View the report here.
Reflecting on 2023
As we look back at this year in reflection, I think about a resounding statement our Board Member, Dr. Tony Santa Ana, made during one of Board our meetings:
“Our very existence as a Filipina/x/o organization is a stance within itself.”
Dr. Santa Ana’s comments were made in the context of discussing our organization’s strategic direction and growth – but further, made by revisiting our mission and purpose. We are a [growing] community of local, regional, and national kababayan that together, make daily stances, statements, and proclamations through our very existence.
I’m reminded daily of our collective vision and purpose. That small organizations like ours need to exist to reflect and amplify the stories of our communities. That cultivating a sustaining third sector for our people to learn about their culture and identity is necessary in today’s America. To be included, seen and heard – to be invested in.
2023 presented many firsts for us.
Our first full year at OpenSJ, a new nonprofit co-working space in downtown San José; our first LA-based initiative, the Asian American Voter Empowerment Project (AAVEP) launched alongside the Pilipino Workers Center; our first time sending organizers across the state and country to present on civics; our first in-person Lakbay Summit; our first Pinoytown Artwalk with FACTsj; our first Bahay fellows program; and our first Filipinx Advocacy Day in Sacramento [since] the pandemic.
I share these words as both a frame and backdrop for the ensuing pages that aim to tell our story and experiences from this past year. Our Annual Look Back At It Report captures the programs, services, and initiatives we drive forward with our community.
Maraming salamat, thank you to our Board, staff, organizers, interns, committee members, volunteers, partners, donors, and supporters for your continued commitment to our mission and purpose. Sulong!
In Community Spirit,
Dr. Angelica Cortez
Founder & Executive Director
LEAD Filipino