Asian Avenue Magazine - February 2023

Allyship and Unity: How Asian Americans Can Show Up For Black Communities

Celebrate Black History Month by attending community events and participating in the calls to action (page 14) recommended by local Asian Americans. Our liberation is bound together.

Happy Black History Month! This February, I feel a heaviness in my heart as I am the type of person that watches the news everyday. (Why do I torture myself in this way?) The recent incident of police brutality towards Tyre Nichols is a painful reminder that racial injustice continues to permeate in all of the American systems we live in. As calls for change feel unheard, Black communities are constantly forced to relive the trauma of police violence. It is heartbreaking, yet we must not break. We must keep being vocal and demanding change.

This month, we share the perspectives of three Asian Americans, who are allies with Black community members, colleagues, organizations, etc. Tran Nguyen-Wills, Sean Choi, and Neal Walia provide their personal perspectives as to why allyship and solidarity with Black communities is important and necessary. They also give advice on how to get started -- showing up for Black communities -- by building trust, supporting Black-owned businesses, diversifying your friend circles, speaking up about injustices, holding friends and family accountable when making discriminatory remarks, going to rallies and protests, etc. American history shows that Black and Asian solidarity movements have existed for decades. In recent years, with the rise in hate crimes and violence targeting Asian Americans, Black communities have actively shown their support --- even volunteering for neighborhood safety patrols.

Annie Guo VanDan, President Asian Avenue magazine Connect with us!

Publisher & Founder

CHRISTINA YUTAI GUO

President

ANNIE GUO VANDAN

Editorial Director

MARY JENEVERRE SCHULTZ

Graphic Designer/Videographer

LIJIN ZHAO

Web Designer JASON ZHANG

Editor DAMIAN SIU

Staff Writer

PATRICIA KAOWTHUMRONG

on the cover

Black and Asian communities have a history of racial solidarity. This February, celebrate Black History Month and learn about ways to show up as an ally from local Asian Americans.

Asian Avenue magazine (ISSN 1932-1449) reserves all copyrights to this issue. No parts of this edition can be reproduced in any manner without written permission. The views expressed in articles are the authors’ and not necessarily those of Asian Avenue magazine.

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Asian Avenue magazine is in association with the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.

FEBRUARY 2023

7 GET OUT THE VOTE: Will Chan runs for Denver City Council At-Large

8 COMMUNITY: Local Asian community prepare for vigil and healing circles

10

SPOTLIGHT: Owner of Cakeheads

Bakery Cherrie Isroff infuses Filipino flavors and inspiration into her desserts

12 COVER STORY: Black History Month: How Asian Americans Can (and Should) Show Up for Black Communities

15 FEATURE: Books about love in celebration of Valentine’s Day

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16

18

FEATURE: Long distance relationships take work to make them work

RESTAURANT PEEKS: CoArk

Collective Food Hall celebrates grand opening with eight vendors

19 FOOD: Denver gets ready for Asian Restaurant Week, Feb. 22-26

20 THEATRE REVIEW: ‘Say My Name’ presents a relatable immigrant story

21 ON SCENE: Colorado legislature recognizes Lunar New Year holiday

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upcoming events

‘Aubergine’ Play

Feb. 2 to 19 | Multiple Showtimes Ent Center for the Arts

5225 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs

Tickets: $10 to $36 Use code AUBCOMMUNITY for buy one, get one 50% off tickets entcenterforthearts.org

In this play written by Julia Cho, Chef Ray cares for his dying father but struggles to connect with the man who never understood his life’s calling in the kitchen. Performed in English and Korean, and supertitled in both languages, Aubergine offers an intimate look at the ways that heritage, food, and family can transcend language to share love.

Day of Remembrance 2023

Japanese American Healthcare Disparities

Sunday, Feb. 19 | 1pm to 4pm History Colorado Center

1200 N Broadway, Denver Free, in-person event (masks recommended) milehighjacl.org

The Mile High Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), the oldest Asian American national civil rights organization, sponsors an annual Day of Remembrance event so we don’t forget the injustice of World War II incarceration. Join us for keynote speaker David Monkawa, an activist and journalist who is a leader in the Save Our Seniors, who will speak about the history of Japanese American healthcare in the United States and how it relates to the fight for Keiro, a senior care facility in Los Angeles, which provided culturally competent care to its largely Japanese American senior residents.

KODO One Earth Tour 2023: TSUZUMI

Feb. 18 at 7:30pm | Feb. 19 at 2pm

Newman Center for the Performing Arts

2344 East Iliff Avenue, Denver

Tickets: $36 to $92 newmancenterpresents.com

Feel the reverberations of heaven and earth in harmony with this all-new performance from internationally renowned taiko performing arts ensemble, KODO. Entitled “Tsuzumi,” this explosive performance, created to commemorate the ensemble’s 40th anniversary, will electrify, dazzle and uplift audiences of all ages with the he visceral sound of KODO’s taiko drumming.

Mile High Asian Food Week

Feb. 22-26

Participating restaurants, food trucks, and pop-ups across the Denver metro area milehighafw.com

The inaugural Mile High Asian Food Week will occur on February 2226, 2023. During this week, foodies can experience different AAPI cuisines from participating businesses and receive insider perks such as special discounts, secret menu items, specialty menus, and more. Presented by Asian Avenue Magazine and created by Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) food and beverage industry members, Mile High Asian Food Week celebrates culture, community, and Colorado’s growing AAPI food scene.

Her Brush: New Approaches to Gender and Agency in Japanese Art Symposium

Saturday, Feb. 25 | 9am to 4pm Denver Art Museum

100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway, Denver Free, but advanced registration required In-person and virtually via Zoom denverartmuseum.org

This international symposium is in conjunction with the exhibition, Her Brush: Japanese Women Artists from the Fong-Johnstone Collection. Scholars and specialists from various disciplines will add to the discourse on approaches and methodologies in the study, connoisseurship, and exhibition of Japanese art through the lens of gender, agency, and artistic voice. The aim is to advance the discourse on approaches and methodologies by these artists.

CO Dragon Boat Film Festival

March 9-12

Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E Colfax Ave, Denver, Tickets and festival passes: denverfilm.org

Check out the lineup: cdfilm.org

The four-day all Asian/Asian American Film Festival is themed “Celebrating Our Stories,” to honor individuals, organizations and films that highlight the rich cultures and experiences of AAPI communities. The festival will also feature community conversations and live Q&As with filmmakers.

Experience you can trust to deliver:

• Over 20 years advocating for working families in government, labor, and education

• As a City and County of Denver public servant,

• Will managed the distribution of $154M of federal stimulus dollars to help residents, businesses, and neighborhoods

• Developed programs that lifted hard-working communities, supported residents, business owners, and welcomed first-generation Americans to Denver

Will’s plans to fill Denver’s GAPS, and to make Denver Greener, more Affordable, more Prosperous, and Safer:

• Green: address transit, climate, and pathways to green jobs

• Affordable: work to update housing options and policies to support housing affordability, support working families by improving access to childcare among other services, and protection for contract workers

• Prosperous: overhaul policies for big and small business who call Denver home, streamline permitting and licensing processes, and incentives for businesses providing social good

• Safer: expand alternative interventions to policing, invest in civic engagement opportunities for youth interventions for preventing crime, and investing in programs proven to reduce recidivism

Will Chan runs to be the first Asian American elected to Denver City Council At-Large

Denver residents will have the opportunity to vote for Will Chan in the 2023 Municipal General Election. Ballots begin mailing on March 13 and the last day to vote is April 4, 2023.

MEET WILL CHAN | willchanfordenver.com

When my parents came to the U.S. over 40 years ago, they arrived in poverty and eventually built a rewarding life through hard work and the connection to community that Denver is famous for. It is through this sense of community and growing up as a first-generation American that I understand family is more than blood – it is the people who root for and support us, and who we care for and support in return.

After graduating from George Washington High School and Colgate University for undergrad, one of my first jobs was organizing for hotel workers in Puerto Rico. I saw the power in bargaining for a better, more equitable working environment and for communities to come together and fight for their needs.

When my father passed, I returned to Denver and worked at the Denver Public Library leading the New Americans Project directly alongside the City and County of Denver to develop programs that support the economic mobility of our most vulnerable residents in the most marginalized neighborhoods. This work has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career.

In Denver, we need leaders who will meet our residents where they are: we need to get City Council out of the City and County Building and into our neighborhoods. I know how it feels to be invisible and unheard. I have lived a life surrounded by families struggling to put food on the table and keep a roof above their heads. I know the frustration of not being able to access public systems designed to support them.

But I also know that when we come together, we can drive big change and build a city that works for everyone today, while being sustainable for the world tomorrow. I want to put my lived experiences, my skills, and my love for this city to work for my fellow Denverites. As your next Denver City Council Member At Large, I commit to continue to be your public servant.

In Colorado - honoring the lives lost and holding space for mourning

Asian American communities are grappling with the back-to-back mass shootings in California at the start of the Lunar New Year—both of which included Asian American victims and perpetrators.

During a time of celebration, tragedy and mourning have shaken Asian Americans, who are experiencing resurfaced feelings of anxiety, fear, and grief over their safety. Since the start of the pandemic, Asian American communities across the nation have experienced a sharp increase in hate incidents and violence.

On January 23, local Asian American community leaders gathered to discuss how best to provide support and resources in Colorado. The immediate need was to acknowledge the community’s shared trauma and pain—before jumping into

calls for action.

On the eve of Lunar New Year (January 21), when families and friends across the world were celebrating this special holiday, 11 people were killed in a mass shooting at Monterey Park, considered the suburban Chinatown of Los Angeles. Two days later, another shooting at Half Moon Bay, left seven more dead.

On Wednesday, Feb. 8, a community vigil will be held at Denver Botanic Gardens to honor the victims of the Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay tragedies. The event is meant to provide space for mourning and grieving with performances by ballroom dancers in memory of the victims at Star Ballroom Dance Studio in Monterey Park.

Healing circles will also be held (both virtual and in-person) for AAPI-identifying community members. Organized by Change Matrix, National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association, and Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network, these sessions provide a safe space for reflection, empathy, and support.

As the community moves forward, next steps will be to amplify the local work and progress that has been made to stop anti-Asian hate.

In Colorado, this looks like legislation that was recently passed (Bias-motivated Crimes Bill) such that bias only needs to be part of the offender’s motivation in committing the crime (rather than the sole reason).

A statewide coalition group was created last year to mobilize the Asian community quickly for advocacy and urgent issues. Asian American curriculum has also been established at the high school and university levels. In April 2023, a town hall will be held to provide updates to the community. Visit cacendenver.org for more information.

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

“Creating cakes is my passion, more than just creating desserts. Cakes are very personal, and each one tells a story of its own.” said Isroff, owner of Cakeheads.

“It’s quite rewarding to hear our clients gasp with happiness or shed tears of joy because my team and I are able to execute their vision precisely through cake.”

Wholesale | Isroff opened the bakery five years ago alongside her husband Bradley Isroff. But before their retail operations began, the creative duo was establishing a name for their culinary experience through wholesale.

The husband-and-wife team began their wholesale operation in 2007 with clients such as Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Sprouts, and Vitamin Cottage.

Based in Inverness (separate from

their retail location), the 12,000-squarefoot baking facility is set up with multiple ovens, and employs more than 20 work ers including three main cake decorators.

Here, eighty percent of the baking goes to their dog biscuit company called Pawsitively Gourmet (pawsitively gourmet.com), while 20 percent is directed for Cakeheads.

Retail | “Opening the retail segment was a challenge I’ve always wanted,” Isroff said. “Luckily for us, having the retail store has helped the wholesale branding

Owner of Cakeheads

Bakery Cherrie Isroff delivers sweet memories for life’s sweetest moments

Filipino American Cherrie Isroff created a bakery that would feed her talent, expand her creativity and open a world of sweets in sight as well as taste.

Cakeheads Bakery, in Centennial, offers unique cake customization that creates a “wow’ effect for birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones, especially during this month of celebrating love and valentines.

tremendously. Brand recognition is stronger with both segments.”

In addition to their signature cakes, Cakeheads offers cupcakes, cannolis, cookies, whoopie pies, and even cakes by the slice!

On the weekends, there is heavy foot traffic with a line out of the door for picking up cakes, ordering customization, and with customers looking to grab a coffee with their pastries.

Price points range from $3 pastries to $1,000 custom cakes. Isroff’s signature cakes include flavors of vanilla, raspberry, and passion fruit. And the second most popular dessert is chocolate.

Cherrie Isroff, owner of Cakeheads, was awarded Best Wedding Cake at the Colorado Chocolate Festivals.

Photos by T. Parmelee Photography

Peak time includes holidays and summer months, especially during wedding season. The bakery has set up an online ordering system and recommends ordering ahead of time, from four days to one week in advance.

Isroff shared that her strangest customization order was for male and female genitalia-themed cakes and cupcakes. It’s probably safe to assume they were for a bachelor/bachelorette party.

Philippines Connection | Isroff left the Philippines to attend college in the United States. Her family has lived in Colorado for 22 years.

She is constantly adding Filipino flavors including ube and macapuno to her pastries. Already, she sells butter mamon, ube mamon, butter ensaymadas, and cheese ensaymadas to Coffee Sarap, a coffee cart that specializes in Filipino beverages. Coffee Sarap, based in Castle Rock, also sells Isroff’s shortbread dog treats to customers with fur babies.

“Cherrie is wonderful and so easy to work with. It’s great to work with someone so reliable and it makes us even more happy to be supporting another Filipino-owned business,” said co-owner Hannah Cambronero of Coffee Sarap.

“We had been searching for the right bakery to partner with and we were intentional to highlight an Asian-owned business. When we met Cherrie, it was al-

most fate because she already knew how to make specialty pastries, even Filipino ones that are native to our country.”

Culinary Experience | Isroff obtained a food marketing degree from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, where she also met her husband, Bradley.

During the pandemic, Isroff picked up one of Robertson’s bread books to hone her skills on making sourdough.

“Just from his thorough instructions and recipes, I learned how to make sourdough,” she said. “I’ve also tried his baked goods in his original San Francisco location and after that experience, I was a believer.”

Would we ever see Isroff on the Food Network or competing in a bake-off contest?

She admits to receiving numerous invitations and having experienced the interviewing process. “It’s a competitive world out there with lots of highly talented people,” she said. “Maybe one of these days, with the right competition theme, I’ll be able to proceed.”

Her Advice | Isroff didn’t just start her culinary career as a baker. It took her years and many different jobs in the culinary world to figure out what feeds her soul. She offers advice to those who are passionate about cakes and desserts.

Her experience includes working as a line cook at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, a chef in savory kitchens, and a cake decorator for an elegant bake shop in Denver.

Like many baking veterans, Isroff follows legendary pastry chef Ron Ben-Israel for both wedding and celebration cakes and Chad Robertson for breads.

“To those who wish to become a pastry chef, know that this is not an easy feat,” she said. “It’s demanding of your personal and family time. It’s hard on the body and mentally taxing, but if you love the industry, put in your best every time and you will reap the rewards.”

Learn more about Cakeheads Bakery at cakeheadsbakery.com. and follow them at @cakeheads_bakery.

Cakeheads was voted one of the Top 5 Wedding Cake Bakeries.

Cherrie Isroff (middle) and her team at Cakeheads Bakery, which opened five years ago in Centennial.

Bradley and Cherrie Isroff

BLACK HISTORY MONTH:

How Asian Americans Can (and Should) Show Up for Black Communities

In celebration of Black History Month, local Asian American community leaders share the importance of allyship with Black communities. The recent death of Tyre Nichols at the hands of Memphis police renews the call for police reform and the importance of all communities to speak out against injustice.

Black and Asian communities have a long history of organizing together. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Asian Americans working as immigrant laborers in the US were often subjected to racial violence. That experience of discrimination created solidarity with the Black community. In recent years, the rise in anti-Asian hate sparked Black communities across the nation to show their support — participating in “Black & Asian Solidarity” rallies.

TRAN NGUYEN-WILLS

Community Leader & Small Business Owner

First and foremost the rights and privileges Asian Americans have today are a direct result of the Immigration and Naturalization Act of 1965 which was enacted during the Civil Rights Movement. In fighting for their own rights, Black activists led the movement and opened up opportunities not just for themselves, but for us as well.

Black men and women were beaten, jailed, and killed fighting for us. This Federal law made it possible for many Vietnamese immigrants like my parents to rebuild their lives here in America after the Vietnam War. It is important that this history continues to be shared, honored and celebrated. This is the time for all of us to start the difficult conversations with our friends, family and the AAPI community, to confront complacency, systematic racism, micro-aggression, and anti-blackness.

I always remind myself and others in

During the Civil Rights Movement, activists Grace Lee Boggs and Yuri Kochiyama aligned their efforts with African American activists. An active member of the Black Power Movement of the 1960s, with allies like Malcolm X, Boggs and her husband helped revitalize the young people of Detroit.

Kochiyama’s activism branched out from reparations for Japanese internees, to include civil rights for African Americans, prison reform and rights for political prisoners, and the fight for Puerto Rican independence.

the AAPI community that we are not exempt from this work as a marginalized group. My goal is to spark conversations that have been ignored for far too long within our AAPI community.

and businesses have no say in politics or in issues that hurt our communities and cause suffering to human lives.

Speak out against racism and injustice in your homes and communities. Continue to amplify Black voices and honor the sacrifices that our Black brothers and sisters have made so that we could be here today.

How I have shown up for the Black community was to use both my small business and personal platforms to speak out against racism and injustice. I will not tolerate people who say brands

After the Atlanta spa shootings, Colorado State Representative Leslie Herod was the only state or city representative who reached out to me as a Denver small business owner to not only amplify our voices but I was able to share our fears, anger, sadness as a community and how the pandemic exacerbated AAPI Hate all over the country.

I hold that act of being seen for once during the pandemic and the very genuine kindness by Leslie close to my heart till this day.

“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.”

- Desmond Tutu

Tran Wills (left) is currently the AAPI Outreach Director for Leslie Herod for Denver Mayor.

SEAN CHOI Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, FirstBank DJ and Promoter

All of our unique experiences and identities matter to the larger story of America. It is impossible to exist in isolation in America and in the world. We all benefit from the amazing things that all cultures have contributed to society, whether in science, music, technology, art, food, etc. The world is more prosperous with diversity.

However, if we want a diverse, just, inclusive, and fair world, we must work together, be allies, and engage in solidarity efforts. Racism has placed all ethnic peoples in similar positions of oppression, poverty, and marginalization.

There are underlying themes to the struggle of marginalized people, and great things can be achieved when we all work together to end hate and show up for each other.

As the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director, I am passionate about implementing inclusive strategies for em-

ployees, customers, and communities. I currently help oversee FirstBank’s Black Employee Resource Group and serve on our Black African American Business Development Group.

Through FirstBank, we introduced the PATH Grant program that strives to build generational wealth and remove barriers to homeownership for Black and African American families, who represent the least likely ethnic/racial group to own a home. Thanks to the down payment assistance program, 150 families were able to become homeowners.

In my personal life, I am a DJ and promoter. For over 20 years, I’ve created hundreds of events that provide opportunities for local black musicians, artists, and vocalists. In partnership with The ReMINDers, a Colorado musical duo, I’ve performed for black communities and in festivals across the country from Oakland to New York City.

NEAL WALIA Deputy Director, Asian Pacific Development Center

We need to internalize that the rights, freedoms and prosperity we experience as “Asians” are directly connected to the movements, struggles and sacrifices of black and indigenous people. It is because these communities have resisted, revolted, and died fighting for a world absent of oppression and persecution that we are able to live in this country and enjoy the freedoms we love so much.

We must also recognize that we have failed to stand and fight alongside our black, brown and indigenous communities who have long been calling for our solidarity and participation in the movements they have built.

How can we ask these communities to recognize our struggles when we have ignored theirs? How can we demand unity and allyship when we’ve refused to lend our power to those who have been fighting for us for centuries?

FirstBank’s Black Employee Resource Group visit the MCA Denver art exhibit “Dirty South.”

Choi (back) performs with local musicians The ReMINDers along with nationally renowned MCs Mos Def (left) and Talib Kweli (right).

Walia is a member of the Urban League Young Professionals of Metro Denver.

Walia marches in Denver’s MLK Marade.

CALL TO ACTION FOR ASIAN AMERICANS

- TRAN NGUYEN-WILLS

Fight for more Black and AAPI History education and books in schools. Elect more Black and Asian community leaders for political office. Seek out and request meetings with your City and State representatives to prioritize more resources for BIPOC and marginalized communities.

Listen to Black activists and community leaders. Diversify your social feed and what you read online. Learn from all perspectives so you don’t get stuck in an echo chamber -- when more people are aware of what’s happening in our country is the only way we can disrupt the oppressive systems.

Being an ally is messy, uncomfortable, overwhelming, and will trigger big complicated feelings. However, we all need to do better for our Black community. We owe our time, our hearts, our ears, and our humility.

Keep educating yourself. Keep others and yourself accountable. Keep donating. Keep growing. Keep supporting Black owned-businesses. Keep disrupting. Keep sharing Black stories. Keep protesting. Keep using your voice. Keep your foot on the gas.

Allyship is built with trust, which doesn’t happen overnight. To create this trust, we have to educate ourselves, and we have to show up. We must take the time to understand why the Black American experience is unique and different from the Asian American experience. Then we can recognize the forces that keep us divided and work to eliminate those divisions.

LOCAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS

Passages: Bound and Free Exhibit

WHEN: Through Feb. 25

WHERE: Blair Caldwell African American Research Library

The free exhibit portrays artist, Verline “Mijiza” Geaither’s personal interpretation of the experiences of many black men, women, and children who live and have lived in the US. As you look at and experience this artwork, consider what it might invoke inside of you about your personal journey.

The time has come for us to step forward with unprecedented conviction. It is not enough to only focus on our own people. It is not enough to only speak our own truths. We must act. We must challenge our parents to learn and grow. We must hold our siblings and friends accountable for their complacency. We must invest our time, money, and power into communities, organizations, and leaders who look and feel different than us, in particular, black and indigenous people. We must protest. We must resist. We must fight.

Colorado

Black Arts Festival –Understudy Artist Showcase

WHEN: Feb. 4 to 28, 6:30pm - 9pm

WHERE: Colorado Convention Center This free, curated show highlights the work of six artists. The exhibit will be a “fishbowl-style” display, allowing visitors to view the works through the Colorado Convention Center windows from the sidewalk.

The History of African American Music

WHEN: Feb. 11, 12, 18 and 26

WHERE: Multiple locations

A musical performance accompanied by a narrated history of blues, jazz, gospel and soul music between 1920 and 1970.

Same Cloth

WHEN: Feb. 25, 6pm and 9pm

WHERE: Dazzle @ Baur’s Same Cloth is a Denver-based project led by prolific keyboardist Solomon J. Chapman Sr. and inventive vocalist JoFoKe. Performing original music and creative cover arrangements, Same Cloth’s musical vision is intensified and rounded out by Will Gaines on bass, Callum Bair and James Tré on guitar and Matt Campbell on drums. As a unit, Same Cloth combines the diverse traditions of Black American Music to create an energetically eclectic and emotionally elevating live music experience.

- SEAN CHOI

- NEAL WALIA

Walia participates in a protest to protect reproductive rights at the State Capitol.

Nothing Says “Be My Valentine” Better Than a Book About Love

Instead of sending a Valentine’s card this year, give a romance novel or a first love book. Here are some book suggestions by Asian American authors (in alphabetical order by author’s last name):

When you Wish Upon a

by Gloria Chao

For readers of Jenny Han and Maurene Goo, this book is a sweet, wholesome romance about two teens who devote themselves to granting other people’s wishes but are too afraid to let themselves have their own heart’s desires – each other. This rich exploration of Chinese American culture set in the vibrant Chinatown community of Chicago is a deeply resonant story of love, family, and culture that anyone can relate to.

How We Say I Love You

by Nicole Chen

In this book (Ages 3-7), it’s a heartwarming picture book about an Asian American girl sharing how her family expresses their love for one another through actions rather than words. So many families express their love in things

they do for one another every day. It is a book that wraps you in a huge and invites your family to share their own special ways of showing love.

Will We Always Hold Hands?

by Christopher Cheng

The author asks a series of questions and answers between best friends Bear and Rat. The book (Ages 4–8) reassures readers of the everlasting bonds of friendship and love. Drawing from his own experience with love and loss, the author crafted this story to help readers all around the world to celebrate love and cope with changes in life. The unbreakable bond between Bear and Rat makes this picture book the perfect Valentine’s gift --- and is especially helpful for children who are going through periods of grief.

The Bride Test

by Helen Hoang

contentment when ledgers balance down to the penny, but not big, important emotions --- like grief. And love. He thinks he’s defective. His family knows better --- that his autism means he just processes emotions differently. When he steadfastly avoids relationships, his mother takes matters into her own hands and returns to Vietnam to find him the perfect bride.

run into each other at their grandparents’ engagement party.

Khai Diep has no feelings. Well, he feels irritation when people move his things or

The rivals-to-lovers romantic comedy is full of the heart and humor readers love about the genre, while delivering bold messages of body acceptance in the fitness community and the importance of uplifting marginalized voices.

Curvy fitness influencer

Crystal Chen built her career shattering gym stereotypes and mostly ignoring the trolls. After her recent breakup, she has little stamina left for men, instead finding solace in the gym – her place of power and positivity.

Enter firefighter Scott Ritchie, the smug new gym patron who routinely steals her favorite squat rack. Sparks fly as these ultra-competitive foes battle for gym domination. But after a series of escalating jabs, the last thing they expect is to

It’s a classic childhood best friends-to-lovers tale with a K-drama twist, telling the story of one unforgettable summer shared by two Korean American teenagers (one of whom just happens to be Seoul’s newest K-drama superstar.

Seventeen-year-old Julie has her future all planned out --- move out of her small town with her boyfriend, Sam, attend college in the city, spend a summer in Japan. But then Sam dies. And everything changes. Desperate to hear his voice one more time, Julie calls Sam’s cell phone to listen to his voicemail. And Sam picks up the phone.

Lantern

Set on You by Amy Lea

Seoulmates by Susan Lee

You’ve Reached Sam by Dustin Thao

Compiled by Mary Jeneverre Schultz

Do you remember the scene from the popular TV series, Big Bang Theory when Leonard and Priya attempt to engage in a long distance relationship using video streaming? Screens were frozen or locked up and Leonard showed great frustration by not finishing his conversation with Priya, who had moved back to India.

With today’s technology, long distance relationships are becoming more common and dare we say, ‘easier’? If you’ve been in one before, then you know that frozen screens, dropped calls, and converting time zones are all a part of the romance!

This month, in celebration of Valentine’s Day, Asian Avenue talked to couples from Colorado, who made (or are making) long distance work for them.

Long Distance... Twice!

Ken and Michael met at the old Hamburger Mary’s patio on Clarkson and 17th Streets in downtown Denver. With liquid courage, Michael beckoned Ken over by calling for his attention. Together for more than ten years, the couple previously engaged in long distance for ten months during their relationship, and has recently begun long distance again, which will likely be for another year or so, as Michael moved to Washington, D.C. for work.

“Communication is the key,” said Ken Arellano, adding that the time difference during the weekdays is difficult. “Michael is on Eastern Standard Time, while I am on Mountain Standard Time, so those two hours make a big difference as Michael goes to work and bed early.”

They’ve committed to no more than six weeks going by without seeing each other in person, so plane trips are a big part of their lives.

“Plan on vacations together just like you would in person,” Ken said. “And plan on a time to speak every day/night, if possible, as that helps you set up a routine.”

LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIPS work!

Denver to Florida

Mel and Erin first connected in San Francisco. Texting, phone calls, and Zoom dates, have made it easier for the couple to communicate in numerous ways during the day. Before meeting in person, they engaged in a Zoom date to get to know each other.

“Since we had Zoom dates each week prior to meeting, it was almost as if I had already known/met him for quite a while,” said Erin Mercer. “Being in a long-distance relationship isn’t that challenging.”

Erin admits this is her second long distance relationship and felt confident navigating through the complications with previous knowledge.

The couple met in February of last year. Erin moved to Denver in March. Then, Mel transferred to Florida for work. Working remotely, Erin has traveled to Florida each month since Mel’s job transfer with plans to move to Florida soon.

“Being on the same page, allowing yourself to be vulnerable, and keeping each other safe (emotionally, physically, and mentally) is what I’ve learned to make my current relationship work,” said Erin.

Military Life

For those enlisted in the military—whether it is the US Navy, the Army, the Marines, US Air Force, or the Coast Guard—know that it’s a way of life.

Filipino-American Kay Guardiano met her husband, John when they were just 19 years old back in 2005. Kay was finishing college while John enlisted in the US Air Force. During their 20s, John was stationed in Las Vegas, an easy four-hour drive or 30-minute plane trip.

“Vegas is the ultimate destination for partying,” said Kay with some humor.

Kay confessed long distance is not for everyone. “It can work if you and your person are aligned on goals. We had a common goal of living our own lives and fulfilling personal goals,” she said. “We have built an immense amount of resiliency and our own identities.”

Together for 17 years, the married couple has a six-year-old daughter and three-year-old son. Since 2012, they celebrate their wedding anniversary on August 4.

Compiled by Mary Jeneverre Schultz

Our Editorial Director’s Big Move

Asian Avenue Editorial Director Mary Jeneverre Schultz used the telephone to stay in touch with her then-boyfriend and current spouse, when he left California after his college gradu ation and settled in Colorado, more than 25 years ago. Hesitant to leave her California home, she attempted a long-distance relation ship before virtual meetings were the norm.

After three months of job hunting in Colorado, she found a business reporting role in a town, one hour away from Aurora, still engag ing in long distance for about 15 months.

“It felt easier when I was living in California,” said Mary, adding that learning how to drive in inclement weather was stressful.

Thinking back, Mary knew it was the best thing that happened in her life – to settle in Colorado with the love of her life.

International Romance

For five months, Denver resident Tiffany and her partner Michiel have engaged in a trans-Atlantic romance. The couple met at a wedding in Pittsburgh, where she was a bridesmaid and he was a groomsman.

After four months of texting, calling and virtual dates, Tiffany traveled to the Netherlands. “We became official when he asked me at the airport,” she reminisced.

She admits to the hardship of “not being in each other’s lives physically and missing out on moments in life.” The constant communications help them to have something to look forward to, but the time difference is arduous.

“When I wake up, his day is half over,” she said.

Her advice to anyone involved in an international relationship is to make future plans to close the distance.

Our Publisher’s Taiwan Days

Asian Avenue Publisher Christina Yutai Guo and her husband C.G. were in a long distance relationship while studying at different universities in Taiwan, followed by her husband’s two-year military service.

C.G. said, “Taiwan is a small island, where the longest dis tance from the north end to the south end is about 250 miles. In modern days, this would just be a four-hour drive. But in our time, we did not own cars as students and there were no fast-speed highways.”

The couple mainly communicated by sending each other letters.

“I would typically write her two letters per week, and she’d write one back to me. After four years, we piled up hundreds letters. I actually quite enjoyed this old way of communicating, since I like to write,” he said.

When the two wanted to meet or go on a date, C.G. would take an overnight bus on Friday night and arrive in the city where she lived on Saturday morning. They would spend the day together, then he would get back on the bus in the evening for the overnight ride back to his university.

“Distance creates a kind of beauty for all relationships,” CG said. “Because of the distance, you hug each other tighter. Because of the distance, you cherish every moment you are together.”

Today, Christina and C.G. have been married for 39 years and have four grandchildren.

Their first trip to New York in 1997

Honeymoon in Puerto Rico in 2000

You may have heard—Colorado is getting a new Asian food hall! Located in Centennial, CoArk Collective made its big debut last month and has been the talk of the town!

The vision of CoArk Collective is a gathering place to bring community members together. Through the collaboration of entrepreneurs and investors, the group purchased a previous Golden Corral Buffet and refurbished it into a contemporary food hall.

“Our goal is to offer Korean food with a modern twist that non-Koreans can also enjoy,” said Sean Choi, marketing manager of CoArk and owner of 3456 Tea, a Korean drink and dessert shop.

$15. The current vendors include:

• 3456 offers Korean traditional desserts such as yuzu tea, grain latte, persimmon roll, sausage ricecake and bean bun;

• Bibim House offers the well-known Korean rice dish bibimbap;

• Croffle Haven offers the Korean ‘Croffle’, which is a combination of a croissant and waffle;

• KOCO Street Food offers Korean-style fried chicken, bowls with chicken and rice as well as Korean ramens;

• Mad Toast offers traditional-style Korean street toasts;

• Momo Bing offers milk tea, black and green tea and their specialty shaved ice ‘Noodle Bing Su’;

• Poke Island offers poke bowls with fresh seafood and unlimited toppings;

• Tok Buckii offers Korean soul food tokbuckii and kimbop; and

orders appear on the oversized television screens that indiacte when they are ready for pick up at each vendor counter. In the future, CoArk plans to produce introductory videos on their ordering process and types of foods.

Choi noted that the tip levels are set at 3, 5, and 8 percent (with the option to tip more), lower than other restaurants, in order to make the food hall accessible.

Local artist Hannah Lim also displays her ceramic art at CoArk and provides classes to the public. Follow @artatcoark to learn more about the immersive art space.

CoArk Collective is comprised of 95 percent Korean eateries with one Hawaiian-themed vendor, Poke Island, that is also Korean-owned.

The food hall boasts a huge selection of more than 160 menu items with price points ranging from $4.50 to

• The Up Bob offers Korean-style meat bowls and meat sandwiches. At CoArk, diners can order online, before they arrive, or at the front kiosk upon entering. After selecting their food and paying,

Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, CoArk Collective sits at the corner of Arapahoe Road and Parker Road, in a part of town that is growing in its Asian American population, while still limited in Asian cuisine options. This vibrant intersection of Centennial offers restaurants, retail, and entertainment. After an initial soft launch period, the food hall held its grand opening on Jan. 20, 2023.

For more information about the food hall, visit CoArkCollective.com or follow @CoArk_Collective.

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

15775 E. Arapahoe Rd Centennial, CO 80016

Mile High Asian Food Week Celebrates Colorado’s Growing AAPI Food Scene

February 22-26, 2023 | milehighasianfoodweek.com

For Asian American communities across the nation, the 2023 new year started with tragedies intertwined with celebrations. The Lunar New Year, which began on January 22, ushered in a wave of mourning after the mass shootings in California.

In Colorado, community leaders moved quickly to provide healing spaces and honor the lives of the victims. Through the pain and grief, the community remembers that there is still so much to celebrate, especially when it comes to sharing cultural foods, values, and traditions.

Growing up in Boston, Joanne Liu saw first hand how hard her parents worked at their family restaurant. The long hours and exhaustive list of responsibilities not only put a roof over their heads, the labor of love was a reflection of their Chinese heritage–one that they immensely enjoyed sharing with customers.

Now Liu, who is the co-founder and CEO of Asian Girls Ignite, along with other Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) food and community members, are launching Mile High Asian Food Week on February 22-26, 2023.

This multi-day celebration takes place at several participating locations across the Denver Metro Area.

“In many Asian cultures, food is our love language. It symbolizes family, and it is our way of expressing care and protection,” says Liu. “We have so many AAPI food and beverage chefs and business owners here in Colorado. Mile High Asian Food Week is our chance to recognize and celebrate this growing culture.”

During Mile High Asian Food Week, diners can experience different AAPI cuisines from participating businesses, receive insider perks such as special discounts and secret menu items, try specialty menus, and more.

Whether foodies want to learn about and try new cuisines, experience a new restaurant, or want to support their favorite local business, there is something for everyone during Mile High Asian Food Week.

“Colorado has a very vibrant and active AAPI community. Although we only make up around 5% of the state’s population, we do exist, and Mile High Asian Food Week is just one way to showcase who we are and what we contribute to this state,” says Liu.

The excitement is palpable; community members are already chewing over where they plan to eat! To see the full list of vendors and their Mile High AFW promotions and menus, register as a participating vendor, or learn more about Mile High Asian Food Week visit milehighafw.com.

About Mile High Asian Food Week

Presented by Asian Avenue Magazine and created by AAPI food and beverage industry and community members, Mile High Asian Food Week is a celebration of culture, community, and Colorado’s growing AAPI food scene. Asian Avenue Magazine, Asian Chamber of Commerce, and Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network Colorado had previously organized a Asian Restaurant Month in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month in 2009 and 2010.

META ASIAN KITCHEN

YUAN WONTON MILK ROLL CREAMERY

URBAN VILLAGE GRILL

Insight Colab Theatre presents an immigration story in the musical ‘Say My Name’

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

It’s time to step up and be vocal. And to no longer be invisible. Let’s share and honor the history of our ancestors, who have paved the way in American society. These themes were highlighted throughout the musical, Say My Name, produced by Insight Colab Theatre at the People’s Building in Aurora. Performed during the third weekend of January, the play had been postponed twice last year due to the pandemic.

The musical shares the narrative of Korean immigrant Seung-Min, who is studying for her naturalization test for the second time to become a US citizen, but she is haunted by ghosts, wanting the same dreams and goals.

The Cast

Talented female actresses took the stage to tell the stories of students alongside these haunted ghosts, who are urging for recognition in history.

Relevant to today’s current issues, the plays pivotal moment exudes feelings of anxiousness and stress through its storytelling. For most immigrants, studying for the citizenship test can be nerve-wrack-

ing. The audience could feel the immense worry expressed by Seung-Min’s character. Each character exhibited unforgettable moments, making them stand out in both their singing and acting. Their voices carried in the theater space, such that they didn’t appear to need microphones at all.

Huge applause to each gifted and talented actress in their individual performances --- Cecilia Min-Kyung Kim, Marielle Beazley, Jordan Lee, Samantha Saunders, and Natalie Connelly.

One male actor, Sean Guderian, supported the production in multiple roles: teacher, husband, faceless person.

Music and Set Design

The musical score was phenomenal. Songwriter and musician David Nehls is a genius. He composed a collection of songs, suitable for storytelling. It was amazing to hear all the music assembled just for this play. The tunes are catchy and memorable.

The one-man band and musician Alec Steinhorn performed his keyboard abilities and sound effects. His flow of music

was seamless from one transition to another.

The simplicity of the sets made it easy to transition between the scenes --- specifically the bedroom and the classroom settings. Behind-the-scenes production made the musical easy and pleasurable to view for all.

Production and Artistic Direction

Playwright and director Pang Yuan Yuan should take a bow for her first musical. The creativity flowed from paper and pen to a live musical. It is so exciting to see what the playwright will do for her next production.

Insight Colab Theatre hopes to create a show based on community members’ stories. If you are interested in being a part of this process and if you’d like to share your own immigration story, e-mail InsightColabTheatre@gmail.com.

For more plays by Asian Americans and for Asian Americans, visit Insight Colab Theatre’s website at insightcolab.org or follow them at fb.com/InsightColab or on Instagram @insight_colab.

Photo Credit: Mindy Delmez, Mon Ami Mindy Photography

Colorado Legislators Recognize Lunar New Year

On January 23, 2023, both the Senate and House of Representatives of the Colorado Legislature honored and recognized the Lunar New Year holiday, while welcoming dozens of Asian community leaders to the State Capitol.

In the House Chamber, Representative Matt Soper and Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez led the acknowledgement of Lunar New Year.

In the Senate Chamber, Senator Julie Gonzales led the tribute, while also recognizing the loss of Asian American lives that took place during the Lunar New Year weekend in California.

“While this is a time of joyous celebraiton for so many in our community, this has also been a holiday that just over the weekend has been tinged by loss and

tragedy,” said Gonzales.

“In a time where there is so much grief and sorrow, there is also much to celebrate and to honor, and so much work to do to end violence against Asian American communities in Colorado and across the country.”

Part of the tribute reads, “Lunar New Year celebrations offer us the opportunity to honor and recognize Asian Americans and their leaders for their contributions to both the history and the future of Colorado.”

Representative Matt Soper (left) and Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez (right) presented an acknowledgement of Lunar New Year as an important holiday to local Vietnamese and Asian community leaders during the session of the Colorado House of Representatives.

State Senator Julie Gonzales (left) and Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez (right) celebrate with Asian community leaders at the State Capitol.

Above: On January 23, 2023, Asian American Pacific Islander leaders celebrated a commendation from the Colorado Senate that honored Lunar New Year as an important holiday.

Middle: Colorado State Senator Julie Gonzales shares appreciation for Colorado’s Asian community and recognizes the contributions of Asian American leaders.

Community gathers at the Far East Center for Lunar New Year performances, music, and food

Freezing temperatures did not stop the Denver community from coming out to celebrate the Lunar New Year at the Far East Center. During back to back weekends (January 22, 28, and 29), the bustling shopping center was packed with families, vendors, performers, and elected officials ringing in the new year.

Governor Jared Polis, Councilwoman Jamie Torres, Councilwoman Debbie Ortega, Councilwoman Robin Kniech, and Denver Police Chief Rom Thomas shared in the festivities.

On its coldest day, January 29, Gdpt Nguyen Thieu Colorado, Nguyen Thieu Lion Dance, (ASKA) American Sports Karate Association, Judy Tran, Dung and GDPT Families, performed in the single-digit temperature.

Organized by Mimi Luong Ye, the annual celebration continues to grow each year.

Avenue Magazine celebrates 14th annual Lunar New Year Dinner

Asian

On Saturday, Jan. 14, Asian Avenue Magazine and Colorado Asian Culture Education Network (CACEN) hosted its 14th annual Lunar New Year Banquet Dinner at Empress Seafood Restaurant.

Performances included a lion dance by Guiding Mountain Dragon & Lion Dance Association, a Vietnamese Fan Dance by Judy Tran, K-POP dance by Royals Dance Team and a tai chi sword demonstration by Mr. Qiwu Huang. Dao Than, a masters student at Metro State University, served as mistress of ceremonies.

State Representative Leslie Herod provided a commendation to Asian Avenue Magazine and its staff to honor their contributions serving Colorado’s Asian American Pacific Islander communities since 2006. More than 250 attendees attended the Lunar New Year event, one of the first celebrations in Denver, to kick off the following weeks of festivities. The Lunar New Year officially began on January 22, 2023.

From left: U.S. Representative Ken Buck, State Representative Leslie Herod, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Denver Director General Bill Huang, Publisher of Asian Avenue Magazine Christina Yutai Guo, District Director for Congressman Jason Crow Alejandra Garza, and State Senator Chris Hansen.

Qiwu Huang gives a tai chi sword performance at the Lunar New Year Dinner.

Author Gil Asakawa shares about the history of Japanese cuisine at book signing event

To promote diverse, local authors in Colorado, Asian Avenue Magazine organized its inaugural Meet the Author event, featuring Japanese American blogger and writer Gil Asakawa.

Passionate readers, Japanese foodies, and fans of all-things Japanese signed up for the January 19th event to hear Asakawa talk about the evolution of Japanese cuisine enculturated into American culture, from sukiyaki to sushi found in grocery stores.

“This was a lovely event. I enjoyed listening to the historical information as it related to food,” said attendee Gloria Padilla.

For many years, Asakawa has contributed articles and photos to Asian Avenue Magazine, sharing his knowledge of Japanese cultures and food. The magazine staff wanted to, in return, show its support for Asakawa’s

new book, Tabemasho! Let’s Eat!

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Kokoro Restaurant, No Ke Aloha, and Pacific Mercantile --- bento boxes, Japanese crackers and snacks, bottled drinks, iced tea, and matcha tea --- were provided.

Japanese gift items, donated by Sakura Foudnation, were raffled to three winners at the end of the presentation. Then Asakawa signed his books with personalized messages for the attendees.

Autographed books are still available from the Crowded Bookshelf, a female-owned independent bookstore based in Fort Collins.

Contact Asian Avenue at hello@ AsianAveMag.com to obtain an autographed book by Gil Asakawa. Support your local Colorado author, while learning about Japanese foods!

Day of Remembrance 2023 Japanese

Day of Remembrance

Japanese American Healthcare Disparities

American Healthcare Disparities

Presented by Mile High JACL

Presented by Mile High JACL

FREE IN-PERSON EVENT | Masks Recommended

Sunday, February 19th | 1:00pm - 4:00pm MT

History Colorado Center 1200 N Broadway, Denver, CO 80203

FREE IN-PERSON EVENT | Masks Recommended

Sunday, February 19th | 1:00pm - 4:00pm MT

FREE IN-PERSON EVENT | Masks Recommended

On February 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which allowed the US "exclusion zones" to ban anyone of Japanese ancestry. As a result of EO 9066, 125,000 people of Japanese Japanese from Latin America, were incarcerated during World War II in concentration camps hastily built Amache in southeast Colorado, which imprisoned 8,000 people during the war.

Sunday, February 19th | 1:00pm - 4:00pm MT

History Colorado Center 1200 N Broadway, Denver, CO 80203

History Colorado Center 1200 N Broadway, Denver, CO 80203

The Mile High Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), the oldest Asian American organization, sponsors an annual Day of Remembrance event so we won't forget the injustice of World War happened 80 years ago.

On February 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which allowed the US military to designate "exclusion zones" to ban anyone of Japanese ancestry. As a result of EO 9066, 125,000 people of Japanese descent, including Japanese from Latin America, were incarcerated during World War II in concentration camps hastily built inland, including Amache in southeast Colorado, which imprisoned 8,000 people during the war.

FREE IN-PERSON EVENT | Masks Recommended Sunday, February 19th | 1:00pm - 4:00pm MT

On February 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which allowed the US military to designate "exclusion zones" to ban anyone of Japanese ancestry. As a result of EO 9066, 125,000 people of Japanese descent, including Japanese from Latin America, were incarcerated during World War II in concentration camps hastily built inland, including Amache in southeast Colorado, which imprisoned 8,000 people during the war.

Prior to incarceration, Japanese Americans, like other communities of color in the US, faced racial discrimination everyday life. Notably, established healthcare was often out of reach for non-white persons, and although approach to health and medicine has changed since a century ago, those discrepancies in healthcare and persist. A more pro t-driven model of healthcare led to the recent closing of the Keiro senior care facility in provided culturally competent care to its largely Japanese American senior residents. In order to ght back residents formed the Save Our Seniors movement, which advocated for the Keiro residents at risk for eviction.

History Colorado Center 1200 N Broadway, Denver, CO 80203

The Mile High Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), the oldest Asian American national civil rights organization, sponsors an annual Day of Remembrance event so we won't forget the injustice of World War II Incarceration that happened 80 years ago.

The Mile High Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), the oldest Asian American national civil rights organization, sponsors an annual Day of Remembrance event so we won't forget the injustice of World War II Incarceration that happened 80 years ago.

This year's Day of Remembrance will be held Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, from 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST in the Colorado Colorado Center. Join us for keynote speaker David Monkawa, an activist and journalist who is a leader in who will be speaking about the history of Japanese American healthcare in the United States and how it relates Keiro.

On February 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which allowed the US military to designate "exclusion zones" to ban anyone of Japanese ancestry. As a result of EO 9066, 125,000 people of Japanese descent, including Japanese from Latin America, were incarcerated during World War II in concentration camps hastily built inland, including Amache in southeast Colorado, which imprisoned 8,000 people during the war.

Prior to incarceration, Japanese Americans, like other communities of color in the US, faced racial discrimination in all facets of everyday life. Notably, established healthcare was often out of reach for non-white persons, and although the country’s approach to health and medicine has changed since a century ago, those discrepancies in healthcare and health outcomes persist. A more pro t-driven model of healthcare led to the recent closing of the Keiro senior care facility in Los Angeles, which provided culturally competent care to its largely Japanese American senior residents. In order to ght back against the closure, residents formed the Save Our Seniors movement, which advocated for the Keiro residents at risk for eviction.

Prior to incarceration, Japanese Americans, like other communities of color in the US, faced racial discrimination in all facets of everyday life. Notably, established healthcare was often out of reach for non-white persons, and although the country’s approach to health and medicine has changed since a century ago, those discrepancies in healthcare and health outcomes persist. A more pro t-driven model of healthcare led to the recent closing of the Keiro senior care facility in Los Angeles, which provided culturally competent care to its largely Japanese American senior residents. In order to ght back against the closure, residents formed the Save Our Seniors movement, which advocated for the Keiro residents at risk for eviction.

If you have any accessibility concerns about the event, please reach out to president@milehighjacl.org no later Note: This community event allows access to the 2nd oor Amache exhibit, but does not provide full access Colorado Center exhibits.

The Mile High Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), the oldest Asian American national civil rights organization, sponsors an annual Day of Remembrance event so we won't forget the injustice of World War II Incarceration that happened 80 years ago.

This year's Day of Remembrance will be held Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, from 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST in the Colorado Room at History Colorado Center. Join us for keynote speaker David Monkawa, an activist and journalist who is a leader in the Save Our Seniors, who will be speaking about the history of Japanese American healthcare in the United States and how it relates to the ght for Keiro.

This year's Day of Remembrance will be held Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, from 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST in the Colorado Room at History Colorado Center. Join us for keynote speaker David Monkawa, an activist and journalist who is a leader in the Save Our Seniors, who will be speaking about the history of Japanese American healthcare in the United States and how it relates to the ght for Keiro.

If you have any accessibility concerns about the event, please reach out to president@milehighjacl.org no later than February 1st.

If you have any accessibility concerns about the event, please reach out to president@milehighjacl.org no later than February 1st.

Note: This community event allows access to the 2nd oor Amache exhibit, but does not provide full access to all History Colorado Center exhibits.

Prior to incarceration, Japanese Americans, like other communities of color in the US, faced racial discrimination in all facets of everyday life. Notably, established healthcare was often out of reach for non-white persons, and although the country’s approach to health and medicine has changed since a century ago, those discrepancies in healthcare and health outcomes persist. A more pro t-driven model of healthcare led to the recent closing of the Keiro senior care facility in Los Angeles, which provided culturally competent care to its largely Japanese American senior residents. In order to ght back against the closure, residents formed the Save Our Seniors movement, which advocated for the Keiro residents at risk for eviction.

Note: This community event allows access to the 2nd oor Amache exhibit, but does not provide full access to all History Colorado Center exhibits.

This year's Day of Remembrance will be held Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, from 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST in the Colorado Room at History Colorado Center. Join us for keynote speaker David Monkawa, an activist and journalist who is a leader in the Save Our Seniors, who will be speaking about the history of Japanese American healthcare in the United States and how it relates to the ght for Keiro.

If you have any accessibility concerns about the event, please reach out to