Claiming Our Power as AAPIs
AAPIs make up 11% of New Jerseyans, yet hold just 3% of elected offices at the county level and above. When we vote, we not only exercise a hard-earned right, but help ensure our community is valued and respected. We work to engage Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in our democracy and increase participation in every election.
Historically, Asian American voters receive less outreach than other voters—join us in breaking down this barrier to get AAPI’s out to the polls! Register to vote, know your rights, learn about the candidates, and make a plan to vote. If you’d like to help encourage others to exercise their right to vote, click one of these links or complete the form below and we’ll be in touch.
AAPIs make up 11% of New Jerseyans, yet hold just 3% of elected offices at the county level and above.
The trusted partners listed here offer nonpartisan training opportunities on how to run for elected office. If cost would be a barrier to your participation in any of the programs below, please email advocacy@aapinewjersey.org for guidance on how to apply for financial support.
Ready to Run® is a non-partisan campaign training program to encourage women to run for elective office, position themselves for appointive office, work on a campaign, or get involved in public life in other ways. Hosted by the Center for American Women in Politics at Rutgers University annually in March, its Rising Stars track highlights issues of particular interest to Asian American women who are running for office.
NAL empowers New Americans to run, win, and lead, through training programs designed to emphasize the assets that immigrants bring to the political process—their lived experiences, their community connections, and their commitment to American democracy. Their signature Ready to Lead program is a wonderful entry point for anyone who identifies as an immigrant and is interested in learning about running for office or working on a campaign. Trainings are held throughout the year at different sites nationwide, with hotel/airfare assistance often available.
APAICS’ national and regional leadership academies provide Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander candidates and elected officials with the skills and resources needed to succeed in their campaigns through an interactive leadership training program and guest speakers. They are open to both elected officials seeking higher office and individuals who may be interested in running for elected office in the future.
In 2023, we formally changed our name to AAPI New Jersey to reflect the statewide priorities and activities that this group of committed community members and advocates now supports.
We continue to host events and programs in Montclair and invite you to explore this site to learn more about the diverse resources and opportunities we offer.
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