AAPI Think Tank

In April 2021, the AAPI Victory Alliance created the first-ever AAPI think tank. Our research principles are:

AAPI. Our research will center the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities by focusing on topics that impact these communities, and which these communities care about, based on evidence and data.

Inclusive. Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities are extremely diverse. The research conducted by the think tank should explore and represent that diversity by focusing its research and seeking input from individuals identifying with different national origins within the AAPI community.

Disaggregated. A central feature of the research of the think tank is disaggregation of data about AAPIs. Accordingly, as much as possible, data will distinguish between different ethnic groups within the AAPI community. This pillar is central to ensure that no community is invisibilized by aggregate data and that the lived experiences of communities are not addressed as a monolith. 

Multilingual. The research conducted by the AAPI Victory Alliance think tank should be conducted in a way that allows for the widest possible range of participation and/or inclusion of AAPIs living in the United States. Accordingly, in-native-language research should be conducted to the extent feasible when the community being studied best communicates in their native language. Additionally, research and findings should be communicated in native language and English where feasible.

Anti-racist. We are not taking a color-blind approach; we are actively addressing structures of racism, xenophobia, and white supremacy that have excluded AAPIs from opportunities, and caused violence and premature death in AAPI communities. We will work in concert and alliance with organizations working across and advancing all and specific communities of color with the shared goal of dismantling white supremacy. 

Intersectional. Systems of oppression cut across overlapping and intersecting social identities in different ways. We will strive to conduct intersectional research that explores, embraces, and values these social identities.

Collaborative. We are stronger together. We will collaborate with organizations that are focused on AAPIs, as well as other marginalized groups, to share data and resources. We will also work together with varied stakeholders to focus our efforts in a meaningful way. 

Rigorous. The research conducted by the think tank should be of the highest standards, and contribute meaningfully to the academic and political conversation.

Actionable. We are aimed at intentional dismantling of racism and white supremacy by centering AAPIs in our research. Our research will be aimed at change and action. 

Adaptable. The think tank is focused on research with real-world implications and influence. Accordingly, the focus of the think tank should be adaptable and ready to change depending on the political climate, opportunities, and urgency.