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TPAC

Our Past �Present �& Future

Solidarity among us, awareness in the community around us, and equity for all of us.

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Formed January 2023

TPAC Board Members

Julia Cheng �(she/her)

Jennifer Lien �(she/her)

Pakou Ly�(she/her)

Julie Kim �(she/her)

Viann �Nguyen-�Feng�(she/her)

Kim Nordin�(she/her)

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Who We Are

A collective of committed individuals in the Twin Ports that are raising awareness of and advocating for the APIDA community.

APIDA

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American

Encompasses 43 Pan-Ethnic Countries.

(Desi)

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About TPAC

At TPAC, we cultivate a thriving, inclusive space where Asian Pacific Islander Desi Americans in the Twin Ports region can connect, celebrate culture, and advocate for meaningful change. Through vibrant community gatherings, cultural education, and active advocacy, we amplify APIDA voices, foster belonging, and create opportunities for collective growth.

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Nonprofit Status Achieved�December 2024

TPAC received non-profit status in December 2024.

In the coming year, the Board and key stakeholders will be focusing on strategic planning, a sustainable funding model, and building capacity to best serve our community.

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Our Story: May 2020

In 2020, TPAC was conceived out of a �social women’s group that was meeting �to eat and socialize. The pandemic �sparked anti-Asian hate and fear among �our community. We knew we had to do something…

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Feb 2021

March 2021

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Vigil in Duluth for Atlanta Spa Shootings - 8 people killed, 6 of whom were Asian Women

March 2021

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Twin Ports APIDA

Collective (TPAC)is founded April 2021.

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2021 Duluth Art �Institute Exhibit

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Screenshot from PBS North’s Intersections program on TPAC

Watch our video to learn more about the Art Exhibit and hear some of our stories and experiences.

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In June 2022, we participated in a four-week guided strategic planning as part of a class at The College of St. Scholastica with professors and consultants Toni Pearson and Bob Hartl.

We emerged with a focus on relationships within and outside of our APIDA community.

Organizational Clarity �& Sustainability

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In September 2022, we held our first annual TPAC Retreat for members to help us develop our vision and how we want to live out our mission.

Mission & Values

Mission: To build solidarity among us, awareness in the community around us, and equity for all of us.

Values: Embracing differences and dismantling systems of oppression.

Inclusion

Diversity

Equity

Awareness

Leadership

Solidarity

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A place to look inward for renewal and fellowship

A peaceful sanctuary to embrace our shared cultural heritage and to rest in each other’s care

A place for understanding ourselves and others

A flourishing garden for growing and cultivating understanding about APIDA history & experiences

A place for expanding foundations and developing capacities

A busy workshop to build a better future for APIDA and for the Twin Ports

A place for welcoming everyone

An inviting gateway for engaging the APIDA community and interacting with the Twin Ports community at large

A place for projecting our power outward

A vibrant platform for empowerment, amplifying our voices, celebrating our accomplishments

A home for a united APIDA community.

TPAC Vision

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Currently, TPAC has over 180 members, comprised of APIDA people living in the Twin Ports and many allies.

Current TPAC Members

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Dragon Boat �Festival

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Member Visioning Retreats

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Harvest Moon

Student Dinners

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Lunar New Year

Potluck Celebrations

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TPAC in the Boundary Waters

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TPAC Monthly Breakfasts

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Bringing our Mission & Vision to Life�Through Partnerships & Outreach

  • Outreach to UMD & CSS Asian Students
  • Presentations at U of MN Cultural Health Conference, UMD Summit on Equity, Race & Ethnicity, UW-Superior, UMD University For Seniors, The College of St. Scholastica, City of Duluth & St Louis County staff
  • Sponsorships of the Minnesota Film Festival and League of Women Voters
  • Supporting the Hmong New Year Celebration
  • Coalition of Asian American Leaders listening tour
  • Participation in the Duluth Police Department Racial Bias Audit, Education Equity (ISD 709), Welcoming Community (Northspan)

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What’s Next for TPAC?

  • Focus on building a sustainable strategic plan and

funding model.

  • Build our organizational capacity to serve our members.
  • Strengthening our community through outreach, communications, and education.
  • Deepen our solidarity and strengthen our connections with BIPOC communities.

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What can you do to support TPAC?

  • Educate yourself on APIDA history, current events, and other ways our communities are being impacted
  • Advocate for issues on all levels that impact our people
  • Reach out to your APIDA neighbors, co-workers, friends, etc. and let them know you’re here for them
  • Become a donor
  • Invite us to speak, share our stories, get involved
  • Talk to your children
  • Allow us to have a voice in this community - representation

Join us in building a stronger, more connected future - where our heritage is honored, our stories are heard, �and our community thrives together.

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Website: TwinPortsAPIDACollective.org

Email: TwinPortsAPIDACollective@gmail.com

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

Join the Mailing List:

Contact us if you’re interested in:

  • Getting involved as ally or active member
  • Know of an opportunity to share awareness and education
  • Have a skill you want to share
  • Questions, concerns, or ideas
  • Supporting our mission financially