Gay Asian Pacific Alliance Interview

#638 Great.com Talks With... Gay Asian Pacific Alliance

The GLBTQ+ Asian Pacific Alliance (GAPA) was founded in 1988 in San Francisco as a response to the AIDS crisis, which disproportionately affected the LGBTQ+ community. Initially formed to provide support and resources during a time of great need, GAPA has evolved into a dynamic organization dedicated to the broader mission of empowering LGBTQ+ Asian and Pacific Islanders.

Today, we spoke with Rowland Mendoza, the Vice Chair of GAPA, and Mx Kiki Krunch, one of the Current reigning Ms GAPA 2023, about their ongoing efforts to uplift and support LGBTQ+ elders. The organization’s dedication to creating a space where these individuals can be seen, heard, and valued is truly remarkable. Through its programs and advocacy work, GAPA is actively challenging the stereotypes and stigmas that often surround ageing in the LGBTQ+ community.

Creating Safe Spaces Through Song

At the heart of GAPA’s work is a commitment to fostering a strong and visible LGBTQ+ API community. This includes providing spaces where individuals can come together to share their experiences, celebrate their identities, and advocate for the rights and recognition they deserve. GAPA understands that for many in the API community, the intersections of race, sexuality, and cultural identity can present unique challenges. Through its programs and initiatives, GAPA aims to address these challenges head-on, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

One of GAPA’s key focuses is on cultural preservation and education. By organizing events that celebrate API heritage, GAPA not only strengthens the bonds within the community but also raises awareness and understanding in the broader LGBTQ+ landscape. These events serve as a powerful reminder that the API LGBTQ+ community is rich in diversity and deserves to be recognized and respected.

GAPA actively engages in advocacy, working to ensure that LGBTQ+ API issues are represented in the broader social and political discourse. Whether it’s through policy work, public speaking, or community organizing, GAPA is dedicated to making sure that the voices of LGBTQ+ APIs are not only heard but also acted upon.

GAPA’s work is a testament to the power of community and the importance of visibility. By creating spaces where LGBTQ+ APIs can feel seen and supported, GAPA is not only addressing immediate needs but also laying the groundwork for a more inclusive future.

Want to know more about the GLBTQ+ Asian Pacific Alliance (GAPA)? Make sure to read their stories, as every one of these stories matters, and to follow them on Facebook and Instagram.