Many AAPI organizations began as grassroots gatherings of community activists voicing concerns surrounding injustice and inequality. To address the growing needs of their communities, these activities developed into professional organizations that advocate for economic empowerment and workforce development.
The Chinatown Manpower Project’s (CMP) mission is “to promote economic self-sufficiency and career advancement [for] communities of diverse backgrounds, with a strong track record in supporting the Asian immigrant population.” Over the past 50 years, they have provided immigrants and first-time job seekers with English language and work readiness classes.
CMP celebrates new graduates of its Financial Literacy and Retail Banking bilingual intensive program. Courtesy of the Chinatown Manpower Project Facebook.
Asian Americans for Equality (AAFE) was founded in 1974, when grassroots organizers protested private developers who refused to hire workers of Asian heritage for a construction project in Chinatown. In 1985, AAFE decided that hands-on problem solving served the community better than protesting. It became one of the first organizations in New York City to develop affordable housing by utilizing low-income housing tax credits. Eventually, AAFE expanded to develop innovative housing solutions and award low-interest loans to immigrant small-business owners.
Asian Americans for Equality (AAFE) at a community event. Courtesy of New York State Homes and Community Renewal.
Chhaya CDC (Chhaya Community Development Corporation) “builds inclusive and thriving neighborhoods by fostering the self-determination, housing stability, and economic well-being of South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities across New York City.” Chhaya is also dedicated to expanding the workforce by hiring directly from local AAPI communities, empowering individual voices to be tools for change.
Courtesy of Chhaya CDC.
The South Asian Council for Social Services’ (SACSS) mission is to “empower and integrate underserved South Asians and other communities” to achieve self-sufficiency and well-being. The organization champions healthcare access for all, support for seniors, food justice and preparing community members in workforce development.
Courtesy of the SACSS official website.