As an Asian American-owned business, iQ 360 applauds the many organizations whose mission it is to uplift, celebrate and protect our Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. During this Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are especially grateful for the good work that these organizations accomplish.
We asked a few iQers to highlight the AAPI organizations that they’re involved in and share more about their experiences here. We encourage others to get involved and donate to meaningful AAPI organizations.
The Hawaii United Okinawa Association (HUOA)
The Hawaii United Okinawa Association (HUOA) promotes, preserves and perpetuates the Okinawan culture in Hawaii. The HUOA is committed to honoring the legacy of Okinawan immigrants who came to Hawaii looking for a better life and supports the continued relationship between Hawaii and Okinawa.
HUOA has taught me the value of community and the power of knowing your heritage. For many of our lifelong members, the HUOA gives us a connection to our past as well as a way to ensure that we can share our stories with future generations.
-Lynn Miyahira
The U.S.-Japan Council
The U.S.-Japan Council promotes people-to-people connections between the U.S. and Japan. Its focus on ESG, youth exchange and leadership development has resulted in meaningful collaboration between businesses, government entities and nonprofits. Through USJC, I’ve made lifelong friendships and have developed a deep appreciation for the importance of the bond between our two countries.
-Lori Teranishi
The National Japanese American Memorial
The National Japanese American Memorial commemorates the heroic military service and patriotism of Japanese Americans during World War II. It also stands as a reminder of the unjust incarceration of 120,000 Japanese Americans.
The memorial and the story it represents inspire me to stand in solidarity with others who experience xenophobia and discrimination; to vigilantly guard our constitutional rights through education and civic engagement; and to ensure that what happened to Japanese Americans during World War II does not happen again to any other group, regardless of race, religion or national origin.
-Rhianna Chung