October 5, 2016 International Examiner

First and third Wednesdays each month.

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

FREE EST. 1974 ES T. 1974 — SEATTLE VOLUME 43, NUMBER 19 — OCTOBER 5, 2016 – OCTOBER 18, 2016

THE NEWSPAPER OF NORTHWEST ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN COMMUNITIES. FIND YOUR INSPIRASIAN.

STANDING UP FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE SINCE 1969

2 — October 5, 2016 – October 18, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

IE OPINION

Justice Charles Z. Smith—Eternal Vigilance

By Bob Shimabukuro IE Columnist In November of 1997 Henry Miyatake, the man who developed the Japanese American redress plan, was still not satisfied seven years after the first redress checks were passed out. In a conversation/ interview with Washington State Supreme Court Justice Charles Z. Smith, Henry expressed his disappointment that he couldn’t see that any of the events which had transpired during and after the campaign for redress would prevent a reoccurrence of the incarceration of any group of people without due process. So he asked Justice Charles Z. Smith, whether or not that was a correct assessment.

Justice Smith answered rather bluntly, “The President has unlimited authority to issue an Executive Order to do anything.

The President has to suspend due process. There has to be a determination that there is a military necessity or it is being done in the interests of national security that the President can take extraordinary actions which are not controlled by Congress. So if you get the wrong President in, if the President decides that everybody born in Moscow, Idaho, should be put in a concentration camp, the President could do it.”

After a brief pause, Justice Smith continued: “What can we do? We sit back and keep our eyes and ears open and I think of Thomas Jefferson’s expression, ‘eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.’ How we remain vigilant is to put our politicians to task. We need to get more involved in the political process, [pay attention to] people running for significant offices like President of the U.S., attend political rallies, ask the questions, get commitments. I wish I can say that the temper of the times is such that these things would never happen again but I know otherwise. You never

IE STAFF

Established in 1974, the International Examiner is the only non-profit pan-Asian and Pacific Islander American media organization in the country. Named after the International District in Seattle, the “IE” strives to create awareness within and for our APA communities. 409 Maynard Ave. S. #203, Seattle, WA 98104. (206) 624-3925. iexaminer@iexaminer.org.

Charles Z. Smith

can anticipate the nature of human beings, whether they are Presidents of the United States, or members of Congress, mayors, or members of city council, you cannot anticipate what they will want to do in the future. From a legal standpoint, the President can do it.”

After a lengthy discussion, Justice Smith summarized: “Can it happen again? Yes. Should it happen again? No.” *** The family of Retired Justice Charles Z. Smith released a statement about his death (“peacefully in his home on Sunday, August 28, 2016” at the age of 89) and listed his accomplishments, including many for which he was the “first person of color”: Seattle Municipal Court Judge, King County Superior Court Judge, and Washington State Supreme Court Justice.

He also served as Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for King County, Special Assistant to then Attorney General of

IE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ron Chew, President Gary Iwamoto, Secretary Arlene Oki, At-Large Jordan Wong, At-Large Edgar Batayola, At-Large Heidi Park, At-Large COMMUNITY RELATIONS MANAGER Lexi Potter lexi@iexaminer.org

BUSINESS MANAGER Ellen Suzuki finance@iexaminer.org

DISTRIBUTORS Joshua Kelso Makayla Dorn Maryross Olanday Tiger Song Rachtha Danh

the United States Robert Kennedy, and Associate Dean and Professor of Law at the University of Washington Law School.

“Throughout his career, Justice Smith was actively engaged in local, national, and international programs and organizations related to education, human rights, family and children, religion, health, prison reform, military justice, and racial, ethnic and cultural awareness. He received numerous awards in recognition of his public service.”

Yes, he was all that, and much, much more. Especially to Henry Miyatake, the man with the redress plan, and Shosuke Sasaki, the writer of the plan, and thus, to us, too, the community. Both of them spent many hours with Justice Smith, getting help in drafting the legal underpinnings for redress.

In addition, Justice Smith also had a radio/TV show while he was the Assistant Dean at the UW Law School, and would, from time to time, talk about redress for Japanese Americans who were placed in concentration camps. He was a 20+ year member of the Seattle Chapter Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) and helped with the redress campaign whenever he could, including working with the mock hearings prior to the Commission on Wartime Internment and Relocation of Civilians (CWIRC) Hearings.

Justice Smith was also a great orator.

Clear, crisp, and often speaking without any notes. I remember a speech he gave when he was honored with the Seattle JACL Don Kazama Award. He told the history of the Seattle Chapter JACL from its early years to after the campaign for redress successfully ended. “Without any notes,” emcee Lori Matsukawa pointed out.

I was mesmerized.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Travis Quezon

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Isaac Liu

editor@iexaminer.org

STAFF WRITERS Chetanya Robinson

NEWS EDITOR Izumi Hansen news@iexaminer.org

ARTS EDITOR Alan Chong Lau

arts@iexaminer.org

DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR Rhea Panela rheapanela@iexaminer.org

CHIEF COPY EDITOR Anna Carriveau ASSISTANT EDITOR Alia Marsha

INTERNS Anakin Fung CONTRIBUTORS Bob Shimabukuro John Eklof Joshua Talosig Peter Bacho Andre Stackhouse Yayoi Winfrey Roxanne Ray Pinky Gupta

After 9/11/2001, all of us know now, that Miyatake and Justice Smith were right.

Some of those imprisoned (and tortured) since then have been incarcerated for more than three times the duration of incarceration of Japanese Americans in World War II. In his conversations with Henry, Justice Smith said that the CWIRC Hearings were very important to him personally. It was “an expiation of submerged anger; people shared for the first time, experiences they had chosen not to talk about even with their own families.” He said he learned a lot about the community from those hearings.

Those hearings presented another reality than the government’s false version of what happened. To me, Justice Smith’s reminder about vigilance means that we cannot allow more false narratives about people. Especially the kinds of false stories that demean people’s histories and cultures in ways that make them seem less human. These types of stories and stereotypes lead to mass incarcerations, killings without justice, and genocide.

In Bob’s perfect world, everyone would have clean air (always first on my list), clean water, healthy food, and a safe home. Everyone. There’s no way I can see that happening with the current global economic system. Changes need to be made world-wide. Still, I’m very optimistic that the younger generations (well, at least younger than mine) of people of color are really learning the Fo’ Real stuff, and that awareness will awaken many more people.

A lot has happened already. Learning the Real stuff, that is.

Thanks for showing us the way, RIP Charles Z. Smith.

Let’s Catch a Breath, Then Keep Moving.

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INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 18, 2016 — 3

IE OPINION

Mixed Emotions on Philippine President Duterte

By John Eklof IE Columnist

Growing up I didn’t have many consistent Filipino male role models in my life. My lolo was murdered when my mother was 11 years old. My uncles lived far away from my family in Lakewood.

The closest I got was the Filipino friends that lived in my neighborhood. We all grew up together, which meant in Filipino terms that we were all essentially cousins.

When I visited their homes, I’d greet their dads whom I would call uncle out of respect. During Filipino parties, I’d see my friends with their older cousins, dads, and grandfathers and wish I had that. My mom told me that they were my relatives too but deep down I knew this wasn’t true. There was always a yearning to have this, though at the time, I didn’t possess the words to articulate this basic need, I was just aware of this void in my life and figured it was normal—that’s like thinking it’s commonplace to drive a car with only three wheels. I was so use to the deficit, I couldn’t imagine anything else.

It wasn’t until after I returned to college in 2009, where finally I had any form of Filipino male role models.

Fast forward to 2016.

I was asked by someone if I supported President Rodrigo Duterte. After seeing a video about the atrocities happening in the Philippines with Duterte’s “war on drugs,” she reached out to me via Facebook. She wanted to know where I stood. She was the mother of one of my classmates from kindergarten and I believe her inquiry was out of matriarchal concern for me. I explained to her that it was complicated. I don’t support some of his policies but I also agree with some of the statements that he’s made.

Obviously, I can not support policies that are leading to some reports of over 3,000 deaths of Filipinos since President Duterte took office at the conclusion of June of this year. I told her that was alarming and doubly concerning for my relatives back home. Just last week I was speaking to an older Filipino man from Lakewood and he expressed how he

thinks there’s a chance Duterte can go the dictatorial route of Ferdinand Marcos in the coming years. That’s the last thing I would I want to happen. At this point, all we can do is wait and see.

However, with that being said, I told her that I do agree with President Duterte calling out the hypocrisy of Uncle Sam. How can the Obama administration earnestly call into question the Philippines’ war on drugs and its subsequent human rights violations, when the war on drugs in the United States has been destroying, killing, and incarcerating countless lives since its inception under Richard Nixon in 1971? At a press conference Duterte stated, “Why are you Americans killing black people there, shooting them down when they are already on the ground?

Answer that question, because even if it’s only one or two or three it’s still human rights violation, goddamn—you tell that to that American there.” Aside from his brash delivery, what he’s saying is as true as the sky being blue. Moreover, during the recent ASEAN summit in Laos, Duterte brought up the Bud Dajo mas-

The University of Washington’s Department of American Ethnic Studies is holding a reception to welcome new faculty members on Wednesday, October 12 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at University of Washington Club—Yukon Pacific Room.

New faculty members include Assistant Professor of African American Studies La TaSha Levy, Acting Assistant Professor of Asian American Studies Vincent Schleitwiler, Acting Assistant Professor of Asian American Studies Jeannie Shinozuka, and African American Studies Lecturer Brukab Sisay.

SCIDpda gala on October 21

SCIDpda will hold their annual fundraising gala on October 21 to celebrate 41 years of community building.

The gala will be held at the Pacific Tower at 1200 12th Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98144 and tickets are $125. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the auction begins at 6:45 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on the SCIDpda event page at http://scidpda. org/2016-annual-fundraiser.

API Candidates and Issues Forum on October 13

The November elections are coming up fast. Head to the API Candidates and

Issues Forum on October 13 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Asian Counseling and Referral Service (3639 Martin Luther King Jr Way S, Seattle, Washington 98144) to eat and learn more about the candidates and issues that are impacting the API community.

The goal is to provide an educational forum for API civic engagement where electoral candidates are treated fairly and provided with equal time to respond to questions on issues that are important to our API communities.

For more information, contact Monica Ng (monican@acrs.org), Mitchell Chen (mitchell@apace-wa.org), or Jamie Lee (jamiel@scidpda.org).

Kin On Community Center grand opening on Oct. 15

Phase I of the Kin On Community Center expansion project has been completed, and the Kin On community is inviting everyone to their grand opening on Saturday, October 15 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Kin On Community Center is located at 4416 S. Brandon St. Seattle, WA 98118.

The program for the celebration includes updates about Phase II of the expansion project, a preview of the Healthy Living Program, an interactive tour of the facility, live performance, activities, and refreshments.

RSVP by Oct. 8 to Anne Nguyen at (206) 556-2237 or by e-mail (healthyliving@

Needless to say my emotions are as mixed as my ancestry on this one. It’s difficult for me to completely support a person that has the potential in becoming a tyrannical despot. But it’s also hard not to agree with him when he’s telling the truth at times when it’s so easy to choose silence and not stir the pot. On a deeper level, I harbor secret hopes that he doesn’t end up on the list of world leaders that history remembers more so as a villain rather than a hero.

I need all of the role models I can get.

Employment

Announcements UW American Ethnic Studies Department welcomes new faculty

sacre in 1906, where American soldiers were responsible for killing over 600 Filipinos with the majority of them being women and children. This mind you, was during a meeting that included President Obama as one of its attendees. To have the gall to be so frank in front of the President of the United States is definitely a change of pace to what many Filipinos have been accustomed to seeing in the past years regarding the Filipino President. Usually, it’s a lot of deferential kowtowing. So to see all of this boldness is a breathe of fresh air.

kinon.org). For more information, visit kinonhealthcare.wordpress.com/aboutthe-project.

Community forum about City’s unsanctioned homeless encampment ordinance

Chong Wa Benevolent Association and the CIDBIA are hosting a community forum on Thursday, October 6 at 5:30 p.m. at Chong Wa Benevolent Association (522 7th Ave S).

Chong Wa and CIDBIA said in a joint statement: “Over the past few weeks, an ACLU-backed ordinance addressing unsanctioned homeless encampments has been making its way through the Seattle City Council Committee on Human Services and Public Health.

Many of you have spoken out through emails, letters, and public comment and we want to thank you for your efforts.

We have been diligently working on making sure this community’s voice is heard loud and clear to our City Council Members.”

The purpose of the forum will be to: give an update on some changes to the ordinance, discuss ways you can get involved, explore an action plan going forward, and listen to the community for feedback to bring back to City Council.

Administrative Supervisor

Project

Specialist

Washington State Convention Center (WSCC) is accepting applications for the position of Administrative Project Specialist Supervisor. This position is responsible for supporting the V.P. of Administration / AGM and the Administration Services team in the development and implementation of activities, programs and projects for business operations.

Required Qualifications: BA/BS degree and minimum of 5 years progressively responsible experience including direct supervision of employees and a focus on project coordination, records management, administration or related. Require related writing and editing work experience and Microsoft® Office Suite proficiency. Prefer direct experience coordinating a central filing system, archival system and developing office related procedures/ systems in a hospitality or government industry.

Visit www.wscc.com for further info or to download an application.

Applications are also available at the WSCC Service Entrance, 9th and Pike, Mon-Fri, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. WSCC application must be completed for consideration. Jobline: (206) 694-5039. EOE.

4 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

IE NEWS

Community honors Bob Santos, the man and his legacy

By Chetanya Robinson IE Staff Writer

Hundreds gathered at the WaMu Theater at Century Link Field on September 23 to remember legendary civil rights activist and Chinatown International District community leader Bob Santos, and celebrate his legacy.

Santos, who passed away in August at the age of 82, is survived by his wife, Washington State Representative for the 37th District Sharon Tomiko Santos, six children, 19 grandchildren, and 16 greatgrandchildren.

U.S. District Court Judge Richard A. Jones served as Emcee for the ceremony, which traced Santos’ life and activism from the beginning.

A video presentation during the ceremony featured an interview with Santos in which he talked about his early life and activism. Growing up in what’s now Seattle’s International District and Central District, Santos remembered a more diverse, segregated era of Seattle history.

Raised by his father in the International District, Santos would show his school friends the gambling halls and nightclubs where African Americans and Filipinos played music, and where he and the other kids could earn a dime performing the traditional Filipino Tinikling bamboo dance during intermissions between jazz players.

Santos got his start in activism during the civil rights era, when the African American, Chicano, Native American fishing rights, and other movements flourished. At this time, Asian American activists were focused on preserving the ID for the people who built it, hoping to avoid the fate of Manilatown in San Francisco, which was torn down for development and Little Tokyo, whose residential population was displaced by gentrification in the years following the incarceration of Japanese and Japanese Americans during World War II. At the time, Santos said, some people didn’t understand why the activists were fighting to preserve the neighborhood.

“We were fighting to preserve the housing for the people who built it, and that was our parents, our grandparents, and great grandparents,” Santos said in the video. “We didn’t want them displaced out of the neighborhood that they built.”

Preserving the International District for the residents who built it was a lifelong struggle for Santos.

“I’m sitting there with all this power and all this influence and I’m thinking, how do you use it?” he recalled in the video. “How will I make my presence here felt in the community?”

These words were the cue for a slideshow of photos from throughout Santos’ life, played over Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” one of Santos’ favorite karaoke songs.

Figure 1 Flag presentation on September 23, 2016 recognizing Bob Santos’ military service. Presented by Daniel Santos (son), and community leaders including Lloyd Hara and Frank Irigon. • Photo by Chetanya Robinson

Santos was a member of the famed Gang of Four, a group of four community leaders from the Asian American, African American, Native American, and Hispanic communities who worked together in solidarity with each other and to achieve common goals. Author Lawney Reyes spoke on behalf of the late Native American leader Bernie Whitebear, and Estele Ortega, executive director of El Centro de la Raza, on behalf of the late Roberto Maestas, who founded the community organization.

The last surviving member of the Gang of Four, Larry Gosset, spoke about the social justice movements the four were involved in, not just locally but nationally and internationally, from South Africa to Nicaragua to Wounded Knee, South Dakota.

“It is very important to me as the last one standing of the Four Amigos that you realize the tremendous impact that Bob had on our lives—on Roberto, Bernie, and my life, but most importantly the leadership role he played amongst leaders,” Gosset said. “He was a leader of leaders. ... We know that cross-cultural and community solidarity works. No one taught us better than Bob.” Attendees of the ceremony remembered Santos’ ability to bridge divides and unite diverse groups of people.

“When I think of Bob I think of only one word, and that’s leadership,” said Jesse Wineberry, who served as state representative for the 43rd and 37th districts. Wineberry said he never forgot that when he first ran for office as a relatively unknown law student against an incumbent, Santos was one of the first to endorse him.

“Though most of his leadership was for the ID, it really went beyond that. We in the African American community consider him a leader with and for us. People in the Native American community con-

sider him a leader with and for them, and of course the Hispanic community as you saw. So that’s why you see here at his celebration of life such a rich, diverse fabric of this community.”

Tagoipah Mathno, a member of the Seattle chapter of the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum cofounded by Santos’ wife Sharon, said Santos’ life was a reminder of the power of solidarity among people.

“The communities of color, it all connects—it was a great reminder we have to be unified in solidarity,” she said.

“That’s why you see so many different people here today across backgrounds and ages.”

Santos’ tireless spirit was also an inspiration, she said.

“No matter how tired or how old you get, you can still go on to do something that you really love for your community.”

For Art Wong, former state representative for the 27th district, Santos was a figure he looked up to throughout his political career. “He was always an inspiration because he blended the political and the community. He was close with political leaders but he was

also close with the community and was a person who just loved to have a sense of fun in the community.”

Many speakers at the ceremony remembered ways Santos had touched them on a personal level.

“I’m sure it doesn’t surprise anybody here that we regarded him as our Uncle Bob,” said Anitra Freeman, a poet and member of the homeless organization the Women’s Housing Equality and Enhancement League (WHEEL), her voice giving way with emotion. “I know that we share that with a lot more people that are here today. But when you’ve been pushed to the margins, thrown away, treated as invisible, to be greeted by the kind of love that glowed from Uncle Bob is life-giving. Uncle Bob treated everybody as equals. Nobody was less and nobody was more. That gave us a lot of strength.”

Joel Ing, a lifelong friend of the Santos family, shared personal anecdotes and reflected on Santos’ lifelong work in preserving the International District.

“He guided us to places that we didn’t think we could obtain. He oversaw us.

He opened up himself in a way that very, very few people did. He did it to all ages, to all colors, to all persuasions. It did not matter.”

Ing noted that Santos was never elected to public office, though he unsuccessfully ran for the 35th District state Senate seat in 1973.

“None of us could see him up in front of a dais like this following some prepared remarks, saying why he should be elected,” Ing said. “He spoke from the heart. And he spoke with so much conviction and so much passion that there was no pretense about it. So as we know, he was truly our politician. He was our public person, and he will always be that.”

Ing ended by thanking Santos for doing so much for the International District.

“Uncle Bob left us with a community that survived the ’70s. He left us with a community that revitalized in the ’80s, ’90s and 2000s. He’s left us with a community today that continues to grow. ... Uncle Bob saved a neighborhood, he saved a community, and he saved us.”

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 5

Uncle Bob Santos—Sammy’s Boy On Saturday, August 27, 2016, Uncle Bob Santos passed away, leaving an unbelievably accomplished and inspiring legacy of activism and social justice that has forever impacted Chinatown-International District and those who live and work here. Thousands of people attended his memorial held on September 23, 2016, at Wamu Theater to pay their respects and come together to ensure his legacy in protecting and sustaining the livability of his community, the International District, continues to build. Tom Im, Community Development and Sustainability Director for InterIm CDA for 20 years, spoke at the memorial. The following is a copy of his speech and the poem, “Sammy’s Boy.”

Uncle Bob.

One attribute that stands out for me when reflecting about him was his generosity—his generosity of giving his time. There are many ways to describe him—friend, mentor, leader, rabble-rouser, change agent, community organizer, hero—but for me and for many of his nieces and nephews, it’s Uncle. It’s fitting because he made sure to spend time with us, by coming to our office or inviting us to his home or his favorite karaoke bar, where he would talk and listen to make sure all was good for each one of us. And while he sat there, he made us comfortable, confident, and a little bit more brave. And he did this not just once, but countless times with such joy and true sincerity. There are so many smart and charismatic people that you meet in life, but rarely do you find someone, who was as generous as Uncle Bob. In his generosity, Uncle Bob always seemed to say, “Yes,” when someone asked him to speak at an event or give a tour. And when Uncle Bob would lead these tours, he would tell stories, entrancing all that listened, for Bob was a master in storytelling. And through these stories, we learned a little bit about him, but more importantly a lot about the community that he fought for all his life, the International District. Through these stories and getting to know Bob, we learned what it meant to live with purpose, to serve with dignity while working for the dignity of others, to think creatively while acting strategically. We learned a lot.

When Uncle Bob retired in 2006 from InterIm, his second retirement, his staff wanted to give him a big send off. And as one of the gifts we wanted to shower him with, I wrote the following to honor one particular story he often told. It’s about his father, Sammy Santos, who had been a well-known prizefighter in Seattle, but who, through the years of boxing, had lost his eyesight.

—Tom Im

Uncle Bob Santos • IE File Photo

He’s smiling.

Sammy’s Boy

This man who has survived a life of his color being scorned by words and cruel gazes of men who don’t know any better; this boxer who has endured the countless jarring blows to his body and his head; this Manong who is blind from his profession and left living in a tiny room, in a poor and ignored community. For this is the day his son takes his arm and shows him the place that he has come to love. For this is when his son leads him to the barber shop where he gets his hair cut, the hotel where he takes a bath, the diner where he eats his lunch, the tavern where he sips his beer. This is the day when he meets all his friends that make up his memory and moments of glory. And this is the time when he can share a smile with his boy who can see the life that he once lived.

He’s smiling.

He sees a soldier, an entrepreneur, a boxer, an activist, a man. He sees courage and a leader. He sees charisma and character. He sees heart and hope. He sees his son’s steps, once small and timid, grow into strong, giant strides. He sees that his own blindness gave his son a vision, a set of eyes that could transform the world that he lived in for all the better.

He’s smiling.

He sees a place that once was poor and ignored, born again. For his son has built new homes for Manongs that lived all their lives in poor, decrepit rooms. A new garden built for the aged who would otherwise be sitting in their small quarters, just waiting for the next day to come. A gymnasium and a library, so all the neighborhood’s children could have a place to play and live life, as a child should. He has seen these, as well as many other great feats achieved by this son of his.

6 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

40 years later, InterIm’s affordable housing initiative still vital

By Alia Marsha IE Assistant Editor

the area median income, which is about $80,000.

When Robert “Uncle Bob” Santos created Inter*Im (known today as InterIm CDA) in the early 1970s, he met with businesses, activists, and community leaders. One of their first initiatives was to preserve affordable housing opportunities in the Chinatown International District (CID). Along the way, the organization grew into offering a multitude of other services, and helped create other service provider organizations such as Seattle Chinatown International District Preservation and Development Authority (SCIDpda) and International Community Health Rendering of Hirabayashi Place. Designed by Mithun. • Courtesy Image Services (ICHS). More than 40 years later, InterIm’s housing services and Most of the clients that come through can speak 10 Asian Pacific Islander homelessness prevention program is still InterIm’s doors in Nihonmachi seeking languages, but it also prevents family an essential part of the community. housing assistance are not homeless separation. Currently, in most of City In 1975, InterIm led the creation people living on the streets, according of Seattle shelters for women who are of a nonprofit organization called the to Wasberg. They are those who are domestic violence survivors, teenaged International District Housing and Social couch-surfing, living in their cars, or sons are not allowed. InterIm’s program Services (IDHSS) to preserve affordable facing eviction. InterIm assists people welcomes teenaged sons. housing in the neighborhood. IDHSS according to their need; covering their In a 2012 report cited by Asian Pacific later changed its name to International rent and bills, for example.

Institute on Gender-Based Violence, 41District Housing Alliance (IDHA).

“It’s pretty intense, and that is what 61 percent of Asian women nationally In 2012, IDHA merged into InterIm. makes the housing services unique report domestic abuse—both physical Jill Wasberg, Resource Development because if you’re just gonna call 211, and sexual—by their intimate partner in and Marketing Manager of InterIm, you’re not gonna get hose wrap-around their lifetime. This figure is two to three said that back in the IDHA days, a lot services,” said Wasberg. “It’s a really times that of white women, and does not of the clients were from the CID or culturally responsive program that they reflect to cases that go unreported. surrounding neighborhoods. Today, they wouldn’t get elsewhere.”

InterIm also converts historical come from 15 counties in Washington InterIm also provides furnished homes buildings in the neighborhood into state. Wasberg said that one client came to people escaping domestic violence. affordable housing or workforce housing, from as far as the city of Sequim in The domestic violence program is unique as it calls it. To be qualified, applicants Clallam County. not only because its case managers have to make certain percentages below

InterIm’s latest housing development project, Hirabayashi Place, was completed in March 2016. Eight years passed between the acquisition of the property—a vacant building that was a night club in its previous life—to the construction of the $30 million building to the residents’ move-in day. Some of InterIm’s other projects like the Eastern Hotel and the NP Hotel, however, did not take nearly as long to renovate and house residents with a mix of medium to low incomes.

Hirabayashi Place received applications for its 96 apartments.

300

InterIm released in late September their “Seattle Chinatown-International District 2020 Healthy Community Plan.” The document elaborates on the problems faced by the community and the solutions InterIm seeks to provide in collaboration with other organizations to build a holistically healthy community.

One such solution is to “stabilize residential and commercial renters and owners through direct services.”

“We will advocate to revise 211 coordinated entry requirement for housing services to remove barriers to accessing services, especially among non-English speakers, so that individuals and families facing eviction and homelessness can more easily be stabilized and placed into safe, affordable housing,” wrote the authors of the plan Valerie Tran, Tom Im and Kay Nelson.

The API Vote Matters

How InterIm CDA is Raising Awareness this Election Season

By Jill Wasberg InterIm CDA Election Day is in four weeks and InterIm CDA with partner organizations have been leading ongoing efforts to register and inform Asian Pacific Islander populations in voting through the services of their programs and reaching out to limited English speaking communities within King County.

If mobilized to vote, API Americans have the potential to make a significant difference in the outcome of elections across the country, as the country’s fastest growing racial minority group. There are over 411,000 eligible API American voters in Washington State, comprising 7.8 percent of the state’s electorate. From 2000 to 2010, the number of eligible API American voters grew by 43 percent, compared to a 14 percent growth rate state-wide. In King County, Asian and Pacific Islanders comprise 16 percent of the county, with 322,260 residents.

“InterIm CDA is working to make voting more accessible to the API community not just this election season, but also in the long term,” said Kay Nelson, Civic Engagement Project Assistant. Throughout 2015, Nelson has

been working with organizations such as The Seattle Chinatown International District Preservation and Development Authority, Asian Counseling Referral Service, International Community Health Services, and APACE to hold ballot parties, candidate forums, and table at

community events to reach future API voters. Their events have had interpretation services available in Vietnamese, Korean, Mandarin, and Cantonese.

There are a number of important events and dates to be aware of in the next five weeks: • On October 9 and 19, InterIm CDA and community partners will host viewing

parties for the presidential debates at the Bush Asia Center Legacy Hall.

Live interpretation will be available in Mandarin and Cantonese.

• The deadline to mail voter registration forms is October 10. Registration can be completed online or printed from the King County Elections website. The deadline to register in person at the Renton or Downtown Seattle King County Elections office is October 31.

• InterIm CDA and community partners will host the annual API Candidate Forum on Thursday, October 13, 5:00 p.m. at ACRS. Candidates from various races will attend to talk about their positions on issues that impact the API population and communities.

With a long history of working with residents in the International District through their Housing Services Program and advocating for community sustainability, InterIm CDA is well poised to provide voter education services in the neighborhood as well as collaborate with organizational partners and communities outside the Chinatown-International District. This work has been made possible by a grant from Seattle Foundation and King County Elections.

Danny Woo Garden and neighborhood statistics:

Number of plots and gardeners: 100 plots and 70 gardeners (approximately) Ethnicities represented in the garden: Chinese, Taiwanese, Korean, Mexican, European-American (Caucasian) Number of volunteers: 180-300 volunteers a year Number of youth/children per year who participate in educational programming: 125 Number of visitors per year: 5,000 (approximately) Number of people who live in Chinatown-ID: 3,500 Percentage of residents over 55 years of age: 42% Percentage of elders who live on incomes below $6,000/year: 75% Percentage of residents in Chinatown-ID who speak little to no English: Over 50%

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 7

Stories from the Danny Woo Community Garden A profile of some of the lives InterIm CDA’s garden has impacted

By Jill Wasberg InterIm CDA No matter how many times you hear the story of how the Danny Woo Garden was created in 1975 it never stops inspiring. It’s a tried and true classic among all the stories of social justice and community activism in the history of Chinatown-International District. The story of the garden is a direct reflection of the strength of the community.

Bob Santos, Executive Director of InterIm CDA, had worked tirelessly in the ’60 and early ’70s to fight gentrification and displacement of the low-income, immigrant, and refugee individuals and families by securing property for affordable housing in the neighborhood. After preserving homes for thousands of people in the neighborhood, he heard from the Asian and Pacific Islander elders another necessity that was void in need of filling in the International District—a place to garden. He rallied again to make it happen.

Santos made the famous “dollar a year” deal with businessman Danny Woo, and then organized hundreds of volunteers and activists to build a community garden as a place where the neighborhood’s elders could grow culturally relevant fruits and vegetables. One of Seattle’s first community gardens, it became a source of food security, cultural pride, community building, and 41 years later, still is today. Its value and impact are felt by all who visit, but there is no other truer testament to how critical the garden is to physical and mental well-being than hearing from those who garden here.

These stories were adapted from interviews conducted by youth from ACRS’ Job Readiness Program who worked alongside Danny Woo Garden gardeners in the spring of 2016. Youth developed interview questions, conducted interviews with the elder gardeners, and translated their stories into English. This was a special project as part of the intergenerational programming that takes place in the garden.

Ms. Tran. • Photo courtesy of InterIm CDA

Ms. Shan. • Photo courtesy of InterIm CDA

Ms. Shan

Ms. Shan has been a member of the Danny Woo Community Garden since 2011 when she began growing alongside her husband. She grows chives, tomatoes, leafy greens, and squash. Prior to immigrating to the United States in 1988, Ms. Shan spent over five decades in Beijing working in corporate communications. Although she’d never had her own edible growing space before joining the Danny Woo Community Garden, she has fond memories of spending time on her grandparent’s farm in China.

In recent years, Ms. Shan’s husband’s battle with cancer has prevented him from visiting the garden as frequently as he used to. She said that when he is able to garden alongside his wife, the sunshine and fresh air bring him so much joy. Ms. Shan often walks to the garden from her home which is a two to three mile walk. “Sharing makes me healthy, and long days in the sunshine gives me health.”

Mr. Pan. • Photo courtesy of InterIm CDA

Mr. Pan

At 92 years old, Mr. Pan is one of the most senior gardeners in the Danny Woo Community Garden, and has seen the garden grow and change since first setting down roots at the garden in 1996. Mr. Pan’s long career as a Design Engineer in China taught him how to optimize his small growing space. On a tour of his plots, Mr. Pan proudly pointed out the 20 varieties of fruits, vegetables, and flowers he nurtures during his daily visits to his garden plot, a 15-foot square space with roses, lettuce, sweet potatoes and much more. Unlike the majority of the gardeners, Mr. Pan lives outside of Chinatown-ID. He said that commuting to the garden and making time to be outside is his top priority.

Ms. Tran

Ms. Tran and her husband are two of the newer gardeners to join the Danny Woo Community Garden. She had been on the gardeners wait list, a list of over 40 people long, for two years. She and her husband have been long-time residents of the Seattle area, since escaping the communist regime in Vietnam by boat in 1985. In the United States, Ms. Tran’s husband worked as a farm laborer, harvesting rhubarb and berries for many years.

Now in their retirement, Ms. Tran and her husband have acquired one of the highly sought after plots at the Danny Woo Community Garden, where she plans to grow greens, flowers, and squash. She and her husband haven’t had a place to grow food since moving to their small apartment in Chinatown-International District.

Ms. Chen. • Photo courtesy of InterIm CDA

Ms. Chen Mr. Liu. • Photo courtesy of InterIm CDA

Mr. Liu

Ms. Lai. • Photo courtesy of InterIm CDA

Ms. Lai

Ms. Lai was a career farmer in her home country of Hong Kong. After moving to Seattle in 1993, she felt very homesick for her friends and family back in Hong Kong.

She took whatever opportunity she could to visit home and stay connected to her roots.

Through the years however, she was able to build a community within ChinatownInternational District and noticed many of her new friends were growing at the Danny Woo Community Garden. In 2015, she joined them, and she has recently relocated to a plot that neighbors one of her closest friends of over 20 years. Ms. Lai treats gardening as her daily form of exercise. She loves planting potatoes, lettuce, and squash.

Mr. Liu started planting at the Danny Woo Community Garden four years ago.

As a resident of Chinatown-International District, Mr. Liu often visits the garden twice a day whenever he feels bored at home. He is happiest when he is able to harvest from his garden, especially when his beans are ready. He likes spring time the most because it marks the beginning of the growing season.

Mr. Liu started growing at the Danny Woo Community Garden three years ago, through the encouragement of his children. After a series of health ailments, he decided to look for a place to be more physically active in his neighborhood.

Working in the garden everyday has been an important part of his journey to restoring his health. Mr. Liu is often in the garden with his wife, who loves to grow alongside him.

Mr. Wu. • Photo courtesy of InterIm CDA

Mr. Wu

Mr. Wu has been gardening since 2014.

Before his days as a gardener, Mr. Wu was a teacher, which is where he first discovered gardening. After leading children’s lessons in the garden he says he realized how amazing it was, so he started planting at his home in China. In his garden plot in the Danny Woo Community Garden, he treats the plants as his children. When he is watering them it reminds him of feeding his children. He likes organic food because it makes his body healthy and he believes gardening is good for his body. He also appreciates that gardening helps him stay trim and physically active.

This past summer he planted beans, eggplants, chilies, and greens. Mr. Wu and his wife, who is a volunteer with a local Chinatown-International District social service agency, go to the garden together to water, weed, and tend to their plot.

Ms. Chen has been gardening at the Danny Woo garden since 2005. Before obtaining a plot at the Danny Woo Community Garden, she worked as a doctor and had never gardened before. Over the 11 years that she’s been in the garden, she says she developed a green thumb by learning from the garden managers and her fellow gardeners.

Ms. Chen said that being able to garden at the Danny Woo Community Garden gives her so much joy. Her favorite thing to grow is green beans and she loves to be in the garden in the summer. She is a firm believer that planting is good for both her health and the environment. Ms. Chen also takes care of garden insects and has built some nests for the bees.

When she is out in the garden, she enjoys the fresh air and the blooming flowers. Her favorite fruit is the Asian pears that grow in the orchard that line her plot. She plants organic vegetables rather than non-organic because she says she feels these are better for her body. She loves that gardening gets her out of her home and keeps her physically active.

8 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

InterIm releases healthy community action plan

By Alia Marsha IE Assistant Editor After a year of research, InterIm CDA finally released its Seattle ChinatownInternational District 2020 Healthy Community Action Plan. It’s holistic and comprehensive approach to health in the neighborhood, as well as its collaboration with a handful service provider organizations in the city, make this plan the first of its kind.

“We see this 2020 Healthy Community Action Plan as a tool for partners, the city, the county to say we recognized the issues and problems in this neighborhood and now these are the solutions,” said Valerie Tran, Healthy Communities Program Manager at InterIm. Tran was one of the authors of the plan.

The plan was born out of the need to characterize the problems and issues facing the Chinatown-International District (CID). It also came from the decision for InterIm and other organizations such as SCIDpda, International Community Health Services, Yesler Community Collaborative, and Chinatown International District Business Improvement Area to come together for the first time to design and implement a community health plan.

Tran said that often the City of Seattle comes to the neighborhood and asks organizations such as InterIm to help it engage with the community to present problems in the neighborhood.

“I’ve engaged for so long,” Tran said.

“People get tired of being surveyed and asked the same questions and not seeing any response. Stop asking us what the problem is, start asking us what the InterIm’s healthy community plan looks at physical health, public safety, and mental-well being. • Courtesy Photos solutions are. Hopefully the city can and mental well-being. The first sentence that is available is often unsafe. According finally step up and take responsibility.” of the 27-page plan is a 1948 quote from to this plan, it discourages residents of the The elaborated plan offers a survey of the World Health Organization: “Health CID to be physically active and hence is a the neighborhood’s physical and social is a state of complete physical, mental, contributor to an overall lack of opportunity problems, strategies to combat them, and social wellbeing and not merely the for those living and working in the examples of activities that support such absence of disease or infirmity.” neighborhood to be healthy. In addition, strategies, and indicators to measure the One striking fact presented in the plan is the expansion of Hing Hay Park seemed to outcomes of the strategies. that the CID has the least amount of open include more concrete than grass.

Health, in this plan, is taken as a holistic and green space per person compared to any Tran said that in fall 2015, the issue of physical health, physical safety, other neighborhood in Seattle. Such space organizations involved in this plan

organized a “deep community engagement process” with over 300 residents, community leaders, and workers in the neighborhood as research for this plan. Each group was asked different topics. For example, a group of Danny Woo community gardeners was asked about access to green space, healthy foods, and barriers they faced in the neighborhood to be healthy. People who visited the Chinese Information Services Center, on the other hand, were asked questions pertaining to access to information and access to health care.

But at the end of the day, their answers led to common conclusions: the CID is not a healthy neighborhood.

“So the most frequently mentioned issues were feeling unsafe being outside, feeling socially isolated, feeling like the neighborhood is really unclean—the sidewalks, the air, the smells, and just a general lack of opportunities to be healthy,” Tran said. “So despite having talked about different topics with each of those groups, the key barriers are the same. That’s what informed all of this.”

Last week, InterIm was awarded a $100,000 grant from BUILD Health, its original funder. Since then, Swedish—a partner—has exceeded their responsibility to match that amount and committed $120,000 toward the implementation phase of the plan set to kick off in 2017.

But Tran said that InterIm has already started thinking about how it’s going to fund implementation of this plan in 2018. “A lot of these solutions require capital investments, investments for social services, staff funding to do this advocacy,” she said.

InterIm is hoping that with this plan, the City of Seattle will not skip over the CID as it continues to grow and prosper.

But this plan is for new developers that come in to the neighborhood, too.

“You’re coming into the neighborhood and if you claim that you want to know about the neighborhood, this is one thing you can read,” Tran said.

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 9

Getting WILD in the International District

By Jill Wasberg InterIm CDA InterIm CDA’s youth leadership program, Wilderness Inner-city Leadership Development (WILD), turns 20 years old next year in 2017. Over the course of those two decades, the program has been responsible for engaging over 1,000 youth— predominantly Asian and Pacific Islander youth from low-income, immigrant, and refugee families—in developing their skills in community activism, advocacy, and environmental justice.

“WILD was founded in direct response to youth who considered the International District their cultural home feeling disenfranchised and challenged by the obstacles that low-income immigrant and refugee youth face on a daily basis,” said Pradeepta Upadhyay, executive director of InterIm CDA. “It was necessary to show them they could not only activate their neighborhood, but take pride in it and take care of it.”

Youth-related crime and gang activity were on the rise in the neighborhood at that time and were contributing to a less healthy and safe neighborhood.

WILD was created to offer youth in the International District an alternative to gangs, violence, and crime, and empower them to create positive change in their community by creating a safe space that offered mentorship, encouragement, and peer support.

Since its inception, WILD has reached out to youth from communities of color around the Seattle area who have demonstrated significant resiliency despite having been historically disenfranchised through financial, language, and cultural barriers. The strong majority of WILD youth participants are first or second generation from immigrant and refugee homes: 71% identify as immigrant and/or refugee, and 54% come from multilingual households and identify as English Language Learners. The majority are from low-income families, and 100% come from immigrant- and refugee-populated communities of people who have helped build and sustain the rich culture of the International District.

The annual WILD eagle-watching float trip on the Skagit River. • Photo courtesy of InterIm CDA

focal points, which are intergenerational engagement, community building, and experiential learning,” said Alisa Koyama, WILD Program Manager. “You will see all of our community projects and curriculum throughout the year tying those three components together.”

Community building projects are the core of the program. Every year, youth are introduced to the concepts of environmental justice and civic engagement. They work together on a weekly basis first to identify an environmental issue affecting their community. Then the youth develop a community project that addresses the identified problem.

For instance, this summer, WILD youth worked in a close partnership with Puget Sound Clean Air Agency to monitor air quality in the International District.

The Agency provided trainings on how to monitor air quality and equipped WILD youth to gather data and provided stipends for their research. Youth engaged in workshops that taught them about the impacts and consequences of chronic air pollution in their neighborhood and “We engage WILD participants in worked with the nonprofit organization civic leadership through three curriculum 21 Progress to develop storytelling and presentation skills.

WILD youth worked in a close partnership with Puget Sound Clean Air Agency to monitor air quality in the International District. • Courtesy Photo

The youth will continue to work with the Agency through the summer of 2017 by informing researchers on relevant questions to ask, places to focus on to collect data, and even effective strategies to build trust and long-lasting relationship with the community to ensure the Agency continues to get relevant samples. Such efforts will then help identify and implement local mitigation strategies that will improve the health of the community. This program also breaks down barriers that youth of color and young adults face in being exposed to, pursuing, and succeeding in the professional environmental sector.

organize a holiday gift drive for the CID community members.

Every year, youth take elders from the community on an eagle-watching river float on the Skagit River. They provide interpretation and develop their knowledge of wilderness ecology outside the urban setting to which they are accustomed.

WILD youth also host a holiday dinner every year in the International District for over 200 community elders, and they also

year, we see the youth develop a supportive community that acts as a foundation for them to be environmental justice advocates.”

Experiential learning takes place in all parts of the curriculum with the belief that youth learn best through real-life experiences and when given the opportunity to explore their potential outside of their comfort zone. The most extensive opportunity being a four-night camping trip in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The wilderness immersion pushes youth to test their physical abilities and experience a new environment. They also develop outdoor skills and learn how to care for the natural environment, while Another important aspect of the WILD making connections to its impact on their program is intergenerational relationship urban environments. building. “We want youth interacting with “One of the most rewarding parts of elders in the neighborhood to develop WILD for the youth is the annual camping relationships and take pride in their culture trip in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie and background,” Koyama said.

National Forest,” Koyama said. “Every

As one youth put it: “In both places, the city and the outdoors, if one wants to change, it takes more than one person to make a change.”

WILD youth on a wilderness field trip. • Photo courtesy of Daniel Briggs, USFS

10 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

A lasting footprint in the International District and beyond 1969: International District Improvement Association (Inter*Im) was incorporated, today known as InterIm CDA. 1971: The Kingdome was being planned, and the community and InterIm CDA protested and held demonstrations to protect the neighborhood and its residents.

1974: InterIm CDA helped form ID Community Health Clinic, later to become International Community Health Services (ICHS); InterIm CDA organized a working group to draft language that in 1975 became SCIDpda.

1975: Based on feedback from elders in the community, Bob Santos of InterIm CDA led activists and volunteers to create the Danny Woo Community Garden.

1977: InterIm CDA helped form the Denise Louie Early Childhood Education Center.

1979: InterIm CDA helped form the International District Housing Alliance.

1981: InterIm CDA and other community organizations helped create the International Children’s Park, now the Donnie Chin International Children’s Park.

1990: SCIDpda and InterIm CDA lobby for Metro property for ID Village Square.

1991: InterIm CDA renovated the Gee How Oak Tin Apartments, creating 21 affordable apartments.

NP Hotel in the International District. • Courtesy Photo

1994: InterIm CDA acquired the NP Hotel, creating 63 affordable apartments.

1996: InterIm CDA renovated the Rex Hotel, creating 30 affordable apartments.

1997: ID Housing Alliance created the Wilderness Inner-City Leadership Development, WILD, the youth leadership program.

1998: InterIm CDA helped create Highland Gardens Family Housing in Issaquah, creating 58 affordable apartments; InterIm CDA renovated the Eastern Hotel; InterIm CDA and the CIDBIA implemented Jackson Street Streetscape Improvements, including the columns under I-5.

2006: InterIm CDA created Nihonmachi Terrace Family Housing, creating 41 new apartments.

Nihonmachi Place, in the International District. • Courtesy Photo

2008: InterIm CDA secured property at 5th and Main for workforce housing, eventually to become Hirabayashi Place.

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 11

Housing

construction

income

children

International

Filipino

students

2009: InterIm CDA created Samaki Commons Family Housing, creating 41 new apartments; InterIm CDA completed the Greet Street Project on Maynard Ave.; InterIm CDA started the Children’s Garden and added a chicken coop to the garden.

2012: InterIm CDA and ID Housing Alliance merged.

2013: InterIm CDA led a neighborhood beautification project with Urban Artworks artists painting columns on King Street under the I-5 freeway; InterIm CDA organized 100 volunteers to fold 3000 origami cranes to create an inspirational message in a temporary art installation honoring Gordon Hirabayashi’s courageous stance for justice at the future location of Hirabayashi Place.

2016: InterIm CDA completed Hirabayashi Place, creating 96 new workforce apartments and Legacy of Justice, a public art installation honoring Gordon Hirabayashi.

Hirabayashi Place in the Chinatown International District. • Courtesy Photo

12 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

Celebrating Filipino American History Month “1946: A Turning Point” to “2016: Be The Turning Point!”

By Maria Batayola Special to the IE Filipinos are the second largest Asian Pacific Islander group in Washington state. This year, the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) established “1946: A Turning Point” as its theme, marking the 70th anniversary of the 1946 laws that brought us the Filipino American community that we know today.

Dr. Dawn Mabalon, Associate History Professor at San Francisco State University and FANHS National Scholar cites four significant historical markers in 1946 for Filipinos: the implementation of July 4, 1946 Philippine Independence as planned in the 1934 Tydings-McDuffie Act; the Luce-Celler Act, the 1946 Alien Fiancées and Fiancés Act, and the 1946 Recission Act. To fully appreciate these events, let’s go further back in history.

Before 1934

The Philippine archipelago has 7,100 islands with more than 120 languages on record, and numerous ethnic cultural groups. The Philippines has been colonized by Spain, China, Britain, and the United States with numerous rebellions on record. After 300 years of colonization, the Katipunan was formed by 27-year-old General Emilio Aguinaldo.

In 1896, the multiple-province coordinated rebellion was prematurely launched when the plan was discovered by the Spaniards.

Katipunan lost and the leaders were exiled to Hong Kong in 1887.

In 1898, on the other side of the world, the Spanish-American war broke out over the brutal suppression of a Cuban rebellion. In that same year, Commodore George Dewey annihilated the Spanish Pacific Fleet in Manila Bay. Gen. Aguinaldo made arrangements with the United States to return to the Philippines and liberated towns south of Manila.

He declared Philippine independence on June 12, 1898, establishing a provisional government and drew the first democratic constitution in Asia. On February 2, 1899, U.S. and Philippine forces skirmished. Two days later, the United States signed the Treaty of Paris, purchasing the Philippines from Spain for a mere $20 million, starting its colonial empire.

The Philippine-U.S. War broke out in 1899. The United States sent 65,000 soldiers to suppress the Filipinos, resulting in the death of 4,200 American soldiers, over 20,00 Filipino combatants, and as many as 200,000 civilians, who died from violence, famine, and disease. (The U.S. toll from the Spanish American Was was around 400.) The 3-year war ended in 1902 with the United States taking over governance of the Commonwealth of the Philippines as one of its territories, along with Hawai‘i, Guam, and Puerto Rico.

From 1902 to 1934, Filipinos were able to come to the United States as “nationals.” They could come and go freely to the United States and in the Philippines. They were exempt from the Immigration Act of 1924 including the National Origins Act and Asian Exclusion Act. The latter limited the number of Asian immigrants to the United States to 3% of the number of people from an Asian country who was already living in the United States based on the 1920 U.S. Census. The percentage was lowered to 2% for the 1980 census.

The United States restricted immigration from southern and eastern Europeans, severely restricted African immigration, and banned Arab and Asian immigration in order “to preserve the ideal of American homogeneity. There was” no limit to Latin American immigration. Filipinos came as “pensionados” (academic scholars), sugar cane plantation workers to replace Chinese and Japanese in Hawai‘i, and seasonal farmworkers and cannery workers. Of note were Filipinos who were heavily recruited to work in Hawai‘i in the sugar cane plantations numbering up to 100,000 to perform brutal low-paying and b a c k- b r e a k i n g work.

Filipinos now spoke their own language and English was a required class in the 1902 U.S. instituted public school system. The Spanish language was no longer required to be learned. I can only surmise that the ability to speak English led many to settle outside traditional Chinatown areas.

Highlights of 1934 and 1946

Dr. Mabalon highlighted the key events and laws that affected Filipino status in the United States.

From “Nationals” to “Aliens”

In 1934, the Tydings-McDuffie Act was passed. Congress promised the Philippines total independence in 10 years. Filipinos who wanted to immigrate were now reclassified from “nationals” to “aliens” with a quota of 50 immigrants per year. They could not become citizens under the 1790 Naturalization Law, which excluded non-whites from becoming citizens and barred land ownership under the Alien Land Laws in Washington and California states. Note that locally, Pio De Cano Sr. sued and won the right to own property based on the fact that

Filipinos had not been “aliens,” but immigration to 100 per year. foreign “nationals.”

Recruited as Scabs WWII Brides & Fiancees 1946 was also a watershed for During World War II, from 1939 to 1945, sugarcane plantation workers. 6,000 U.S. racial sentiments were suspended Filipinos and Filipinas were recruited when the Philippines became a key ally to supplement the labor shortage, when against Japanese imperialism as part of in fact they were to act as “scabs” with the Axis powers. Filipino aliens living the looming strike by the International in the United States were recruited into Longshoreman and Warehousemen segregated U.S. Army Units, the First and Union that included 20,000 Filipinas Second Filipino Infantry Units. 10,737 and Filipinos, locals, and Asian of those who served were granted U.S. immigrants. The newly arrived joined citizenship and GI benefits. Many met the Great Sugar Strike of 1946 to win and married Filipinas in the Philippines union recognition, higher wages, job during their service. The passage of the rights, political freedoms, pensions, 1945 War Brides Act allowed entry of homeownership, and end the white their spouses and children. supremacy and paternalistic cultures of the plantations.

Philippine U.S. Military Service and The 1960s immigration of Reneged GI Benefits professionals and the Philippine The 1934 Ty- government policy advocating for dings-McDuffie Filipinos to work overseas brings us to Act also prom- our sizable population today bringing up ised full GI ben- the question of civic voting power. efits to 200,000 Filipinos in the 2016: Be The Turning Point and Philippines who were recruited Vote on 11-8 and fought under I hope you can understand why the U.S. Armed Filipinos have mixed feelings about Forces of the Far the United States. Many came to work East (USAFFE) and go back home. Our children who and the Phil- are born here are here to stay and we ippine Scouts. fight for civil rights for our children However, in collectively. I find the lower than March 1946, average assessments of Filipino voting racism reared its activity questionable. Filipinos have ugly head and Spanish and Chinese last names. Their the 1946 Rescis- votes can be easily attributed to Latino sion Act was and Asian civic engagement. Case in passed, which point, the Filipino American Political reclassified the Action Group of Washington conducted military service a pilot to review King County voters of Filipinos in USAFFE and Philip- who were identified as Latinos. They pine Scouts as “inactive service.” It took found 300 Filipinos in a 4 hour review three decades of advocacy in the Philip- session. More importantly, loyalty to the pines and the United States to address motherland can now be sustained with this inequity. In 2009, President Obama dual citizenship—you can be both as signed a bill granting said veterans a one U.S. citizen and a Philippine citizen. time payment of $15,000 ($9,000 if they Regardless, the truth is that laws are are living in the Philippines) compensamade by the elected officials and citizens tion, a mere drop in the bucket for the elect said lawmakers. value of the GI Bill. Today, advocacy We all need to elect those leaders who continues for the U.S. immigration and reunification of their family members. are not against us immigrants and chilRetired General Antonio Taguba leads dren of immigrants. October is Filipino the campaign to award Filipino veter- American History Month. We have a ans with the Congressional Gold Medal, choice to make these presidential elecsimilar to the successful efforts for Japa- tions be another turning point. Our call for action is for all of us to make history nese Americans and Puerto Ricans. this November. Be the Turning Point: A Pathway to Citizenship and Reduced Vote this November 8.

Immigration For more information visit http:// On July 2, 1946, the Luce-Celler fanhs-national.org/filam/about/.

Act was passed to grant Filipinos who came before March 1934 access to Maria Batayola is a long time local citizenship through naturalization. The community and equity activist. She Act also gave access to naturalization to is a dedicated member of FANHS Indians and limited Filipino and Indian National and serves as FAPAGOW President.

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 13

14 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

IE ARTS

What Carlos Bulosan started, Patty Enrado finished

By Peter Bacho IE Contributor Carlos Bulosan’s iconic America Is In The Heart begins in the rural Philippines and ends in America with the start of World War II. Patty Enrado, with a clear and confident style, takes the powerful saga of those early Pinoys beyond the war years and to the end of the line.

In A Village in the Fields, Enrado chooses an old Pinoy, Fausto Empleo, and examines his life and the lives of other manongs through the prism of Fausto’s struggles and challenges. His story is credible; it is also familiar— at least to those readers who knew the men of that fabled generation.

In telling this foundational story of Filipino America, Village lacks only the passage of time.

In contrast, America has found a literary/historical niche over the decades, and is required reading in many ethnic studies programs.

In America, Bulosan is the book’s protagonist and narrator, who as a young boy in the then-American Philippines, dreams of an idealized America as described by a Thomasite teacher, Mary Strandon. It is a land where Abraham Lincoln died because he freed the slaves.

An innocent and intrigued Carlos asks, “Abraham Lincoln died for a black person?”

The amazement of the young Bulosan points to the grinding poverty of the Philippine countryside. It also points to the reality of Filipino culture.

In the rural and medieval Philippines of the early 20th Century, peasants were staggered by significant changes to the landlord-tenant relationship, where many landlords, obsessed by tariff-free access to America’s vast market, focused more and more on reducing costs and maximizing profits.

The economic burden of these changes was born by each hacienda’s peasants, but their welfare inevitably became an afterthought to many landlords.

Within this setting, it was also impossible for young (and dark) people like Carlos to imagine the owners of these great and increasingly profitable estates (often mestizos) to die for their darker-skinned peasants.

This was Bulosan’s Philippines.

And so it is no surprise that the young Carlos figured that America must be a significant improvement, this great, meritocratic place, where Lincoln died for a black person. Apparently and unlike in the Philippines, skin color

didn’t matter there, but intelligence, discipline, and hard work did.

Carlos, of course, was wrong, as was Fausto Empleo. And just as Bulosan, the young Fausto and his family were mired in poverty, scratching out a living by planting and harvesting rice.

Early on, he decided there had to be a good life beyond the barrio, beyond the rice fields.

And his ticket out, he concluded, was education, American style.

Despite his father’s objection, Fausto and Benny, his cousin, decide to leave for America. There, the wide-eyed youngsters plan to join four older male cousins already in the promised land.

Like Bulosan, Fausto’s idyllic dreams crumble quickly once he is on American soil. Starting with pervasive anti-Filipino hatred, especially virulent among whites on the West Coast, and the grim setting of Depression-Era America, the choices facing the Manong Generation were few indeed. For the Pinoys of that era, they were forced to live their lives in America’s underbelly—whether it was a flophouse hotel room in Seattle or Los Angeles, or the migratory road leading from backbreaking seasonal work on West Coast farms to the Alaskan canneries—and back again.

Then repeat again the next year. And for years to come.

The one interruption was World War II, when Fausto and many of his peers joined the U.S. Army, serving in the First Filipino Regiment in the Pacific.

In the war against Japan, the loyalty of Filipinos—both in the Philippines and in America—served to reduce white American hostility toward them. But the uptick in race relations would more fully benefit the manongs’ Americanborn children, not the old-timers themselves.

For Fausto, an Army veteran, that meant a return to the farms and the hard life he had lived before the war.

The decades of low pay, backbreaking work, sacrifice, and shrunken dreams made what happened inevitable.

The movement to organize farmworkers took hold in Delano, California in 1965, and Fausto joined the ranks of those Pinoys who walked away from the fields. In the minds of too many Americans, that single event in U.S. labor history is linked to César Chavez, the Chicano labor leader.

But it was a Pinoy, Larry Itliong— the tough-talking, cigar-chomping organizer—who persuaded Filipinos

Standing up for something important is never for the weak.

The story of Fausto Empleo is also the story of the Manong Generation.

Patty Enrado tells it well.

to go on strike. Mexican workers followed the Filipino lead—not the other way around.

Fausto’s loyalty to the union cost him dearly. He loses his house; his wife leaves him. But his loyalty to the union doesn’t waver.

Robert Flor and Patty Enrado read together at Third Place Books in Seward Park on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00 p.m. Flor reads from his poetry book ‘Alaskero Memories’ based on his work in the Alaskan canneries and Enrado will read from her novel ‘A Village in the Fields’ about Filipino American labor organizers in Delano.

In addition a film entitled ‘Delano Manongs: Forgotten Heroes of the United Farm Workers Movement’ will be screened. 5041 Wilson Ave. S. (206) 474-2200. This events repeats on October 21 at 7:00 p.m. at El Centro de la Raza at the Centralia Community Center and on October 22 at 4:00 p.m. at the Filipino Community Hall of Yakima Valley. This is all part of a series of events celebrating Filipino American History Month throughout the state. Go to http://fanhs-national. org/filam/about/ for complete details.

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 15

IE ARTS

Robert Flor Captures Cannery Memories in Poetry

By Joshua Talosig IE Contributor The histories of the Filipino diaspora spread far and wide. Many live across the globe, experiencing lives unique with ties to their identities. In the United States, Filipino Americans have had a long, detailed story that encompasses many years.

Alaskero Memories, a collection of poems by Seattle writer Bob Flor, speaks to one enlightening facet of that ongoing story. A chronicle of his times working at a salmon cannery during the ’60s, Mr. Flor recounts with poignant poeticism of when he and other Filipino men worked these laborious jobs. Themes of identity, opportunity, community, and growth can be found in these poems.

I talked with Mr. Flor about his experiences regarding his fateful summers at the cannery and his writing process for these poems. We at the International Examiner thank him for taking the time to chat with us.

Joshua Talosig: Your writing style is almost novel-like in that much of these poems consist of short sentences.

How do you think your unique prose contributed to the poems’ strength?

Flor: When I initially began writing poetry, I was drawn to free verse. During the late ’60s, I worked on a teachers manual for Seattle Schools where I became Flor familiar with writers including Carlos Bulosan, Vic Pineda, Serafin Syquia and Victorio Velasco. They influenced the temperament of my work.

In studying Filipino American poets years later, I came across Names Above Houses

by Oliver de la Paz, who taught poetry at Bellingham. I was fortunate to get to know him and enrolled in his workshop at Jack Straw where he taught prose poetry. I was also taking playwriting courses about the same time, learning to construct dialogue.

In some ways, these experiences may have blended to influence the style.

Talosig: One of the more sobering poems was when your girlfriend, Linda, broke up with you while you were away to marry someone else. Was it lonely to be disconnected from your life in the Philippines that summer?

Flor: I’ve never lived in the Philippines.

Filipino single men (Manongs) who arrived in Seattle during the ’20s and ’30s concentrated in the International District.

If they married, they moved “uptown” … meaning they typically acquired homes in the Central District. I was born in Seattle and raised in the Central District, which was multiethnic. It was primarily home to the initial immigrant Filipino family but also to Black, Japanese, Chinese, Jewish, and white American populations. We lived side-by-side, attending the same schools and hanging out together. A recent article in The Seattle Times described the real estate practices that limited the ability of ethnic minorities to own homes in some areas of the City. This began slowly changing during the ’60s and s’70s.

I met Linda while attending Seattle University. Her family lived in Lake Forest Park which was like a foreign land to me.

We were engaged and to be truthful, I was too immature. I’m terribly pragmatic and considered fearfully I hadn’t graduated and we didn’t have money. She returned my ring. I considered joining the Marines but my manager at Smith Corona said I was too emotional. He recommended going to Alaska as planned and writing her as she might reconsider. Her letter followed one I wrote. It was disappointing and heartbreaking. After the canning season, I enlisted in the Navy with the agreement they give me a year to graduate.

About two weeks after I completed college at Seattle University, I was on my way to San Francisco and then Pearl Harbor.

Talosig: I particularly enjoyed the imagery, allusions, and metaphors you made with the fish you worked with. In one poem, you describe you and the workers as like bagoong, the fermented sauce made from the fish. Its smell “distinct and unique / ... like us.”

What was your creative process like, recollecting all these images from long ago?

Flor: I wrote a few of the poems in the late 2000s just to recount a few of my experiences on the Filipino crew. I didn’t have a book in mind at the time. Sang Chi and Emily Moberg Robinson at UC Santa Cruz were seeking works for an anthology titled Voices of the Asian American and Pacific Island Experience. I submitted my few poems which they included in their 2012 publication.

I really hadn’t thought much about the works until Poets West called two years later and asked if I’d read on a program at Hing Hay Park with Shin Yu Pai. She’s a very talented local poet and the author of the collection Aux Arcs. She read her poem, “The Iron Chink,” recounting the salmon butchering machine invented to replace Chinese cannery workers. She later invited me to read my poems at On-theBoards where she was curating a program about documentary poetry. Following this, Catalina, my wife, said, “You need a book.” That became the inspiration.

I wrote the poetry to honor the Manongs who helped me complete college. They’d teach me the different cannery jobs and send me to cover their work. They knew I needed money for college and it was their “Alaskero scholarship.” We often take for granted the everyday things around us. ... how food gets on our tables, how and who processes it and what their lives are like.

My poetry was a way to immerse readers in cannery life and provide an experience with the lives of men and women whose labor feeds our nation.

The book’s trajectory follows the cannery work process. It also is a photograph of everyday life in a small fishing town where there were distinct living and working arrangements by ethnicity. The summers spent in King Cove left an unforgettable impression on me and I wanted to respect that memory of people.

Talosig: Were you into poetry already during your summers in Alaska? How did you get into the craft?

Flor: During that time, I was primarily interested in American literature and following a thread with roots in Cooper, Melville, Twain through Fitzgerald and others. I completed a first reading of Moby Dick one summer. But, I also had a fondness for poetry instilled in me by my father, Vincent Flor, who immigrated from Iloilo, P.I. in 1932. He would occasionally read Whitman, Poe, and others at family dinners. I also have to acknowledge the nuns at Immaculate Conception and the brothers at O’Dea for strengthening my introduction to poetry and literature.

Additionally, we lived within walking distance of the Yesler Library, where I received an introduction to many books by some wonderful librarians. These were my important foundations.

I came late to writing poetry. In the late ’90s, a co-worker at Metro and fine poet, David Stallings, would bring work in and ask me to edit it. I wondered if I could write this “stuff” as I put it. I began with a few courses in Experimental College taught by Janee Baugher. I wrote a few poems for submission and they were eventually published. My first poems appeared on online sites such as Tamylfer Mountain Poetry Review and the Seattle P.I. Talosig: Are you still in contact with some of the men you worked with?

Flor: We “the young boys” were mostly in our early 20s while most of the Filipino crews were composed of early immigrants from the ’20s and ’30s.

They came with dreams of education and success but were mostly destined to labor as waiters and busboys, janitors, or agricultural workers. This early Manong generation is dying out and many have passed away.

I still run into a few who were my age at the time. Several still live in the Seattle area like Terry Acena, David Madayag, George Ramos, Ernesto Damien, and Larry Flores. I’ve also spoken with others who worked other canneries like Pio de Cano and John Ragudos.

Talosig: It’s very important for stories like these to be spread, because Filipino American history often goes unacknowledged. Why do you think that is?

Flor: The Philippines hasn’t ever been an important, powerful country and that, in part, plays a role. The United States claimed it as a colony following the Spanish American War for $20 million dollars. Theodore Roosevelt viewed the islands as a strategic Naval base and a means to project American power into the Pacific. Even today, the country lies not far from the Malacca Straits, the major commercial route between the Indian Ocean through the South China Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Other than that, I’m confident the United States at that time and now have little, if any, awareness, thought, or concern about the Filipino people. From a geopolitical sense, Filipinos are low on the totem pole of acknowledgement.

Until recently, Filipino-Americans haven’t told their stories. We rarely appear on stage or screen. It’s also rare for a Filipino play, story, book, or poem

to be read or performed in a theatre. It may be a result of economics where the focus was on careers the promised greater financial stability. It’s not unusual, for example, to find Filipinos in government, engineering, education, and the health sectors. Given the large and growing population, I see a growing number of Pinoys pursuing the arts unlike prior years. I’m encouraged by the efforts of the Filipino American National Historical Society and local arts organizations such as Artist Trust, the Office of Arts and Culture, and 4Culture to support the development of ethnic minority artists including Filipinos.

Talosig: What do you hope this book will mean to the many Filipino Americans who haven’t lived the experience you have?

Flor: I hope Filipino Americans take pride in the contributions of these early pioneers.

I want younger generations to take note of the men and women of that time. They weren’t huge stars or notable people. Rather, they went to work each day doing the hard work that made it possible for Americans throughout the country to focus on their own lives.

These pioneers formed the building blocks of pride in culture, community and in being Pinoy.

I’m very excited about the younger generation of Filipinos who are writers, poets and artists.

In the Pacific Northwest, we’ve been blessed with talented writers such as Michelle Penaloza, Rick Barot, Oliver de la Paz, Geronimo Tagatac, Rebecca MabangloMayor, Emily Lawsin, Donna Miscolta, Peter Bacho and artists like Mimi Nolledo and Romson Bustillo. There are others on their way like Third Andresen, Jen Soriano, Juanita Tamayo Lott, Lisa Silazy, Anis Gisele, Katrina Pestano, Chelsea Staples, Roldy Ablao, and others. I expect them to set high marks for themselves and to continue to present their stories and works about Filipinos in America.

Robert Flor and Patty Enrado read together at Third Place Books in Seward Park on Thursday, October 20 at 7:00 p.m.

Flor reads from his poetry book ‘Alaskero Memories’ based on his work in the Alaskan canneries and Enrado will read from her novel ‘A Village in the Fields’ about Filipino American labor organizers in Delano. In addition a film entitled ‘Delano Manongs: Forgotten Heroes of the United Farm Workers Movement’ will be screened. 5041 Wilson Ave. S. (206) 474-2200. This events repeats on October 21 at 7:00 p.m. at El Centro de la Raza at the Centralia Community Center and on October 22 at 4:00 p.m. at the Filipino Community Hall of Yakima Valley. This is all part of a series of events celebrating Filipino American History Month throughout the state. Go to http://fanhsnational.org/filam/about/ for complete details.

16 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

IE ARTS

Films: TWIST features focus on queer APIs, Mekong a violent flick

By Yayoi L Winfrey IE Contributor Along with a new name—TWIST—The Seattle Gay & Lesbian Film Festival is also showing off several documentaries featuring Asians and Asian Americans.

Out Run is a beautifully photographed Filipino film about the only LGBT political party in the world. Determined to enact laws protecting queers in her country, transgender Bemz Benedito runs for a Congressional seat under the Ang Ladlad Partylist banner. Hoping she can help stop current, legally sanctioned discriminatory practices, she campaigns hard. Alas, the Philippines is a Catholicmajority nation and a hard-sell when it comes to accepting alternative lifestyles. Still, with her team of working-class activists including hair stylists and drag queens, the charismatic Benedito sets out to transform the country.

Outrun

As the first wobbly notes are feebly sung in Weekends, there’s a sense that this movie must be a comedy. After all, the all-gay men’s chorus called G-Voice is clearly singing off key. Remarkably, it turns out that they know they’re bad singers, but enjoy each other’s company so much they gather every weekend Founded in 2003, Ladlad, which means, to rehearse and sing—something they’ve been “come out,” has been struggling for a doing for an unbelievable 10 years.

Congressional voice ever since. Yet, the But as the film unspools, South Korea’s participants, wearing pink shirts and grasping first amateur gay chorus proves to be more pink balloons, are energized and optimistic than just about music. For instance, members they will succeed. In the streets, they stop write original songs based on real-life events; to chat with ordinary citizens attempting to composing poignant lyrics about classicism, pry a vote from them. Alas, not everyone poverty, a friend’s death, angst about being is receptive. One team member, Attorney gay, being alone, or not being loved. Led by a Raymond Alikpala, displays painstaking somewhat reluctant director, G-Voice features restraint as a woman tells him to pray hard that men of varying ages and backgrounds who all God will make him heterosexual. nurse a particular personal issue. Living in a Tears and fears abound among Ladlad’s predominantly Christian country that rejects supporters while their primary opponent, homosexuality as being a sin, the singers an evangelic, spews anti-gay rhetoric. But suffer in indignation over isolation from their Benedito’s team is organized and focused. families. Some have parents that refuse to Targeting hair salons and beauty competitions acknowledge their sexual preferences or, like in smaller towns, they march adjacent to a one member (a doctor) rejected his own gay pink-tinged Manila skyline that appears to orientation until he was well into adulthood. glow with encouragement for their cause.

Like silly teens, the men also discuss their love lives in cringe-worthy personal details. ***

Yet when they perform at the first gay wedding *** held in South Korea and are viciously attacked, Although the testosterone-driven narrative they stand strong and bravely sing anyway.

Operation Mekong is based on a true story, it’s probably fair to say that the real deal *** didn’t involve quite the blatant bloodshed and Strike a Pose is another documentary about public shoot-outs in the streets as portrayed gay men and music, but this time the spotlight in the picture. It all starts when 13 bodies are shines on six of seven former dancers whom discovered with 900,000 methamphetamine Madonna handpicked for her 1990 Blond pills in an area where three countries (Laos, Ambition Tour. Because they were featured so Myanmar, Thailand) meet on the Mekong prominently on stage, the performers became River. Called the Golden Triangle, it’s a haven almost as famous as their celebrated blonde for traffickers who exploit local mountain folks boss. and force them to grow opium.

Among them is Kevin Stea, who is half Soon, China takes the lead by sending in elite Chinese and, according to Wikipedia, was forces—including an intelligence officer and born in Hollywood but attended high school a narcotics detective—to catch the bad guys. and college in Singapore. Although Stea While the smug-faced Fang Xinwu (Eddie shares equal billing with the other five dancers Peng, Rise of the Legend) has a very personal featured in this film, he stands out as one of reason for seeing that a notorious dealer, Naw three who ended up suing Madonna’s company Khar, is put away for good, Captain Gao Gang over the 1991 documentary they made called (Zhang Hanyu) wants the job done right.

Truth or Dare. Based on the 1990 tour, that Besides displaying incredibly film broke barriers by showing a passionate high production value with amazing onscreen kiss between two of the dancers. cinematography, this film also attempts to Obviously, the lawsuit and consequent touch on the plight of impoverished ethnic settlement damaged Stea’s relationship with minority groups living in the hills and Madonna, but not so his career. As a dancer, being prey to tormenting drug cartels. Child choreographer, actor, model and more, Stea soldiers are force fed drugs until they’re so has done quite well since then. Unfortunately, addicted they take them on their own while the same can’t be said about some of his fellow playing Russian roulette with live rounds for dancers who ended up on drugs, or contracting entertainment.

HIV, or never earning enough money to make Ultimately, though, this movie is about a decent living, or even dying like one of the killing—traffickers cruelly killing villagers, original seven did. cops dutifully killing traffickers, traffickers As each man tells his own story of what it vengefully killing cops. Be forewarned, aside was like sharing the stage and a friendship from some light social commentary, this with the legend, it’s apparent that some have movie is mostly about guts and gore. regrets while others have come to terms with themselves 25 years later. Having danced ‘Out Run,’ ‘Weekends,’ and ‘Strike a Pose’ during an incredibly transformational time in screens at TWIST, October 13 to 23. For more musical history and pop culture, they seem information, visit www.threedollarbillcinema. happy they’ve survived long enough to reunite. org/2016. ‘Operation Mekong’ opened September 30 at the Regal Meridian 16.

SAM plans to begin renovation of the Asian Art Museum in 2017

By Andre Stackhouse IE Contributor

where it resides are local and national landmarks. As such, the renovation is designed to preserve the iconic Art Deco The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is façade. continuing to work with LMN Architects According to LMN architect Sam on plans to renovate The Asian Art Museum (AAM) with construction Miller: “One of our over-arching goals estimated to begin in fall of 2017. The is to connect this building to the park.” project is projected to last two years, The sides and back of the building, requiring the closure of the museum until previously visually closed off from 2019. The project’s budget is currently the surrounding park, will now feature $49 million and will be provided by a spacious windows granting wide views mix of private and public funds, though of Volunteer Park. the majority is estimated to come from According to Kimerly Rorschach, private donors. When completed, the SAM’s Director and CEO: “We believe AAM will have a new gallery, education the east side of the museum, the back center, and meeting space, and will have side of the museum, is not especially much of its infrastructure modernized attractive. There have been changes that including having environmental controls haven’t been so happy, and we think we for the first time. A statement in a SAM can make that a lot better, we can create newsletter claims that the renovation better landscaping there, and create a will, “allow us to expand onsite better connection with the park.” conservation care of our collections and The main interior additions will be to give additional emphasis to South a new gallery, a meeting space, and Asian art, a critical area for future education center. All three additions development.” are mainly intended to expand and Conceived in 1933, the AAM was the original building for the SAM and has not been substantially renovated since.

Both the museum and Volunteer Park

our community and visitors for years to come.”

Rendering by LMN Architects

will facilitate improvement on many of the museum’s recurring events, like its popular Saturday University Lecture Series, which will continue during the museum’s two-year closure at Seattle University.

“This renovation and expansion project is crucial for the future of the AAM,” Rorschach said. “The museum’s exhibitions and programming connects to the many cultural traditions and contemporary issues of Asia, helping improve upon existing services and us better understand our region and will allow for more of the museum’s art our rapidly evolving world; our goal is to be displayed at any given time. The to ensure that we can continue to serve meeting space and education center

Less visible will be the many improvements to the museums’ infrastructure, accessibility, and safety.

Chief among these changes will be the addition of air conditioning and humidity control which beyond aiding in the comforts of patrons, will also expand the kinds of art that the museum can host. There will also be a new loading dock and elevator for the exchange of pieces.

Plans for the renovation are to be finalized by the end of 2016 and can be found at seattleartmuseum.org/inspire. In addition to information, the page features an email form that solicits feedback regarding the project. The museum will also hold community meetings at 1:00 p.m. on October 15, November 19, and December 10. The AAM will close on February 27, 2017 and construction will begin in fall of that year. If the project goes according to schedule, AAM will not reopen until 2019. Today, the SAM is home to over 25,000 pieces and is one of the oldest collections of Asian art in the United States.

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 17

IE ARTS

Kishi Bashi brings inspiration in return to Seattle

By Roxanne Ray IE Contributor

my influence on younger musicians, particularly string players,” he said. “I have dedicated a good portion of my time to outreach to kids and also mentoring string players to enjoy playing their instruments.”

Seattle-born musician Kishi Bashi returns on October 18 to perform his new album Sonderlust at the Showbox.

Now, he’s excited to bring these inspirations to his upcoming performance at the Showbox.

“I love playing Seattle, because the crowd has been consistently enthusiastic, real music lovers here,” Ishibashi said. “I look forward to being back in another new form with new songs.”

Kishi Bashi is the stage name of Kaoru Ishibashi, who has always felt the pull of music and was educated at the Berklee College of Music. “Music has always been a part of my life, from early piano lessons, to being a metal head in high school,” to developing his music throughout adulthood, Ishibashi said. “My appetite for music is just like being hungry for dinner.”

Ishibashi describes this new musical material as an exploration of empathy and understanding. “Sonderlust is the desire to connect with the unknown person and to realize that there are other personal universes out there,” he said.

Ishibashi recounts a variety of musical and instrumental influences that have been formative for his own music. “I love Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway, and I try and channel them in an Asian Bob James kind of way,” he said. “I’ve recently acquired a Wurlitzer, and I’ve really gotten into getting better at it so I can showcase it on tour.”

His tours and albums are largely the result of self-motivation and personal initiative, which carries its own challenges. “Self-production can be liberating, because you don’t have anybody to argue with, but it can also be a supremely lonely business,” Ishibashi said.

“Sometimes I like to feed off of other talented people, and I actually enjoy jumping between solo and collaborative work.”

This empathy is aimed at relating to his audience in a musical way. “I channel my heart into the music, but I make it to connect with my fans,” Ishibashi said. “I make my music for everybody.”

Kishi Bashi plays The Showbox (1426 1st Ave.) on Tuesday, October 18 at 7:00 p.m. Go detach from the daily life of being a family positive influence, both parentally and musically, to axs.com for tickets. man and a dad,” Ishibashi said. “However, it on the next generation. “I am definitely aware of totally sucks for those being left behind.”

For musicians, Ishibashi believes that good planning and transparency are key. “I think scheduling time to communicate everything Touring, as well, poses difficulties as well is absolutely important,” he said. “I don’t as being rewarding. “I think the touring I do want my daughter to grow up hating me.” is very fun for me, because it allows me to Rather, it’s important to Ishibashi to be a

Kishi Bashi

18 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

IE COMMUNITY

Beloved Seattle artist Frank S. Fujii passes away at 86

By Ron Chew IE Contributor

Beloved Seattle artist and former teacher Frank S. Fujii passed away on October 3 at his Mercer Island home at the age of 86.

Fujii, a Nisei, was born on January 14, 1930 in Seattle’s Central District. He was the youngest of nine siblings. He attended Maryknoll School and Garfield High School, before enrolling at the University of Washington, where he earned a master of fine arts.

During World War II, he was incarcerated at Tule Lake Camp. He met his wife Michiko Inouye at the University of Washington.

They married in June, 1952. She passed away 1989.

Fujii was a popular former teacher at Franklin and Cleveland High Schools. He later worked in the graphic arts department at Seattle Central Community College for 17 years before retiring in 1989. He also served as affirmative action officer at the College.

Over the years, Fujii was a perennial donor to the Wing Luke Museum’s annual art auction. His art pieces always attracted spirited bidding and sold for a price far above their stated value. An exhibition of his works was featured at the Wing Luke Museum in 1992.

The Museum features a special gallery named in Fujii’s honor—the Frank Fujii Youth Space—on the second floor.

Frank S. Fujii. • Photo courtesy of Ann Fujii-Lindwall

His works typically mixed traditional Japanese images such as brush strokes, kimono and fish with a playful graphic element, revealing Fujii’s strong interest in exploring graphic design.

Fujii was a role model and mentor to countless emerging local artists and designers. Michelle Kumata, Exhibit Director at the Wing Luke Museum, said she met Frank when she was a young artist. “I remember and appreciate him telling me that my art was special,” she said. “It really boosted my confidence and meant so much, especially coming from an established Japanese American artist.

He was a cool dude, talented artist, and generous soul.”

Mayumi Tsutakawa, longtime arts administrator, said Fujii was her art teacher at Franklin High School. She recalled that Fujii, who also coached the school’s basketball team, played Bebop jazz music in the classroom and had many athletes in his class.

“I was not a very good art student,” Tsutakawa said. “When we studied contour drawing, where you draw your right hand, using your left hand, and vice versa, I was dismayed at the blobs left by

the fountain pen we were supposed to use.

Frank told me, ‘Those are good blobs, shows character.’ So he showed me that it was good to be different, and not to try for someone else’s idea of perfection.”

Over the years, Fujii donated his talents to many Asian American organizations, including the Seattle Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League, which used a logo he designed to promote the effort to earn reparations for Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II. The circular logo incorporated an image of barbed wire and a graphic representation of the first, second and third generations. The redress effort, spearheaded by Japanese American activists in Seattle, culminated in the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, signed into law by President Reagan.

“He was known for doing the banners at a lot of political and community non-profit events,” Ann Fujii-Lindwall, his daughter, recalled. “Some people even saved them as keepsakes. It was pretty amazing to stand there and watch him draw these straight lines and brushstrokes. His mother was also a good calligrapher. That’s probably where he got a lot of his artistic talent.”

Fujii is survived by his sister Kinko Nomura, Seattle; two daughters, Ann Fujii-Lindwall (husband Alan Lindwall), Seattle; Susan Yamamoto (husband Gary Yamamoto); and granddaughter Michiko Yamamoto.

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 19

IE NEWS

Our Father Frank Shobo Fujii

By Ann Fujii-Lindwall Special to the IE We all know all the ways my father, Frank Shobo Fujii, contributed to the Seattle community, even with a piece of his art at the recent International Examiner Community Voice Awards event last month. All the “titles” he earned—basketball coach, art teacher, commercial artist, community activist, and leader. But of course, he was a husband and father first.

As I scanned many photos, I saw so many with people at our house on Mercer Island, a home that he and my mother built 51 years ago. They opened our home to so many people and I learned so much at my young age from all their community involvement and connections with some of the elite leaders. First growing up on Beacon Hill on Spencer Street, we were also social with the neighbor kids and my dad would, of course, make his famous one of a kind signs for all of our “social events.” He painted our tricycles with our names, made forts inside the house out of cardboard, and we repaid him by helping him put his silkscreened Christmas cards on the drying racks.

Those were special times.

The long and fun trips to visit my auntie Tomi in Hawthorne, California ... so many summers going to Manhattan Beach and Disneyland. Both Suzie and me would sit in the front seat (my mom rested in the back!) and give my dad cold towels and frozen grapes ... one of his favorite treats. Speaking of treats, he would make us frozen popsicles quite often. We would eat at Dag’s near Franklin High School a lot, and, of course, we thought that was the best! My dad loved his food, going to Three Grand, Hong Kong, Four Seas and becoming regular customers!

I remember when I was fairly young (I was 9 years old when we moved to Mercer Island), when my dad left for work, I would run up to the window in

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Frank S. Fujii. • Photo courtesy of Ann Fujii-Lindwall

my room, and he would stop his car and turn and wave to me. Of course there were times when he forgot, and I would be very sad that day.

Neither Suzie nor I were very artistic, but our dad was always “supportive” and “appreciated” our efforts ... that goes for not being very athletic, too! He taught us about family, and we visited his mother in a nursing home for 10 years. There were also frequent trips to the museum on the weekends: Seattle Center, and Volunteer Park, and others. More recently, Suzie and I were fortunate to spend a lot of time with my dad, getting

him to his appointments and taking care of him on Mercer Island.

I will never regret that, even though we both spent hours—lots of ups and downs—but the bonding was important.

It was a gift to our dad, for all the sacrifices both he and my mom made so we could have the important things in life. And recently at the hospital, to top it all off, there were about three instances where staff thought I was my dad’s wife. At first I took a little offense, but then realized that my dad didn’t look 86, and his voice was always youthful. And that’s how we will all remember him.

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20 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

IE NEWS

Presidential forum focuses on the AAPI Community

By Pinky Gupta IE Contributer

to the AAPI community and share their Whereas Johnson and Stein came out agendas. with their ideas working for the betterment Clinton elaborated on the immigration for AAPIs while speaking with the host The growing population of the Richard Lui from MSNBC, Johnson Asian American and Pacific Islander reforms, education policy, economic focused on criticizing Trump’s views.

(AAPI) community has compelled the plans and loan policies of Hillary Clinton. Stein emphasized ecological issues. presidential candidates to think about He talked about how Asian American Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA), Congressional them and to prepare a roadmap to draw owners of small businesses have generated numbers of job opportunities Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) their votes for their respective parties. and contributed to America’s economy. chairperson, spoke at the forum about The Asian and Pacific Islander Presenting Hillary Clinton’s agenda, the importance of AAPI voters in the Americans Vote (APIAVote) and Asian upcoming presidential election and how American Journalist Association (AAJA) Clinton stated that applying for loans will they have emerged as one of the important hosted a 2016 Presidential Election be easier, and more small businesses will voter blocs.

Forum in Las Vegas, Nevada last August be encouraged to include more women “We are at another historic first as to focus on the AAPI community issues. and minorities in these businesses.

Presidential campaigns make their case The forum featured two presidential While addressing the AAPI attendees directly to Asian American voters. In candidates, Libertarian nominee Gary and viewers, Clinton said that they should the past, AAPIs did not have a voice in Johnson and Green Party nominee Dr. choose a president who takes AAPIs as this democracy,” Chu said. “But today, Jill Stein, as well as Utah’s attorney an integral piece of the American story.

AAPIs are the fastest growing ethnic general Sean Reyes speaking on behalf “You want a president like Hillary demographic in the country and today’s of Republican presidential candidate who sees you as part and parcel of the forum demonstrates the growing political Donald Trump and former President Bill American quilt of diversity,” Clinton impact of the AAPI vote.”

Clinton speaking on behalf of Democratic said. “The metaphor for this election presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. will be walls or bridges. Are we stronger APIA Vote founding member Daphne together or apart?”

Kwok said during the forum, “From The candidates and surrogates Southeast Asia to the Indian subcontinent addressed 3,000 attendees in Caesars Reyes spoke about his own personal to Native Hawaiians, the AAPI Palace hotel, representing 40 experience growing up and tried to clarify organizations, and people at “watch Trump’s recent remarks on Filipinos. He community represents a heritage and parties” in 20 states via live stream of even spoke about the Trump’s support history that spans the globe.”

20 million to more than 50 million by 2060. The rising influence of the AAPI community is evident in the past two election cycles, where the AAPI vote has been an important factor in election outcomes in key battleground states. In many of these states, the AAPI voter population either equaled or exceeded the margin of victory in previous presidential elections.

At the watch party in Seattle, Candace Inagi, development director for the Asian Counseling Referral Services (ACRS), said this forum was an opportunity to increase visibility of Asian Pacific Americans to candidates around the United States.

“We have seen in the process that the candidates refer to the other minority communities but they rarely refer to Asian American communities,” Inagi said. “This is an opportunity to get seen and the candidates at that level should know that we are getting mobilized for November—but it is really not just about the day.”

Inagi noted that the forum is a reflection of deepening work in our community, to build multi-generational the entire event. The forum gave each for legal immigration. He mentioned According to APIAVote, AAPIs civic engagement, vibrant and deep as the party an opportunity to speak directly lowering the taxes on small business are the fastest growing racial group languages the Asian Pacific American owners. He closed with a rap. in the country, expected to grow from community speak.

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 21

AAPI Democracy Summit draws over 2,000

IE ARTS

By Alia Marsha IE Assistant Editor On September 15, over 2,000 people representing various backgrounds gathered at the Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall for the 2016 Asian American and Pacific Islander Democracy Summit hosted by the statewide Asian Pacific Islander Coalition (APIC).

The event was part of the AAPI democracy initiative. The overarching goal as communicated by various speakers on stage all day—including 27 translators—is to get people who can vote to vote.

For more than a decade, the AAPI community has been the fastest-growing racial group in the United States. However, according to a report by the Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS), the AAPI community has the lowest registration rate of all communities of color in Washington state. ACRS says that AAPIs make up over 10 percent of Washington state’s population and 7 percent of electoral vote. Yet only half of eligible voters were registered to vote in 2014, and only 40 percent of them actually voted.

Keynote speaker Martha Choe, who in 2014 left The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation as chief administration officer, said that her parents would have been moved to see such a gathering she described as “a beautiful sight.” In her speech she mentioned that her parents, who immigrated from Korea in 1948, saw voting as the most powerful tool.

“It’s so easy to become cynical and suspicious of our democracy today,” Choe said. “But I will tell you when our communities are organized and speak out on issues, it makes a huge difference to elected officials. Ask any of them who are sitting here. It gets attention and can spur action.”

During the second part of the day, after a series of performances from different AAPI cultures, incumbent Gov. Jay Inslee and his Republican opponent in the upcoming gubernatorial election Bill Bryant met and participated in a candidate forum moderated

by KOMO’s Robert Mak. The forum addressed issues of climate change, raising minimum wage, funding for public schools and immigration. According to the think tank Center for American Progress in 2015, 47 percent of AAPI voters rate immigration as either “the most important” or “one of the most important” issues that needs to be addressed in this election. During the forum, time was provided for translators to turn to their audience and translated every question posed by the moderator and every answer provided by either candidate.

An example of the candidates’ stark differences was their responses to the question of I-1433, an initiative to raise the minimum wage statewide from $9.47 to $13.50 by 2020 that voters will be voting on in November. Gov. Inslee announced his full support for I-1433 and said that cities that want to increase minimum wage further should be allowed to do so.” Bryant, however, disagrees that the minimum wage should be raised at the same rate statewide.

“My only concern is that if we move across Washington state, we realize that there are very different levels of economy and I’m afraid if we take the minimum wage increase to $13.50 all across the state, in

Gov. Jay Inslee and his GOP opponent in the upcoming gubernatorial election Bill Bryant met and participated in a candidate forum moderated by KOMO’s Robert Mak. • Courtesy Photo from ACRS

communities where the cost of living is less than Seattle, we could actually inflict some harm on folks,” said Bryant.

The candidate also answered questions about funding for education differently.

Bryant, who said that fixing the education system so “every kid has an equal chance to get ahead” is his primary reason to run for governor, said that he’s in support of creating a new tax mechanism so that the state takes more responsibility to fund for education and takes some weight off local school districts.

However, he said he’s not in support taking money out of social programs.

Gov. Inslee responded with a list of initiatives and progress made in public education while he has been governor, such as tuition cut in public colleges that first took effect last academic year.

“We’ve put $5.5 billion more money— the largest new investment in the history of this state of Washington while I’ve been governor—we’ve got to continue making that effort because we cannot allow poverty to be destiny. And we cannot allow the Republican party to cut funding for homelessness programs. We cannot allow that and the day before yesterday [Bryant] said he wasn’t even aware of the way we fund homelessness programs. I think we gotta take care of this problem and we intend to do so,” said Gov. Inslee.

Though the message encouraging people to vote was delivered loud, clear, often and in different languages during the event, Pierce County chair of APIC Faaluaina “Lua” Pritchard said that there are other ways to contribute for those unable to vote.

“We don’t exclude you because you are just as important. We know you may not be the one voting, but your family members are and your friends are. Even though you’re not exercising voting, you can help move people

together; you can help push people, educate people,” said Pritchard off-stage.

Tia Moua, a sophomore in high school and representing the Spokane Hmong Association, took the stage to encourage AAPI youth to get involved whiled adorned in traditional colorful Hmong dress that received admiration from attendees.

Moua is a first-generation Hmong American whose family is very much involved with politics and the Hmong community. Her mother was the vice president of the Spokane Hmong Association while her father was recently elected president. As a child, Moua said she would help her mother decorate, perform dances, and give talks during events that the Association hosted.

“I just grew up knowing that I want to give back to the Hmong community that has done so much for me,” Moua said.

Moua was one of the AAPI youths present at the event, and she said that there should be more youth involvement in politics and community events.

“I think we really need to push the younger generations to keep on doing these community events and getting involved, and to vote—all these things. I think that we just need to start encouraging it a lot more especially because our youth right now is starting to get older, they’re at that age where they’re able to get involved in these things,” said Moua.

Pritchard agreed.

“We have to have you [younger folks] step up,” Pritchard said. “We can’t be around for so long. We have to mentor you guys and mold you guys so when we’re gone or when we’re old and can’t do much, you step up and carry the torch. Because this work has to carry on, forever.”

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Arts & Culture

INTERNATIONAL EXAMINER

Professional & Leadership Development

Asia Pacific Cultural Center 4851 So. Tacoma Way Tacoma, WA 98409 Ph: 253-383-3900 Fx: 253-292-1551 faalua@comcast.net www.asiapacificculturalcenter.org Bridging communities and generations through arts, culture, education and business.

Education For more information: Ph: 206-767-8223 Email: info@deniselouie.org Website: www.deniselouie.org Offering home visiting services for children birth to 3 and full & part-day multicultural preschool education for ages 3 to 5 in the International District, Beacon Hill and Rainier Beach.

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Executive Development Institute 310 – 120th Ave NE. Suite A102 Bellevue, WA Ph. 425-467-9365 • Fax: 425-467-1244 Email: edi@ediorg.org • Website: www.ediorg.org EDI offers culturally relevant leadership development programs.

Social & Health Services

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International District Medical & Dental Clinic 720 8th Avenue S, Seattle, WA 98114 ph: 206-788-3700 email: info@ichs.com website: www.ichs.com

We make leadeRS Queen Anne Station, P.O. Box 19888, Seattle, WA 98109 info@naaapseattle.org, www.naaapseattle.org Fostering future leaders through education, networking and community services for Asian American professionals and entrepreneurs.

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Senior Services Horizon House

900 University St Seattle, WA 98101 ph: 206-382-3100 fx: 206-382-3213 marketinginfo@horizonhouse.org www.horizonhouse.org A welcoming community in downtown Seattle, offering seniors vibrant activities, independent or assisted living, and memory care.

Housing Services InterIm Community Development Association 310 Maynard Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104 Ph: 206-624-1802 Services: 601 S King St, Ph: 206-623-5132 Interimicda.org Multilingual community building: housing & parking, housing/ asset counseling, projects, teen leadership and gardening programs.

Senior Services

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Southeast Seattle Senior Center 4655 S. Holly St., Seattle, WA 98118 ph: 206-722-0317 fax: 206-722-2768 kateh@seniorservices.org www.sessc.org Daytime activities center providing activities social services, trips, and community for seniors and South Seattle neighbors. We have weaving, Tai Chi, indoor beach-ball, yoga, dance, seniororiented computer classes, trips to the casino, and serve scratch cooked lunch. Open Monday through Friday, 8:30-4. Our thrift store next door is open Mon-Fri 10-2, Sat 10-4. This sweet center has services and fun for the health and well-being of boomers and beyond. Check us out on Facebook or our website.

Social & Health Services Asian Counseling & Referral Service

3639 Martin Luther King Jr. Way S, Seattle, WA 98144 ph: 206-695-7600 fx: 206-695-7606 events@acrs.org www.acrs.org ACRS offers multilingual, behavioral health and social services to Asian Pacific Americans and other lowincome people in King County.

601 S King St. Seattle, WA 98104 ph: 206-682-1668 website www.apicat.org Address tobacco control and other health justice issues in the Asian American/Pacific Islander communities.

Bellevue Medical & Dental Clinic 1050 140th Avenue NE, Bellevue, WA 98005 ph: 425-373-3000 Shoreline Medical & Dental Clinic 16549 Aurora Avenue N, Shoreline, WA 98133 ph: 206-533-2600 Holly Park Medical & Dental Clinic 3815 S Othello St, Seattle, WA 98118 ph: 206-788-3500 ICHS is a non-profit medical and dental center that provides health care to low income Asian, Pacific Islanders, immigrants and refugees in Washington State.

Fearless Asians for Immigration Reforms (FAIR!) ph: 206-578-1255 Info@ItShouldBeFair.com www.ItShouldBeFair.com

Free and confidential support for undocumented Asians and Pacific Islanders. DACA screenings, financial assistance, legal help, scholarships, DACA renewals, and consultations for service providers. Benefits include: work permit, $$ for school, protection from deportation, driver’s license.

7301 Beacon Ave S Seattle, WA 98108 ph: 206-587-3735 fax: 206-748-0282 www.idicseniorcenter.org info@idicseniorcenter.org IDIC is a nonprofit human services organization that offers wellness and social service programs to Filipinos and API communities.

Kawabe Memorial House 221 18th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144 ph: 206-322-4550 fx: 206-329-3330 connie.devaney@gmail.com We provide affordable, safe, culturally sensitive housing and support services to people aged 62 and older.

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Merchants Parking provides Chinese Information & Service Center 611 S Lane St, Seattle, WA 98104 ph: 206-624-5633 fax: 206-624-5634 info@cisc-seattle.org www.cisc-seattle.org Creating opportunities for Asian immigrants and their families to succeed by helping them make the transition to a new life while keeping later generations in touch with their rich heritage.

Seattle Chinatown/International District Preservation and Development Authority ph: 206-624-8929 fx: 206-467-6376 info@scidpda.org Housing, property management and community development.

convenient and affordable community parking. Transia provides community transportation: para-transit services, shuttle services, and field trips in and out of Chinatown/International District, and South King County.

Organization of Chinese Americans Asian Pacific American Advocates Greater Seattle Chapter P.O. Box 14141 Seattle, WA 98114 www.ocaseattle.org

Legal Services Public Interest Law Group, PLLC 705 Second Avenue, Suite 1000, Seattle WA 98104 Ph: 206-838-1800 Email: info@pilg.org www.pilg.org PILG attorneys Hank Balson, Wendy Chen, and Nancy Chupp provide information, advice, and representation in areas such as employment discrimination, unpaid wages, and other violations of workers’ rights.

Legacy House

803 South Lane Street Seattle, WA 98104 ph: 206-292-5184 fx: 206-838-3057 info@legacyhouse.org www.scidpda.org/programs/legacyhouse.aspx Description of organization/services offered: Assisted Living, Adult Day Services, meal programs for lowincome seniors.

Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs GA Bldg., 210 11th Ave SW, Suite 301A Olympia, WA 98504 ph: (360) 725-5667 www.facebook.com/wacapaa capaa@capaa.wa.gov www.capaa.wa.gov Statewide liaison between government and APA communities.

Monitors and informs the public about legislative issues.

OCA—Greater Seattle Chapter was formed in 1995 and since that time it has been serving the Greater Seattle Chinese and Asian Pacific American community as well as other communities in the Pacific Northwest. It is recognized in the local community for its advocacy of civil and voting rights as well as its sponsorship of community activities and events.

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October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016 — 23

24 — October 5, 2016 – October 19, 2016

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