Asians and Pacific Islanders with Disabilities Holds Statewide Conference in Pasadena

 

The Asians and Pacific Islanders with Disabilities of California’s fifth statewide conference held March 18 and 19 at Pasadena’s Westin Hotel served as an opportunity to discover the many social services available within their respective communities.

With more than 30 exhibitors showcasing their services to participants, workshops included mental health disparities, autism, occupational therapy, health care and the Affordable Care Act, civil rights in employment and transportation, technology access, financial issues, special education, and outreach to the community.

“(It was) a special opportunity for them to find out how to better access mainstream services,” said APIDC Chair and co-founder Patricia Kinaga. “It’s an opportunity for everyone who shares the same vision of improving services, and striving for creating an environment for people with disabilities. We are one big family.”

Pasadena Vice Mayor and City Councilmember Gene Masuda was also in attendance, kicking off with the event with ceremonial tea, featuring he and Miss Wheelchair California Foundation owner Jennifer Kumiyama, who was crowned in 2010.

“The goal is to improve the quality of life of all persons with disabilities, focus on strength, celebrating successes, and being open to opportunities,” Masuda said.

APIDC’s first conference took place in 2001, and was the first convening of physical/mental health service providers, elected officials, organizations, educators, families, and consumers in the disabled community. More than 400 people were attendance at this year’s event.

The event happens every three to five years throughout California.

“Asian Americans are always the last to sort of catch up,” said Peter Wong, APIDC Research Director.   Now we are being included, asking more questions, learning about access to services and rights, to improve our quality of life.”

The two-day event hosted by the non-profit also happened to fall on the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“One thing that binds us all together is the common struggle. It’s our shared story, across all generations,” said Lillibeth Navarro, Executive Director of Communities Actively Living Independent & Free, and a speaker at the conference.

“Lolas and Lolos, those with disabilities,” Navarro said.  “We all have close cultural ties; we bring to the table our families and friends, and our people are very persevering.”