Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC)

The Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing civil and human rights for Asian Americans and promoting a fair and equitable society for all. Established in 1991, AAJC is headquartered in Washington, D.C. and has offices in Atlanta, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

The organization was founded in response to the rise of hate crimes against Asian Americans and the lack of representation and advocacy for the Asian American community. Since its inception, AAJC has been a leading voice in advocating for policies that address the needs of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) and fighting against discrimination and bias in all forms.

AAJC’s work covers a range of issues that impact the AAPI community, including immigration, voting rights, education, and employment. The organization works to protect and advance the rights of AAPIs by advocating for policies that promote fairness, justice, and equality. AAJC also engages in litigation, public education, and community organizing to advance these goals.

One of AAJC’s notable accomplishments is its advocacy for the Voting Rights Act of 2021, which aims to restore the protections for voters that were weakened by the Supreme Court’s 2013 decision in Shelby County v. Holder. AAJC has been a leading voice in the fight for voting rights and has played a key role in building a diverse coalition of organizations to advocate for this legislation.

Another important initiative of AAJC is its work to combat hate crimes and hate incidents against AAPIs. In response to the sharp increase in hate crimes against AAPIs during the COVID-19 pandemic, AAJC launched the Stand Against Hatred website to track and respond to incidents of hate and bias. The organization also advocates for policies that address the root causes of hate and bias, such as cultural competency training for law enforcement and hate crime prevention education in schools.

AAJC has also been a vocal advocate for immigrant rights and has worked to protect the rights of undocumented immigrants and refugees. The organization has challenged the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and has advocated for comprehensive immigration reform that provides a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.

In addition to its policy advocacy and litigation work, AAJC also provides direct services to AAPI communities through its legal services and community organizing programs. The organization’s legal services program provides free legal assistance to low-income AAPIs in areas such as immigration, housing, and employment. AAJC’s community organizing program works to empower AAPI communities by providing resources and training on advocacy and civic engagement.

Overall, the work of AAJC is crucial in advancing civil and human rights for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and promoting a more just and equitable society for all. Through its advocacy, litigation, and direct services, AAJC has made significant strides in addressing the challenges facing AAPI communities and fighting against discrimination and bias in all forms.

We are extremely proud to be a part of their community partner network and we encourage you to learn more about them by visiting their page!