Join AAPI New Jersey and leaders from across the state as we urge state legislators in Trenton to fund Asian American communities in the 2027 FY State Budget, pass the New Jersey Voting Empowerment Act (NJVEA), and fully fund legal services for unaccompanied children and people detained in immigration detention.

Every year, Asian American community-based organizations (CBOs) are left out of the New Jersey budget while other states like California and New York invest tens of millions in their respective communities. These are life-saving funds to CBO programs that serve our most vulnerable community members through mental health services, senior citizens programs, support for survivors of domestic violence, and more. New Jersey’s Asian American communities remain under-served because of a lack of funding for culturally competent programs. We are calling on state lawmakers to begin investing in Asian American community based programs this year.

Participants will gain experience in advocating for policies and speaking to legislators in the Trenton state house. There will also be the opportunity to participate in a rally, attend a voting session, and much more to make our voices heard!

Bus transportation from Montclair is available, light breakfast and lunch will be provided. 

Co-sponsored by: AAPI Power Our Vote, ACLU New Jersey, South Asians for American, Emgage Action, OutFront Metuchen, NJ Muslim Voice for Progress, Asian American Alliance in South Jersey, Chinese American Community of Fort Lee, Minkwon Center, New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, Livingston Chinese Association, CAIR New Jersey, Shiv’s Third Eye, New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, League of Women Voters of New Jersey, Manavi Inc., Alliance of South Asian American Labor (ASAAL)

If you are new to advocacy, we will offer a virtual training session the week prior so you know what to expect:

Register here for 5/13 evening training at 6PM

Register here for 5/15 day-time training at 1PM