Amidst the electrifying hum of the violinist, the atmosphere at the Exchange Center overlooking the Seaport waterfront was electric on May 30th, 2024 as Asian Women for Health (AWFH) held their annual but first of its kind CelebrAsians Gala. The event was a vibrant showcase of diverse Asian heritage, with guests donning a wide array of traditional garments from flowing lehnga cholis, saris and intricate kimonos to striking hanboks and shalwar kameez.

Naheed Esar, executive director of AWFH opened the evening with a powerful message, “We are gathered here as a community with a shared vision- a healthcare system that truly understands and embraces the rich diversity within our Asian communities," her words resonating deeply with the crowd.

Jean Yang, President and CEO of Vinfen who was also the keynote speaker at the event addressed the urgent need to tackle mental health issues within the Asian American community. "Barriers to mental health are complex, and we need to fight for a better, socially, and culturally aware mental healthcare system for all, especially our youth," she stated, highlighting that suicide was the leading cause of death for Asian Americans aged between 15 to 24.

Asian Women for Health has made remarkable strides in addressing these issues. For the past 10 years, the organization has held numerous workshops and awareness campaigns including organizing the Asian American Mental Health Forum. This forum brings together health practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and individuals with lived experience to combat stigmas and concerns related to mental health within Asian communities. AWFH has also been at the forefront of creating safe spaces where community members can openly discuss and seek help for mental health concerns.

In the past year alone, the organization has successfully completed three cohorts of community health workers, with an impressive 95% of participants coming from underrepresented communities and majority securing employment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the team’s effort in promoting vaccine equity has been instrumental in ensuring broader access and awareness.

"I am honored to be part of the CelebrAsians Gala tonight," said Adam Thomas, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors. "I am inspired by the strides AWFH has made and am excited to see how we will continue to close the health gap for Asian women, ensuring they receive the culturally sensitive care and support they deserve."

The gala also featured a mesmerizing Kathak performance by Anjali Nath, which captivated everyone in attendance. The traditional Indian dance, characterized by its intricate footwork and expressive storytelling, added a magical touch to the evening, leaving the audience in awe.

Adding to the significance of the occasion, Mayor Michelle Wu sent a heartfelt video message, expressing her gratitude and support for the invaluable work of AWFH, "We know that access to quality healthcare is a challenge in this country, and even if services exist, Asian Women for Health has helped highlight that our residents face additional challenges in accessing them," she commended, acknowledging the organization's dedication to the health and well-being of the Asian American community.

As the night came to a close, the sense of unity and shared purpose was palpable. The CelebrAsians Gala was not just a celebration of cultural heritage, but a testament to the collective power of a community striving for a healthcare system that embraces and understands its rich diversity.

For many queer AAPI individuals, discrimination is a multifaceted issue. They often find themselves at the intersection of racial and sexual minority statuses, facing prejudice and bias on both fronts. This dual discrimination can manifest in various forms, including micro-aggressions, exclusion, and overt hostility in both personal and professional settings.
​
Cultural Stigma and Family Dynamics

​One of the most poignant challenges is the cultural stigma within their own communities. Many AAPI cultures place a high value on family honor, respect for elders, and adherence to traditional roles and expectations. As a result, over 40% of queer AAPI individuals report hiding their sexual orientation or gender identity from their families. The fear of rejection, shame, or being disowned can create a significant emotional burden, leading to a sense of isolation and internal conflict.

Mental Health Implications

The stress of navigating these dual identities can take a toll on mental health. Studies have shown that LGBTQ+ AAPI individuals are at a higher risk for depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues compared to their heterosexual or non-AAPI counterparts. The lack of culturally competent mental health services exacerbates this issue, leaving many without the support they need.
Representation MattersRepresentation in media and public life plays a crucial role in shaping societal attitudes and providing role models for young queer AAPI individuals. Unfortunately, positive and accurate representation of this group is still limited. Increasing visibility and representation can help reduce stigma and provide a sense of validation and acceptance.

Building Supportive Communities

Organizations like NAAAP Queer Asian Supper Club and MAP for Health are vital in creating safe and supportive spaces for queer AAPI individuals. These communities offer a place to share experiences, find support, and build connections with others who understand the unique challenges they face. Events such as the AWFH upcoming discussion at CIC Boston are essential for fostering dialogue, understanding, and solidarity.

Advocacy and Progress

Activism and advocacy by and for queer AAPI individuals have been instrumental in pushing for greater inclusivity and equity. From grassroots movements to policy changes, these efforts work towards dismantling systemic barriers and creating a more accepting society.

Conclusion

The journey of navigating the world as a queer AAPI individual is fraught with challenges but also marked by resilience and strength. By acknowledging the dual discrimination they face, providing supportive communities, and increasing representation, we can work towards a future where all individuals are free to embrace their true selves without fear of stigma or discrimination.

Join us on June 27th, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM EST at CIC Boston for an insightful discussion on these topics. Together, let's celebrate our identities, share our stories, and support each other on this journey. See you there!