The Asian and Pacific Islander Leadership Blog
LEAP Calls on Purdue University Chancellor's Dismissal or Resignation
LEAP is angered and deeply hurt by the racist and insensitive comments from Purdue University's Chancellor during their recent commencement ceremonies. LEAP strongly supports Purdue University Northwest students and faculty in their call for his dismissal or resignation. For Purdue University Northwest’s Asian and Asian American students, families, faculty, staff, administrators and the broader Asian American community, his ridicule, and the board of trustee’s tolerance of his apology became yet another unwelcome reminder that despicable and bigoted actions against Asians and Asian Americans are still acceptable, even normal.
LEAP is Deeply Saddened by the Passing of Secretary Norman Y. Mineta
Yesterday, we lost an extraordinary American. LEAP is deeply saddened by the passing of Secretary Norman Y. Mineta, a committed public servant, trailblazer, and role model. His support and influence touched organizations like LEAP and so many others. We’re comforted by knowing his legacy will endure through all the many people whose lives he touched and were encouraged by his leadership. Our sincerest condolences to his family and the people who loved him. He will be greatly missed.
Making an Impact.
After 13 years of developing nonprofit leaders, the LEAP Impact program continues to hold a space where nonprofit professionals can grow in a supportive environment.
The LEAP Impact program wrapped up its final session with the 2021-2022 cohort on March 31st.
LEAP Mourns and Remembers the One-Year Anniversary of the Atlanta Spa Shootings
LEAP mourns the eight victims, including six Asian women, who were killed a year ago today in Atlanta, Georgia when a gunman opened fire in three spas.
We think about the families of the victims who were thrust into the spotlight in the midst of unthinkable grief and commend the bravery of those who have publicly spoken out in an effort to bring about change. A year later, and for many years to come, let us remember those we lost
LEAP Celebrates the Launch of the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI)
LEAP Celebrates the Launch of the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI).
Announcing the 2021-2022 LEAP Impact: An American Express Leadership Academy Cohort!
Meet the newest cohort of changemakers before they embark on their journey of LEAPImpact: An American Express Leadership Academy. We had an overwhelming amount of applicants and could not be more impressed with our 20 person class.
LEAP's Statement on the Anti-Asian Attacks on Suni Lee and Elders
The anti-Asian attack against Olympic gymnast Suni Lee and other recent attacks on our elders in San Diego and New York are stark reminders that racism and xenophobia continue to be everyday occurrences for many members of our community.
LEAP's Statement on the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 Attacks
September 11, 2001 shifted the fabric of American society and how our Muslim, Arab, and South Asian (MASA) communities are treated. Twenty years later, the rise of hate crimes and violence against the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) community during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates the cyclical nature of racism and discrimination.
8 Lives Cut Short - A Message from LEAP President and CEO, Linda Akutagawa
A Message from LEAP President & CEO, Linda Akutagawa: 8 lives cut short. Mourning the Unnecessary Loss of life in Atlanta.
8 lives cut short. Mourning the Unnecessary Loss of life in Atlanta.
Last night eight people were senselessly murdered over the space of a few hours at three different Asian businesses in the greater Atlanta region in another mass shooting perpetrated by a lone gunman. Six of the eight victims were Asian women.
Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to the families of the victims as we join them and Atlanta’s Asian American community in collective grief, sadness and anger for their loss.
Announcing the 2020-2021 LEAP Impact Cohort!
The LEAPImpact program has commenced! Get introduced to the 2020-2021 cohort!
Solidarity and Support for Black Lives
Last week, we joined the Coalition of Asian American Leaders, together with over 250+ Asian and Pacific Islander organizations across the U.S., in their call for unity and solidarity with the family of George Floyd and the Black community as they seek and demand justice. With the events of the last several days, the deep pain of the Black community can no longer be suppressed.
LEAP's New York City Community Reception
RSVP and join your LEAP friends as they visit the “Big Apple”!
Announcing the 2019-2020 LEAP Impact Cohort!
The LEAPImpact program has commenced! Get introduced to the 2019-2020 cohort!
LEAP Holiday Benefit Fundraiser
LEAP is holding a Holiday Benefit in support of the LEAPEmerge Program. Learn how you can support!