Asians and Pacific Islanders With Disabilities of California (APIDC) was created in 1999 as an informal coalition of individuals, community-based organizations, government agencies, parent organizations, and corporate executives who shared a common vision of wanting to address the specific needs of APIs with disabilities. Our first goal was to convene a two day statewide conference of consumers, families, and representatives from within and outside the API community to meet, share resources, identify information and service gaps, and formulate strategies on formulating solutions. Among the conference highlights was a panel featuring APIs with disabilities who were employed in various private and public positions, including elected officials and corporate executives. The conference culminated in a resolution to convene future conferences. APDIC has since sponsored statewide conferences in Oakland, Orange County, and Long Beach.
The conferences have also highlighted the need for supporting young adults with disabilities who have transitioned to college or are graduating from college. As a result, we’ve launched a special annual program called the Youth Leadership Institute (YLI). At YLI, undergrad and grad students with disabilities from throughout and outside of California participate in leadership skills training workshops convened by professionals in the legal, corporate, communications, higher education, government (including the EEOC), political, media, health and well-being, and community services sectors. Some of our YLI graduates have transitioned into staff positions with APIDC.