North Carolina Asian Americans Together hosted Party In The Park to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and held space for a vigil for the lives taken in Buffalo. The spearheaded of this event was led by the head of community engagement, Phian Tran. Party in the Park was held at Moore’s Square in Raleigh, North Carolina on May 20th and included an incredible lineup of performers, artist, vendors and community groups. A memorial altar in memory of victims of white supremacist violence was created for this event and a vigil was held for the lives taken in Buffalo. North Carolina Asian Americans Together (NCAAT) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to supporting equity and justice for all by fostering community among Asian Americans and allies in North Carolina through civic engagement, leadership development, grassroots mobilization and political participation. Their vision is for a more inclusive democracy built by drawing on the strength of diverse traditions, common values and community togetherness. They envision a socially conscious and informed society that integrates greater participation and representation by Asian Americans. They believe that for such a society to exist we must work within a cross-racial, cross-ethnic framework focused on grassroots power and solidarity. GET INVLOVED
NCAAT is doing admirable things in or community and need to be recognized for the wide range of the youth and community programs they offer. Their policy and advocacy department includes bias reporting portal, census, immigrant rights and resources, language justice, and naturalization and citizenship. Smita Sarkar and Jasiel Bernal-Muñoz of Faith Action International House were at the event sharing valuable information about their organization. FaithAction’s diverse and bilingual staff bring tremendous education and experience to the work of serving and accompanying our newest immigrants, as well as multicultural and interfaith education and bridge-building programs. GET INVOLVED
As I walked through this event I could feel the passion of the mission that each performer, artist, vendor, and community groups brought to this space, and how they use their gifts to teach and serve the community wherever they go. Each individual or group that I spoke with, musicians and poets I listened to, photos I captured, interactions I was a part of and ones that I simply observed all touched my heart to varying degrees. I feel very fortunate that I was able to attend this unique event and learn about these great local organizations that we have right here in Raleigh and the surrounding areas. Thank you NCAAT for hosting such a beautiful event!
Much love, Amy
