Detroit, Michigan – August 16, 2024 – As the sun rises this morning, the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) proudly launches its 15th National Empowerment Conference (NEC) and 2024 Civic Leadership Forum at The Atheneum in Detroit, Michigan. Co-hosted by NaFFAA Michigan, this landmark event gathers Filipino American leaders, policymakers, and advocates from across the nation for two days of strategic dialogue, visionary keynotes, and community building.

Today, Detroit transforms into the epicenter of a movement dedicated to advancing Filipino American representation and galvanizing civic engagement. This conference marks a pivotal moment in NaFFAA’s history, underscoring the organization’s unwavering commitment to empowering Filipino Americans and elevating their voices on the national stage.

A Day Dedicated to Civic Leadership

Day one of the conference is squarely focused on the Civic Leadership Forum, an initiative designed to cultivate and enhance the civic participation and leadership skills of Filipino Americans. The day begins with a dynamic networking breakfast, setting the stage for meaningful connections and the exchange of transformative ideas. Mariela Fletcher, NaFFAA National President, will open the event with powerful inaugural remarks, emphasizing the profound significance of this gathering. “Today, we stand at the intersection of reflection and action,” Fletcher declares. “This conference is not just an event—it is the continuation of our mission to champion the rights, representation, and recognition of Filipino Americans across the nation.”

Senator Stephanie Chang, the first Asian American woman elected to the Michigan legislature, will follow with a welcoming address that underscores the essential role of civic participation and leadership within the Filipino American community. Her words will serve as a guiding light for the discussions and initiatives that will unfold over the next two days.

Visionary Leaders and Influential Voices

Today’s Civic Leadership Forum is further elevated by the presence of pioneering leaders who have made indelible marks in public office, philanthropy, and civic engagement. Keynote speaker Sue Van, President and CEO of The Wallace H. Coulter Foundation, will deliver a transformative address on the power of philanthropy in empowering underrepresented communities. Under Van’s leadership, the Coulter Foundation has become the largest funder of civic engagement initiatives for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders (AANHPI), and American Indian and Alaskan Natives (AIAN). Her insights will delve into the “Coulter Process,” a strategic approach that has driven significant advancements in voter participation, representation, and community resilience. Van’s remarks will illuminate how targeted philanthropy can catalyze lasting change, empowering communities to take control of their futures.

Nicholas Turton, Director of Communications for AAPI Data, will complement Van’s keynote with a session titled “Data is Power: AAPI Data Present Insights.” Turton will explore the indispensable role of data in empowering the AAPI community, showcasing how accurate and comprehensive data collection can influence public policy, drive social change, and amplify AAPI voices. His experience in strategic communications will provide attendees with actionable strategies to leverage data in advocacy efforts, fostering greater equity and inclusion within their communities.

Further enriching today’s lineup, the conversation on “The Future of Civic Engagement” will feature Larcy Douglas, Executive Director of Common Power, and Rebeka Islam, Executive Director of APIA Vote Michigan. Both leaders are at the forefront of transforming civic participation within the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. Their work in building sustainable civic engagement structures and amplifying the collective voices of diverse communities positions them as critical leaders in ensuring AAPI communities are not just participants but leaders in the electoral process and public discourse.

The “Run for Office Now” panel brings together trailblazers like New York State Representative Steven Raga, Michigan State Representative Mai Xiong, and Mayor Ron Falconi of Brunswick. These leaders have shattered barriers and made history, their journeys to public office standing as powerful testaments to the impact of diverse representation in government. Their insights will inspire all who aspire to follow in their footsteps, offering a blueprint for inclusive policymaking and community leadership.

Highlights of the Day

The morning will feature the Filipino Member Organizations Panel on Civic Engagement Efforts, showcasing the collaborative strategies of key community leaders:

• Marie Cunning, National President, FPACC

• Angelica Cortez, Founder, LEAD Filipino

• Manelita “Bong” Dayon, RN, North Central Region Vice President, PNAA
  

• Jasmine Rivera, Co-Executive Director for Rising Voices

  
  

These leaders will discuss how their organizations are driving civic participation, building networks, and setting future goals to strengthen the Filipino American community’s voice in public life.

The afternoon sessions will include “Dollars and Cents: Campaign Fundraising 101,” led by Aisha Farooqi and Eric Salcedo. This session will provide practical insights into effective fundraising strategies, essential for any successful campaign.

A Defining Moment for Filipino American Leadership

As today’s events unfold, the significance of this Civic Leadership Forum becomes undeniably clear. Wilmar Suan, NaFFAA Great Lakes Region President, reflects on the occasion: “We are witnessing a historic moment in Michigan, as Filipino American leaders from across the nation unite to collaborate, strategize, and build the future of our community.”

Chris Rivera, NaFFAA National Vice President and NEC Chair, highlights the meticulous preparation that has gone into making this conference a reality: “Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of this conference inspires and empowers. This event is the culmination of months of planning, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future of our community.”

Ryan Namata, Vice President of Operations, emphasizes the collective power of the Filipino American community: “When Filipino Americans come together, we are a force for change. This gathering is a powerful reminder that united, we can make a difference. We are not just participants in this conference; we are architects of a brighter future.”

Amy Risvold, NaFFAA Michigan President, echoes this sentiment: “Today’s conference is a celebration of our collective achievements and a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to shaping the future. We are honored to host such a distinguished gathering of leaders and advocates dedicated to advancing the Filipino American community.”

To close the Civic Leadership Forum, Hon. Mayor Ron Falconi of Brunswick, Ohio, will deliver a keynote address, sharing his experiences and insights on leadership and community service.

As the conference begins this morning, the energy and sense of purpose among attendees are palpable. Over the next two days, participants will engage in rigorous discussions, forge new connections, and depart with a renewed sense of direction. This is more than just an event—it is a defining chapter in the ongoing narrative of Filipino American empowerment and leadership.

For the full agenda and lineup of speakers, please visit NaFFAA NEC 2024 Website.