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Press Releases & Statements
CAPIAA Stands with Our Immigrant Communities.
CAPIAA Stands with Our Immigrant Communities
The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA) stands in solidarity with our diverse communities of color and denounces the federal immigration raids and sweeps of our most vulnerable populations.
“Just 2 miles from where I sat in my parents’ home, troops moved in. I grew up in hard-working immigrant neighborhoods and I know the fear of families on the brink of being torn apart,” said Commissioner Helen Lee.
California is home to one of the most racially diverse groups and is strong because of its diversity, resilience, and commitment to justice. With a vibrant population of nearly 11 million immigrants, comprising 25% of its total population, our state boasts remarkable diversity, which includes the Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs).
“We must lead with compassion and ensure everyone feels safe. We are grateful to our state leaders for standing by our families who call California home,” said Executive Director Khydeeja Alam.
Among the AANHPI groups are Southeast Asians, a community with one of the longest refugee histories in the United States, who have been overlooked and are facing disproportionate amounts of detainment and deportation through recent ICE checkpoints in Los Angeles and Orange County.
These tactics continue to create unnecessary chaos, harm our people, and undermine the state’s efforts, including CAPIAA’s efforts, to build trust between the government and marginalized communities. We support Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta to oppose the federal deployment of military forces, including the National Guard, used to frighten families and create fearmongering across the state of California. This has put many families and parents in a state of uncertainty, where children are afraid to go to school and community members are afraid to step outside their homes. No one should have to live in fear.
“As an immigrant child and naturalized citizen of United States service members, I am concerned over the lack of constitutional procedure and due process, leaving innocent people open to harm. We stand alongside our community members and leaders,” said Vice Chair Kirin Macapugay.
CAPIAA remains dedicated to bridging the gaps between the government and those we serve. We encourage you to connect with culturally competent, educational resources and utilize the tools provided, and share with us your feedback on additional resources needed.
- California DOJ Immigrant Rights:
- Legal hotline: (800) 952‑5225
- Website: oag.ca.gov/immigrant
- California Courts Self-Help Guide: selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/immigration
- California Department of Social Services Immigration Services Bureau: cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/immigration
- California Immigrant Guide: immigrantguide.ca.gov
- LA County Office of Immigrant Affairs: oia.lacounty.gov
- Legal Aid Foundation of LA: lafla.org
- AJSOCAL: Asian Americans Advancing Justice SoCal: ajsocal.org/immigration
- CHIRLA: chirla.org
- Immigrants are Los Angeles: immigrantsarela.com/knowyourrights
“A thriving economy depends on the well-being and inclusion of all, including our immigrant families and workforce. They are the heart of California’s economy,” said Chair Jason Paguio.
The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA) is a state agency dedicated to elevating the political, economic, and social issues of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. CAPIAA advises the Governor, Legislature, other state agencies, and departments on issues relating to AANHPI communities and works to foster understanding, inclusivity, and collaboration across the state. Learn more at capiaa.ca.gov.
A Tool for Change: 2025 Fact Sheet on California’s AANHPI Communities
A Tool for Change: 2025 Fact Sheet on California’s AANHPI Communities
A Tool for Change: 2025 Fact Sheet on California’s AANHPI Communities
Sacramento, CA – Released by the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA) and AAPI Data, the 2025 Fact Sheet: AANHPIs in California encourages policymakers and leaders across government, education, and community organizations to utilize this fact sheet as a tool in better serving and addressing the issues of the diverse Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities.
This fact sheet, drawing on AAPI Data’s Community Data Explorer, provides a comprehensive view of AANHPI ethnic groups and their populations by county, voting eligibility, language accessibility, educational attainment, and poverty rate.
This release builds on CAPIAA and AAPI Data’s shared goals: prioritize disaggregated data, uplift community stories, and inform inclusive public policy. The fact sheet was also central to a timely May 19 panel “2026 Governor’s Race & the Asian Pacific Islander Community” co-hosted by CAPIAA and the UC Student & Policy Center which brought leaders and experts, including executive directors Khydeeja Alam and Dr. Karthick Ramakrishnan, California State Assemblymember Mike Fong, and Chief Justice and PPIC President Tani Cantil-Sakauye who emphasized the importance of an informed AANHPI electorate, evidence-based policymaking, and sustained civic participation.
“To create meaningful systems change, we must see ourselves reflected in data,” said Khydeeja Alam, CAPIAA Executive Director. “Disaggregated data is integral to serving the diverse AANHPI communities in our state and creating more equitable policies and access to resources.”
California is now home to over 7.3 million AANHPIs, with over 25% growth in the last decade, making it one of the fastest-growing racial groups in the state.
“Given the fast growth and dynamism of AANHPIs in California, it is essential to have a timely and accurate understanding of our community,” said Dr. Karthick Ramakrishnan, AAPI Data Executive Director and Founder. “Having this disaggregated data is an important step towards ensuring that our fast-growing communities are accurately represented.”
As the AANHPI population increases, so must the systems that serve them. Local and state agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations must utilize up-to-date disaggregated data to effectively serve the AANHPI communities in California. That starts with understanding the AANHPI communities.
About CAPIAA
The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA) is a state agency dedicated to elevating the political, economic, and social issues of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. CAPIAA advises the Governor, Legislature, other state agencies, and departments on issues relating to AANHPI communities and works to foster understanding, inclusivity, and collaboration across the state. Learn more at capiaa.ca.gov.
About AAPI Data
AAPI Data is a national research and policy organization producing accurate data to support community narratives that drive action toward enduring solutions for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. AAPI Data is based at the Asian American Research Center at the University of California Berkeley. Learn more at aapidata.com.
One in Ten: Call to Invest in AANHPI’s Future
One in Ten: A Call to Invest in AANHPI's Future in the Inland Empire
Riverside, CA and Sacramento, CA – Recently released by the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA) and AAPI Data, One in Ten: The State of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the Inland Empire highlights a powerful case for investment in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. The #OneInTen report was made possible with support from the James Irvine Foundation, and its community launch was additionally supported by the California Endowment and the Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF). The launch convening brought together nonprofit leaders, researchers, and funders to amplify findings and shape the region’s priorities. Building on this momentum, IECF announced the launch of its AANHPI Fund. This is an early, pivotal step and a call towards investing in the region’s growing AANHPI community.
This report is the first comprehensive and disaggregated study of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander populations in the Inland Empire, one of California’s fastest-growing and most demographically diverse regions.
“This is not just about a report, it is about convening regional leaders, spotlighting lived experiences from those in the Inland Empire, and planting the seeds for transformation that begins at the local level,” said Khydeeja Alam, Executive Director of CAPIAA. “What you see in the report is a testament to our rising communities, putting real stories and faces behind data.”
At its core, the report calls for visibility, investment, and recognition of AANHPI communities as essential to the future of the Inland Empire and across the state.
“AANHPIs remain underrepresented in critical discussions about economic opportunity, political leadership, and equitable access to resources,” said Dr. Karthick Ramakrishnan, Executive Director and Founder of AAPI Data. “This milestone report ensures our communities are no longer overlooked. It puts research and disaggregated data behind the demand for meaningful inclusion.”
Local leaders echoed the urgency of these findings, emphasizing the contributions of the AANHPI communities and the need for long-term investment that the report calls for.
“As the first Asian American Mayor in both the City of San Bernardino and San Bernardino County, I’m proud to represent a region that reflects the growing diversity of our state,” said San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran. “The Inland Empire’s AANHPI communities have long contributed to our region’s cultural, civic, and economic life. This report is an important step in recognizing those contributions and investing in our future.”
The report shares how fast the AANHPI community is growing and what challenges they face:
- Demographic Growth: AANHPI populations have more than doubled over the past two decades. Filipino Americans are the largest subgroup, followed by Chinese, Vietnamese, Indian, Korean, and Pacific Islander communities.
- Public Health Disparities: Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander residents in San Bernardino County experienced the highest COVID-19 death rates in California, more than double the statewide average.
- Economic Contributions: AANHPIs play vital roles in healthcare, logistics, and small business sectors that keep the Inland Empire running.
- Resource Gaps: AANHPI-serving organizations operate with limited capacity due to persistent underinvestment, despite growing demand for culturally relevant services.
Community leaders and advocates shared powerful testimonials that brought these issues to life by sharing how the report’s themes connect to their own lives and work and demanding representation and investment.
“As a new resident, it’s inspiring to see this kind of visibility and momentum,” said Abigail Pidazo from Perris Valley. “It expands Filipino representation beyond established circles and brings in voices across generations.”
“We don’t just want to be represented by flags,” said Lolofi Soakai of MALO. “We want to be in powerful spaces, part of the conversation. We have more to offer and we deserve a seat at the table.”
“People often overlook the Inland Empire,” said Malek Bendelhoum of Sahaba Initiative. “But for those of us who live and work here, we know the truth: the work never stops. We show up, we get the work done, no matter what. That’s what defines the IE. Just imagine what’s possible when real investment meets that commitment.”
That commitment is now being met with action. The announcement of the AANHPI Fund comes when the Inland Empire’s AANHPI communities need it the most. The AANHPI Fund is a philanthropic initiative led by the Inland Empire Community Foundation designed to drive strategic investment in local communities.
“The launch of the new AANHPI Fund marks a turning point,” said Benjamin Naté of the Inland Empire Community Foundation. “By combining data, community vision, and advisory leadership, we’re setting the tone for the Inland Empire’s future.”
About CAPIAA
The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA) is a state agency dedicated to elevating the political, economic, and social issues of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. CAPIAA advises the Governor, Legislature, other state agencies, and departments on issues relating to AANHPI communities and works to foster understanding, inclusivity, and collaboration across the state. Learn more at capiaa.ca.gov.
About AAPI Data
AAPI Data is a national research and policy organization producing accurate data to support community narratives that drive action toward enduring solutions for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. Learn more at aapidata.com
CAPIAA Calls for Unity, Power-Building, and Continued Advocacy for the AANHPI Communities
CAPIAA Calls for Unity, Power-Building, and Continued Advocacy for the AANHPI Communities
Sacramento, CA — The California Commission on Asian & Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA) Calls for Unity, Power-Building, and Continued Advocacy for the AANHPI Communities.
Congratulations are extended to Donald Trump as he prepares to take the oath as the 47th president of the United States. During his previous term, the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities dealt with dual crises: the COVID-19 pandemic and a surge of anti-Asian hate. These crises affected AANHPI communities, particularly in immigration, health and well-being, education, social justice, and civil rights. Exclusionary policies and divisive rhetoric further compromised the safety and well-being of our community.
During these challenges, California set a powerful example by investing in its communities with responsive policies and budget investments. The state’s landmark policies and budget investment supported AANHPI and other vulnerable communities, reinforcing California’s role as a national model of inclusion.
“While we carry the weight of past struggles, our focus remains on building a future where AANHPI communities are valued, respected, and included,” said Chair Jason Paguio. “The difficult paths navigated by our communities remind us what’s at stake. We stand ready and resilient, advocating for comprehensive solutions at every level of government—from our neighborhoods in California to the national stage.”
California has been at the forefront of supporting its over six million-strong AANHPI communities. These diverse AANHPI communities contribute significantly to the state’s economic and cultural strength. However, they also face unique challenges that require ongoing support and inclusive policies.
“California’s diverse AANHPI community is strong and resilient, but lasting progress requires ongoing collaboration and partnerships. We will preserve what we have built in California and continue protecting and strengthening our community,” said Executive Director Khydeeja Alam. “The work ahead is immense, but so is our commitment to listen, represent, and respond to the safety and rights of AANHPIs. We urge our leaders and communities alike to stay proactive, ensuring that the rights and well-being of all are upheld.”
CAPIAA acknowledges the challenges posed by divisive practices of the past yet remains hopeful for the future. Uniting to safeguard the rights and representation of all AANHPI and other vulnerable communities is essential. Through listening sessions, roundtables, policy discussions, research, and Commission meetings and events, we are committed to engaging directly with the people we represent.
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The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA) is a state agency dedicated to elevating the political, economic, and social issues of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. CAPIAA advises the Governor, Legislature, other state agencies and departments on issues relating to APIA communities, and works to foster understanding, inclusivity, and collaboration across the state.
For more information, please visit our CAPIAA website: www.capiaa.ca.gov
CAPIAA Celebrates Presumptive Presidential Nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris
The California Commission on Asian & Pacific Islander American Affairs Celebrates Presumptive Presidential Nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris
Sacramento, CA — The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Commission (CAPIAA) celebrates Vice President Kamala Harris’ presumptive nomination for President of the United States.
Vice President Kamala Harris is the daughter of immigrants, with her mother of South Asian descent and her father of Jamaican descent, making her a first-generation American. Her nomination marks the first time a person of Asian descent and the first Black woman has been nominated for president by a major party. Harris’s background reflects significant milestones regarding diversity and representation in American politics.
“During his term, President Joe Biden has been a dedicated and trusted partner in elevating, strengthening, and safeguarding our Asian-American and Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander community. His significant contributions include signing the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act and strengthening the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders,” said Chair Jason Paguio. “We are witnessing history with the presumptive nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris as the first person of Asian descent to be a presidential nominee by a major party. This milestone signifies progress not just for our state, but for the entire country, as we strive for a more inclusive and representative nation.”
Vice President Kamala Harris has a long history of public service in California. She began her career as Deputy District Attorney in Alameda County from 1990 to 1998. Harris then served as District Attorney of San Francisco from 2004 to 2011. In 2011, she became California’s Attorney General, holding the position until 2017. Harris was elected as a U.S. Senator for California in 2017 and served until she became Vice President in January 2021.
“Congratulations to Vice President Kamala Harris on her presidential candidate nomination,” said Executive Director Khydeeja Alam. “As a South Asian and a mother, I see firsthand how vital representation is. Her nomination embodies goodwill, and we hope she unites the community and truly represents the diverse voices that make our community strong and vibrant.”
As of the 2020 census data, over six million people in California identify as Asian & Pacific Islander, representing the largest Asian population in the United States. These communities contribute to the state’s economy and play a vital role in its national political landscape.
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The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA) is a state agency dedicated to elevating the political, economic, and social issues of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. CAPIAA advises the Governor and Legislature on effective responses to the needs and concerns of the state’s diverse Asian and Pacific Islander American communities and works to foster understanding, inclusivity, and collaboration across the state.
For more information, please visit our CAPIAA website: www.capiaa.ca.gov
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