December 2025 / Issue #005
Written by Cam Mahon, Board President
As 2025 unfolds, we have been honored to walk alongside the AAPI community and our allies in moments of reflection, celebration, and growth. Each gathering this year has reminded us that influence is not only about leadership—it is about the collective strength of voices, stories, and traditions that shape our shared future.
We began the year in solidarity, joining community members in honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Placer County MLK Day March & Celebration on January 20. Dr. King’s vision of justice and unity continues to inspire our work, reminding us that the pursuit of equity is a responsibility we carry together. Just days later, the Asian Youth Leadership Association (AYLA) Leadership Conference on January 25 brought forward the energy of young leaders, whose courage and creativity are paving the way for tomorrow’s change.
February marked a milestone for our organization with our first grant submission on February 3—a step toward expanding resources to support our work. In March, we celebrated wellness and collective spirit at Run Rocklin on March 30, where members and friends came together to move, connect, and inspire. Throughout the year, our AAPI Walking Moms & Friends Group has been a steady heartbeat, gathering monthly to nurture health, friendship, and belonging.
Spring blossomed with cultural and advocacy highlights. The KINTSUKUROI Film Screening on April 17 invited us to reflect on the resilience and healing of Japanese Americans during a dark chapter in our nation’s history. We were proud to join over 100 non-profits and organizations on AANHPI Advocacy Day on April 28, gathering at the California State Capitol to amplify our voices in policy and representation. The Rocklin Heritage Faire on May 3 showcased the richness of local traditions, followed by celebrations of achievement and togetherness at the Sierra College EAS (Empowering Asian Students) Graduation on May 9 and the 1st Annual AAPI Family Picnic on May 10.
Summer carried forward the spirit of unity with the Juneteenth Celebration on June 21, reminding us of the importance of freedom, justice, and solidarity across communities. In the fall, we honored heritage and creativity at the FilipinX Fest at Sierra College on October 7, a vibrant celebration of culture and artistry. We closed the year with vision and purpose at our 2nd Annual Board of Directors Strategic Planning Meeting on November 16, where board leaders came together to celebrate the work we’ve done and to plan for 2026. Each of these events was rooted in advocacy, culture, wellness, or organizational growth. Together, we are building a future where voices are heard, traditions are honored, and leadership is shared.
2025 has already shown us that influence is not about standing alone, it is about walking together toward a brighter horizon.
