​APIAHF is the oldest and largest health advocacy organization working with AA & NH/PI communities across the nation, in the US Territories, and with the US‐affiliated Pacific jurisdictions. By providing policy and political analysis, research and data support, and effective communications strategies, APIAHF supports local AA & NH/PI communities to have an influence on local, state, and national policy. MISSION — Achieving health equity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities through law, policy and practice. ABOUT — Offices in San Francisco and Washington, DC Established 1986 APIAHF is the oldest health advocacy organization working with AA & NH/PI communities across the nation, in the US Territories, and with the US‐affiliated Pacific jurisdictions. By providing policy and political analysis, research and data support, and effective communications strategies, APIAHF supports local AA & NH/PI communities to have an influence on local, state, and national policy. By providing grants, training, technical assistance, and consulting, APIAHF is a source of key resources so that communities can mobilize and grow stronger in their coalitions and organizational structures. VISION STATEMENT — APIAHF envisions a healthier future for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, inspired and driven by community. VALUES — RESPECT because we affirm the identity, rights and dignity of all people. FAIRNESS in how people are treated by others and by institutions, including who participates in decision making processes. EQUITY in power, opportunities, and resources to address obstacles, hindering vulnerable communities and groups from living their healthiest lives.

April 10, 2025 PRESS RELEASE HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE SAVE ACT: A DIRECT THREAT TO AANHPI VOTER ACCESS April 10, 2025 WASHINGTON —The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) condemns today’s passage of the SAVE Act (H.R. 22) in the U.S. House of Representatives—if enacted into law—it would disenfranchise millions of eligible voters, particularly from Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. Further, this will disproportionately harm voters who live in rural areas, especially in the Midwest and South; along with those with accessibility needs including elders. The legislation would require voters to present documentation—such as a birth certificate or passport—to register or update voter registration in person, which may result in people having to drive needless hours to vote. It would also eliminate online registration in 42 states, harm vote-by-mail initiatives, and make commonly accepted forms of ID, like REAL IDs, military IDs, or tribal IDs, insufficient to prove citizenship. Juliet K. Choi, president & CEO of APIAHF, issued the following statement: “The passage of the SAVE Act is a dangerous step backward for our democracy and brings us back to the time of a poll tax. Rather than safeguarding elections, this legislation erects new barriers to the ballot box—disproportionately harming communities like ours that already face systemic obstacles to voting. “AANHPI voters have long been impacted by discriminatory practices like voter purges of eligible voters due to minor discrepancies in name spellings. These bureaucratic errors have silenced thousands of our voices at the polls. This bill would worsen those barriers by undermining state-level solutions that are beginning to fix the problem. “AANHPI communities—especially naturalized citizens and first-generation voters—are also among the highest users of vote-by-mail and online registration systems. In 2020, over 60 percent of Asian American voters cast ballots by mail, and online registration has been a critical entry point for our communities to participate in civic life. “Let’s be clear: this is not about election security. This is about restricting access and silencing voices. We call on the Senate to reject this harmful and unnecessary legislation.” APIAHF remains committed to protecting the rights of all Americans—regardless of race, language, or immigration background—to access free and fair elections. # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

MAY 3, 2024 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF APPLAUDS HHS ACTIONS TO EXPAND HEALTH CARE FOR DACA RECIPIENTS MAY 3, 2024 WASHINGTON —Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), finalized a Rule under the Administrative Procedure Act that will expand health coverage for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients by opening up Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace plans. This Rule will benefit an estimated 100,000 Dreamers. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) and former Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, gave the following statement: “After a historic Marketplace enrollment period, with over 21 million individuals selecting Affordable Care Act health insurance, we are thrilled by HHS’s bold action to expand access to the Marketplace to more Americans. In addition to access to affordable health coverage, Dreamers will also be able to utilize federal subsidies for these plans. “For far too long, DACA recipients, approximately 10 percent of whom are Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders, have been denied access to many health care options provided by the Affordable Care Act despite living and residing in the United States. Today’s announcement continues the Biden Administration’s commitment that health care is a right, not a privilege.” ### The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

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MARCH 28, 2024 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF APPLAUDS OMB REVISIONS TO DIRECTIVE 15 FOR ACCURATE, INCLUSIVE FEDERAL DATA STANDARDS MARCH 28, 2024 WASHINGTON —Today, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released revisions to Statistical Policy Directive No. 15: Standards for Maintaining, Collecting, and Presenting Federal Data on Race and Ethnicity. The revised standards modernize the collection of race and ethnicity data and improve how federal agencies analyze and publish that data. Directive 15 was last updated in 1997 to create separate “Asian” and “Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander and expand “Hispanic” to include “Hispanic or Latino.” APIAHF President & CEO Juliet K. Choi released the following statement: “APIAHF is proud to have advocated for revised standards, including submitting comments with over 40 national, state, and local partners through the regulatory process, that would reflect the communities that span our great nation. The updated Directive 15 is the culmination of work across all communities and between federal agencies toward data equity in the U.S. “In particular, we applaud including the new Middle Eastern or North African (MENA) category. We know first-hand the importance of communities being seen and represented, and this new designation will mean critical resources, including in-language, can be delivered to MENA communities. We also applaud OMB’s commitment to revising these standards and establishing a regular review ahead of each decennial census. “We look to OMB’s continued commitment to build upon this great work by requiring all federal departments and agencies to collect, analyze, use, report, and disseminate disaggregated data on communities as the minimum standards. Accurate, inclusive data is core to the work that we can achieve and has a meaningful impact on how resources are allocated. We look forward to continuing collaboration with OMB as they work to implement these new revisions.” # # # BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

MARCH 7, 2024 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF RESPONSE TO THE STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS MARCH 7, 2024 WASHINGTON—Tonight, in his State of the Union address, President Joe Biden outlined the Administration’s progress over the past year, and his vision for the remainder of his term. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF), released the following statement: “We applaud President Biden’s and Congress’ continued efforts to reduce health care costs and broaden quality health coverage for American families, including wins from the Inflation Reduction Act. “This month, we commemorate four years since the start of the deadly, global COVID-19 virus that caused devastating impacts across our country. Today, our country is back, stronger than ever, with American families seeing dividends from policies that have reduced the coverage gap, lowered prescription drug costs, and capped drug costs for seniors. In fact, in the 2023-24 ACA Open Enrollment period, a record-breaking 21.3 million Americans enrolled in marketplace health plans. “As we celebrate the wins, we also look forward to the opportunities to promote health equity in care and research mentioned tonight, including innovation for rare diseases and cancer through ARPA-H and new initiatives on women’s health research. “APIAHF is proud of the progress our country has made to strengthen and expand health care and health equity, and reiterate the President’s statements to preserve that right for all people, including protections for reproductive freedoms and privacy. We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with both the Administration and Congress to improve the health of our nation.” # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

MARCH 13, 2025 PRESS RELEASE LEADING CIVIL RIGHTS ORGANIZATIONS DENOUNCE PROPOSED HISTORIC MEDICAID BUDGET CUTS AND ANALYZE THE IMPACT ON COMMUNITIES OF COLOR MARCH 13, 2025 WASHINGTON —Today, 11 of the nation's leading civil rights and health equity organizations held a joint press briefing to release a report analyzing the Medicaid cuts passed recently by the U.S. House of Representatives. The House-passed Budget Resolution framework would make the largest Medicaid cuts in American history , placing at risk the health and financial security of more than 70 million children, seniors, people with disabilities and working families . While people of all backgrounds would be in danger, the report finds that communities of color would suffer especially widespread harm: nearly 42 million people, or approximately a third of all people of color in the U.S., rely on Medicaid for health care and would be placed in harm’s way if the House’s cuts become law.     The group underscored the importance and urgency of this issue as members of Congress from both chambers consider the House-passed bill to develop a binding blueprint for budget reconciliation legislation that could pass with support from the majority party alone. Click here to watch and replay the press briefing. The House Budget Resolution would cut at least $880 billion from Medicaid over the next 10 years to help finance $4.5 trillion in tax breaks = primarily benefiting the extremely wealthy and large corporations. The report documents how communities of color are especially at risk, with Medicaid covering half of all children of color and more than a fourth of adults of color aged 65 and older. Medicaid currently furnishes health care and protection from unaffordable medical bills to:     20.3 million Latinos , including half of all Hispanic children and nearly 3 in 10 Hispanic adults aged 65 and older.  13.3 million African Americans , including almost 60% of all Black children and more than a third of older African American adults.  4.5 million Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders , including over a quarter of children and adults aged 65 and older.  700,000 Native Americans , including 60% of all Native children and 2 in 5 older adults.    In addition, the report also finds that another 17 million Medicaid beneficiaries are part of the labor force and lack a college degree — a group that leaders from both political parties claim to support. Nearly 60% of these workers — 10.2 million people — are people of color , including 5 million Latinos, 3 million African Americans, 900,000 Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders and nearly 200,000 Native Americans.     The report highlights that people who are uninsured rather than covered by Medicaid often experience great harm as: 1) uninsured people are far more likely to go without essential care due to cost; 2) by foregoing essential care, many people who are uninsured rather than covered by Medicaid experience severe and often permanent damage to their health; 3) without health insurance, families’ health care costs skyrocket; and 4) childhood insurance gaps have profound, lifelong effects that damage children’s future health and limit their later achievement of economic self-sufficiency.    Speakers at today’s news conference noted that, in last year’s election, candidates from both parties promised to lower the cost of everyday necessities, like health care, food and housing. They charged that proposals to cut Medicaid would break these promises, since millions of Americans would face unaffordable medical bills without any health insurance protection.     Today’s report referenced public opinion polls showing that Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike oppose Medicaid cuts and have a favorable opinion of the program. For many people, this issue is personal: for almost 2 in 5 Americans , including 38% of people who voted for President Trump, Medicaid covers them or someone in their immediate family.  Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY-6), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) stated, "4.5 million Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders rely on Medicaid for affordable, quality healthcare, but President Trump and House Republicans have put forth a budget that would cut Medicaid to pay for tax breaks for billionaires. This would result in millions of Americans losing their healthcare, hospital closures, doctor shortages, and higher insurance costs. Additionally, health disparities would only worsen as individuals and families are forced to decide between putting food on the table or paying for lifesaving healthcare. We will not let this stand. CAPAC is fighting back against attempts to cut this vital lifeline." Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL-2), chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Health Braintrust stated, “House Republicans promised to lower those costs. They lied. Their proposed budget would cut $880 billion from Medicaid, putting over 300,000 people in the Second District at risk of losing healthcare. They want to take away people's healthcare to give a $4.5 trillion tax break to their wealthy friends, like Elon Musk. Republicans control the White House, the Senate, the House, and the Courts. With all this power, they decide to give more money to the wealthy and step on the American people who are already trying to make ends meet. It's unacceptable.” “Slashing Medicaid isn’t just a policy choice—it’s a direct attack on the health and well-being of millions of Americans, especially people of color who already face systemic barriers to care. These cuts would rip away essential coverage, forcing families to forgo doctor visits, life-saving medications, and critical treatments,” said Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL-9), Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) “Gutting Medicaid would only deepen inequality and push the most vulnerable further to the margins. No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and getting the care they need to survive.” Juliet K. Choi , president and CEO, Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum stated, “Across the country, hard-working families are already struggling to afford basic necessities, and any cuts to Medicaid would have devastating and long-lasting consequences—putting the health and security of millions, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities, at risk. We do not need more tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy. We need urgent action to strengthen Medicaid and ensure that our nation’s most vulnerable—including more than 1 million Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander children—do not lose access to life-saving care. This is not just about policy; it’s about people’s lives. The rights and dignity of so many Americans are on the line, and Congress must have the courage and commitment to do the right thing.” President and CEO of UnidosUS , Janet Murguía stated, “Medicaid is more than a healthcare program — At a time when Americans are struggling with rising costs, the House leadership is choosing to make life even harder. What we are seeing is a direct attack on working families, forcing them into impossible choices—skip healthcare, go into debt, or struggle to afford rent and food. Medicaid is a fundamental pillar of economic security for 70 million Americans, including more than 20 million Latinos. These cuts would not only hurt individuals but also drain communities and states of essential resources, putting public health and local economies at risk. Voters did not ask for this, and the vast majority of Americans—across party lines—oppose these cuts. UnidosUS calls on Congress to reject this dangerous proposal and protect Medicaid for the millions of families who rely on it." Derrick Johnson , NAACP ’s president and CEO, stated, “They say a budget reflects values. The proposed government funding plans make it clear that Donald Trump and his followers in Congress do not value the health of Americans. As the nation’s leading civil rights organization, we know that regressive policies disproportionately impact our community, but the effects are reverberating throughout all vulnerable communities across this nation. We’re not just talking about the 13 million Black Americans who stand to lose their care, we are talking about propelling most of this nation into deeper debt, and worsening health outcomes. The NAACP proudly stands with our partners in making this year’s Medicaid report findings public. We hope that, when equipped with the facts, Americans will band together in fighting for our collective futures.” Marc Morial , president, National Urban League (NUL) stated, “Medicaid provides healthcare to almost half children in the United States. It allows elderly parents and grandparents and people with disabilities to remain in their homes and communities, easing the burden on their loved ones. It covers the costs of life-saving medications for chronic diseases. Ripping away this lifeline for millions of working families, simply to divert ever more of our precious resources to billionaires, will further deepen the already-severe health inequities for people of color and other marginalized communities. It is a shocking betrayal of our nation's values, and the National Urban League and our allies will not stand for it." Maya Wiley , president and CEO, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights , stated, “People need to be able to see a doctor when they’re sick. Medicaid is health insurance and many people who receive it are workers in stores, on farms, and in small businesses that don't provide insurance. Whether you are a white man working for a logging company or a Black woman serving people food or someone living with a disability you deserve health insurance. People of color are more often in low paying jobs with no insurance and have higher rates of cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Lifesaving lab tests and medications are on the chopping block. Do our leaders care that Black women are 3-4 times more likely to die to be mothers or one in six Native Americans suffer from diabetes? No one voted to be forced to choose between paying rent or getting a doctor's care or a prescription. People voted for help and not to be harmed so we call on our leaders to invest in solutions rather than slashing life expectancies.” Shavon Arline-Bradley , president and CEO, National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) stated, “It is deeply concerning that the U.S. would consider cutting Medicaid. There is no humanity behind these budget cuts. Not having a safety net for health care for the least of us says that you do not understand the needs of the American people and are clearly out of touch. We join steadfastly with our partners to let members of Congress know we support the findings that will be shared in the Medicaid report being released and encourage them to read it to make a responsible budget decision.” Deborah Weinstein , executive director, Coalition on Human Needs , stated, “The drastic cuts proposed in the House budget hurt those who can least afford it, and when combined with harsh additional cuts in SNAP nutrition aid, strike a vicious and needless blow at the health and well-being of tens of millions of people, many of whom are our children, threatening their future and the nation’s. Half or more of Medicaid enrollees who are children or workers without college degrees are people of color. Most appalling: the budget denies this essential help to pay for tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy.” Brad Woodhouse , president, Protect Our Care , stated, “Every single one of the 72 million people relying on Medicaid is at risk of losing lifesaving health care. These are our neighbors and loved ones. No matter who you are, where you live, or who you voted for, if Trump and Republicans in Congress gut Medicaid, the results will devastate communities everywhere. Not only will health care costs for everyone increase, hospitals will close, nursing home patients will be kicked to the curb, and health inequities will surge, beginning with our nation’s children. Those don’t sound like ‘family values’ to me. Trump has put the health and well-being of every American in serious jeopardy all to pay for tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. It’s a disgrace.” Anthony Wright , executive director, Families USA , stated, "Cutting away at the health care lifeline from low-income families living paycheck to paycheck is cruel and counterproductive to the affordability that Americans voted for. These health care cuts will impact all of us and the health care system we all depend on, regardless of our race or ethnicity, who we voted for, or even whether we have Medicaid coverage. Cuts of hundreds of billions of dollars will harm the hospitals and clinics and health services in all our communities — especially those that that are rural, red, and/or swing constituencies.” Mara Youdelman , Managing Director of Federal Advocacy, National Health Law Program , stated, “Medicaid is a lifeline, providing millions of individuals and families with essential health care. Cutting its funding would worsen inequities and push more people into crisis. At the National Health Law Program, we believe health outcomes should not be determined by race, income, language, disability, or other identity. We call on all members of Congress to reject these harmful Medicaid cuts and work toward a just, inclusive health care system.” “The Medicaid program is one of the most effective anti-poverty programs in the country,” said Margaret Huang , president and CEO, of the Southern Poverty Law Center . “The anticipated cuts to Medicaid will be devastating to low-income families, seniors needing care, people with disabilities and people of color who already struggle to afford essential health care. The cuts will deepen the current health care crisis in the states of the Deep South - many of which have refused Medicaid expansion and will now struggle to fill the gap. It is unconscionable that Congress would abandon the most vulnerable communities in favor of prioritizing tax cuts to billionaires and corporations.” The following groups jointly released today’s report: The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights NAACP The National Council of Negro Women The National Urban League The Southern Poverty Law Center UnidosUS The Coalition on Human Needs Families USA The National Health Law Program Protect Our Care ### About APIAHF The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. About UnidosUS UnidosUS is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that serves as the nation’s largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization. Since 1968, we have challenged the social, economic, and political barriers that affect Latinos through our unique combination of expert research, advocacy, programs, and an Affiliate Network of over 300 community-based organizations across the United States and Puerto Rico. We believe in an America where economic, political, and social progress is a reality for all Latinos, and we collaborate across communities to achieve it. For more information on UnidosUS, visit www.unidosus.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and Threads. About SPLC The Southern Poverty Law Center is a catalyst for racial justice in the South and beyond, working in partnership with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements, and advance the human rights of all people. SPLC works tirelessly—through litigation, advocacy, and public education- to expand opportunity, eliminate poverty, and combat racial economic inequality in America. For more information, visit www.splcenter.org/ About The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights is a coalition charged by its diverse membership of more than 240 national organizations to promote and protect the civil and human rights of all persons in the United States. Through advocacy and outreach to targeted constituencies, The Leadership Conference works toward the goal of a more open and just society — an America as good as its ideals. About Protect Our Care Protect Our Care is dedicated to making high-quality, affordable and equitable health care a right, and not a privilege, for everyone in America. We educate the public, influence policy, support health care champions and hold politicians accountable. All of us at Protect Our Care believe strongly that health care is a human right and everyone should be able to get the health care they need regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, income or where they live. For more information on Protect Our Care, visit www.protectourcare.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and Bluesky. About NAACP The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities. NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity. Visit naacp.org for more information. About the National Health Law Program The National Health Law Program (NHeLP) protects and improves access to health care for low-income and underserved people and works to advance health equity. We believe that everyone should have access to high quality, equitable health care and be able to achieve their own highest attainable standard of health. We enforce health care and civil rights laws; advocate for better federal and state laws and policies; train, support and partner with national, state and local health and civil rights advocates; and use strategic communications to achieve these goals. About NCNW National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) is an “organization of organizations,” comprised of over 380 campus and community-based sections and 38 national women’s organizations that enlightens, inspires, and connects more than 2,000,000 women and men. Its mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families and communities. It was founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential educator and activist, and for more than fifty years, the iconic Dr. Dorothy Height was president of NCNW. Today, NCNW programs are grounded on a foundation of critical concerns that are now “NCNW Priorities.” Our organization promotes education; encourages entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and economic stability; educates women about health and promotes healthcare access, and promotes civic engagement and advocates for sound public policy and social justice. About the Coalition on Human Needs The Coalition on Human Needs (CHN) is an alliance of national organizations working together to promote public policies which address the needs of low-income and other vulnerable populations. The Coalition’s members include civil rights, religious, labor, and professional organizations, service providers and those concerned with the well-being of children, women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. For more information, go to www.chn.org About Families USA Families USA, a leading national voice for health care consumers, is dedicated to the achievement of high quality, affordable health care and improved health for all. About National Urban League The National Urban League is a historic civil rights organization dedicated to economic empowerment, equality, and social justice. Our mission is to uplift those in underserved communities by empowering communities through education and job training, housing and community development, workforce development, entrepreneurship, health, and quality of life. With 92 affiliates across 36 states and the District of Columbia, the Urban League works to improve the lives of nearly four million people annually. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

MAY 10, 2025 PRESS RELEASE RECOGNIZING AANHPI MENTAL HEALTH DAY, APIAHF CALLS FOR CHANGE & ENDORSES BICAMERAL MENTAL HEALTH BILLS MAY 10, 2025 WASHINGTON –Today, the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) recognizes Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Mental Health Day, which falls during both AANHPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. APIAHF endorsed the bicameral reintroductions of the Stop Mental Health Stigma In Our Communities Act of 2025 and the 2025 AANHPI Mental Health Day Resolution, led by Senator Mazie Hirono (HI) and Representative Judy Chu (CA-28). The Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act would instruct SAMHSA to: Establish a national outreach and education mental health and substance misuse strategy for the AANHPI community by partnering with advocacy and behavioral health organizations that have an established record of serving AANHPI communities; and Conduct research and collect disaggregated data on the state of behavioral health among AANHPI youth and on the shortage of AANHPIs in the behavioral health workforce. The National AANHPI Mental Health Day resolution recognizes the importance of mental health to the wellbeing of AANHPI families and communities and acknowledges the importance of raising awareness around mental health care. It also encourages health agencies to adopt policies to improve utilization of mental health services for the AANHPI community, as well as other marginalized communities. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, released the following statement: “Stigma and persistent barriers have kept AANHPIs from the mental health care they deserve—leading to some of the lowest utilization rates nationwide. It’s time for change. We know that better health outcomes are attainable, but we must take legislative action to invest in a mental health care workforce and infrastructure that is culturally and linguistically appropriate. The bicameral introductions of the Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act and the AANHPI Mental Health Day Resolution mark vital steps toward closing the unacceptable disparities in mental health care and chronic disease treatment experienced in our communities.” See Rep. Judy Chu’s press release HERE . # # # The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

JULY 25, 2024 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF APPLAUDS BICAMERAL CONGRESSIONAL INTRODUCTION OF THE HEALTH EQUITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2024 JULY 25, 2024 WASHINGTON —Today, Senator Mazie K. Hirono (HI), Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-12), and Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, introduced the Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2024 (HEAA). The bill focuses on eliminating racial and ethnic disparities and has been introduced by the Congressional Tri-Caucus, composed of CAPAC, the Congressional Black Caucus, and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. This is the first time HEAA has had a bicameral introduction, and over 150 members of Congress have co-sponsored the bill over the past two decades. HEAA is a comprehensive and strategic legislative blueprint and one of the few bills that contains community input from over 300 organizations, including national health justice and civil rights organizations. APIAHF president & CEO, Juliet K. Choi issued the following statement: “As our nation's demographics change, so do our health needs. Underserved and underrepresented communities face substantial barriers to obtaining quality health care and equitable health outcomes. APIAHF is proud to lead the 118th Congress's reintroduction of HEAA, with AAPCHO, to tackle these health disparities head on. HEAA invests in culturally and linguistically appropriate health care and health services, creates a pipeline for an inclusive workforce, and deploys innovative strategies to reach communities regardless of region, immigration status, gender, ethnicity, age, or disability. Achieving health equity requires a multi-faceted approach, and HEAA provides a blueprint to do exactly that.” The full text of the bill is available here . A one-pager is available here . Learn more about HEAA here . ### The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

JUNE 18, 2024 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF APPLAUDS BIDEN ADMINISTRATION CONTINUED COMMITMENT TO IMMIGRANT COMMUNITIES JUNE 18, 2024 WASHINGTON —Today, on the 12th Anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, President Biden announced two new immigration actions that continue his commitment to protecting immigrant communities. Eligible spouses and children of U.S. citizens who have lived in the U.S. for ten or more years will not need to leave the U.S., and they can remain with their families when applying for a “green card." They can also continue to legally work and receive protection from deportation while they wait. Dreamers who have earned a degree from a U.S. college or university and have an offer of employment from a U.S. employer can now quickly secure a work visa. Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) and former Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, gave the following statement: “President Biden continues to improve the lives and conditions for immigrant communities and builds upon his Spring announcement of expanding health coverage for DACA recipients by opening coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. “Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders represent about ten percent of DACA recipients, and half of all DACA recipients are college graduates. This new process will expedite their work visa from six months to two weeks. “The administration’s announcement to keep families together and working during the green card process underscores the President’s commitment to our values and makes America safer and stronger.” ### The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES

DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCTION MANAGER EPHRAIM COLBERT DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCTION MANAGER OUR BOARD OUR LEADERSHIP OUR STAFF ABOUT OUR STAFF — Ephraim is the digital media production manager for APIAHF’s Capacity for Health project. In his role, he leads the development for Ending of the HIV Epidemic video, podcast, and social media series. Ephraim uses communications and productions skills to share and amplify the voices of the voiceless. Before APIAHF Ephraim was a freelance producer working in video, radio, and podcast in the Bay Area. Ephraim has been Technical Director of live event for KPFA Radio 94.1fm and produced YouTube shows. “My community has rightfully had a history of mistrust of the healthcare system. I’d like to contribute to the rebuilding of that trust and improve the health concerns facing the African American community.” -Ephraim Next Item Previous Item BACK TO ALL STAFF

SEPTEMBER 27, 2024 PRESS RELEASE APIAHF APPLAUDS THE APPOINTMENT OF DR. KAMANA'OPONO M. CRABBE TO THE PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY COMMISSION ON ASIAN AMERICANS, NATIVE HAWAIIANS AND PACIFIC ISLANDERS SEPTEMBER 27, 2024 WASHINGTON —APIAHF Counselor Dr. Kamana‘opono M. Crabbe was sworn in as a Commissioner on the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. The Commission, co-chaired by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai, advises the President on ways the public, private and non-profit sectors can work together to advance equity, justice, and opportunity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. “We are thrilled that President Biden has appointed Dr. Kamana‘opono M. Crabbe to serve on the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islander,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO, Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum. “A life-long advocate for health equity for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities and a revered elder, Dr. Crabbe will bring a wealth of expertise and insight to the Commission.” Dr. Crabbe is a seasoned spokesperson and representative for the Native Hawaiian community on Native Hawaiian rights, social inequities, community health and resilience, and cultural, educational, economic, and political issues affecting Native Hawaiians, Hawai‘i and the Pacific. For over 30 years, he has focused his personal, academic, and professional career toward improving Native Hawaiian health and well-being. He has received several formal awards recognizing his executive leadership and accomplishments, such as the World Indigenous Peoples Conference on Education Leadership Award, The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement’s Native Hawaiian Advocate Award, and the Hawai‘i Psychological Association’s Patrick H. DeLeon, Ph.D. Lifetime Achievement Award. He is a board member for several organizations including aio Foundation, `Aha Kane Foundation for the Advancement of Native Hawaiian Males, and Ekolu Mea Nui nonprofit. APIAHF congratulates all the new Commissioners who were sworn in including the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders Executive Director Krystal Ka’ai; APIAHF’s Community Partner ACDC founder and president Vida Lin; and Sameera Fazili. The official White House announcement can be found here . ### BACK TO PRESS RELEASES Next Item Previous Item BACK TO PRESS RELEASES