20 Mar Contra Costa Summit Shows Power of Solidarity Amid Challenges Facing Immigrant and AAPI Communities

Some of the approximately 250 people who gathered March 8 in Richmond for the Contra Costa Asian American Pacific Islander Coalition’s Stop the Hate Multi-Racial Collaborative Unity Summit. (America Leon / The CC Pulse)

By America Leon

The Contra Costa Asian American Pacific Islander Coalition brought about 250 people together March 8 in Richmond for the Stop the Hate Multi-Racial Collaborative Unity Summit.

The event was organized in response to federal cuts to social services, attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion, widespread hostility toward marginalized groups and immigrants, and the fear and uncertainty many community members are feeling as a result. The event featured food, performances and an opportunity for attendees to connect with their neighbors. It also fostered productive conversations on the larger political issues affecting their communities, with a focus on finding healing, support and solutions.

“There’s nothing more motivating than a crisis,” said Vy Vo, founder, executive director and CEO of the Contra Costa Asian American Pacific Islander Coalition. 

The summit opened with a lion dance and martial arts performances by Yee’s Martial Arts, followed by words from District 1 county Supervisor John Gioia. 

“Twenty percent of our residents are immigrants,” and “37% of the small businesses in Contra Costa County are owned by immigrants,” said Gioia, emphasizing the importance of “protecting families and protecting our economy” by supporting Asian American Pacific Islander and immigrant communities. 

Participants then broke into groups to discuss three key questions. Responses to “How are you feeling?” reflected feelings of exhaustion, worry, stress and frustration. The group answering “What would motivate you?” emphasized the need for community, resources, organizing and education. In response to “How do we fight back/mobilize?” attendees highlighted the need for accessible services, advocacy, diverse representation and community involvement.

“There is so much power within us as individuals and as a community,” said Wesley Alexander, CEO of CoBiz Richmond, a co-working space.

Kathleen Sullivan, regional director of Black Women Organized for Political Action, emphasized the importance of turning crisis-inspired motivation into movement. “We have to come together, as we are … today, and we need to organize,” said Sullivan. 

The event also provided an opportunity for families and community members to learn about free or low-cost resources offered by the Center for Empowering Refugees and Immigrants and the Korean Community Center of the East Bay. 

>>>Q&A: ‘Our Folks Are Scared’ — Center Gives Refugees, Immigrants Therapy for Racism and Other Trauma<<<

Pysay Phinith, a licensed clinical social worker and program director at the Korean Community Center, shared information about bilingual-bicultural health education services for Asian immigrants and other BIPOC communities. Ariam Araya, outreach worker at CERI, connected attendees with mental health services, public benefit programs, and psychiatric clinics across the Bay Area. He also introduced mental and behavioral health apps like Soluna and BrightLife Kids.

Made possible through collaboration with various community partners, the summit offered a platform for positive change through civic engagement and policy advocacy. 

“This is just the beginning,” said Christy Lam-Julian, a Pinole City Council member and one of the individuals behind the event. Lam-Julian reiterated the importance of fostering community and creating opportunities, acknowledging the team of Breaking Barriers Fellows who gained leadership skills by helping organize the conference. 

The summit ended on an uplifting note with performances by three young dancers.

Coming together, especially during times of crisis, is empowering.

 “Together, we are not the minority anymore… Together, we are strong,” said Richmond City Council member Soheila Bana, who was in attendance.

The summit highlighted the power of supportive conversations, inspiring participants to advocate for one another and mobilize for meaningful policy change. The event reinforced the strength that comes from community solidarity during times of crisis.