Groups Come Together to Create Safe Spaces for Asian American LGBTQ Community

Several groups in the D.C. area are raising awareness about what it means to be LGBTQ and Asian American. “We exist in so many different ways, and our stories are so important,” said Mitch Chan of Asian Pacific Islander Queer Society. The Asian Pacific Islander Queer Society holds social events and provide a support system, letting people simply be themselves. “When you’re in Asian spaces, it’s not always guaranteed to be safe,” Chan said. “It’s not safe for me even with my family, who don’t really necessarily understand what it means for me to be queer.” It’s why she and other Asian American groups are working to create change. This year, the groups are getting together to hold a virtual art showcase and uplift Asian American LGBTQ artists.