that will make the area feel like home to younger generations.
May is Asian Pacific Islander Heritage month. For more information and to keep updated on future events, visit the Twin Ports APIDA Collective website.
You can hear Community Connection every Tuesday and Thursday at 8am on Northland Morning.
