Deck:

As a first-year member of the leadership team, Aditi Jha shares the background of the Edina Asian American Alliance (EAAA), why she is committed to the organization, and how they make a difference in the community by allowing an exchange of perspectives and experiences across generations. "EAAA stands out as one of the few organizations that genuinely protects its student voice, ensuring that students, parents, and community members have equal power in decision-making and organization. Oftentimes, students are infantilized in leadership positions, but EAAA makes me feel like my voice is valued and respected."

The Edina Asian American Alliance (EAAA) is a grassroots coalition of students, parents, and community members, united by the shared mission of advocating for and supporting inclusion and equity within Edina. The community organization hosts annual events honoring celebrations such as Diwali and Lunar New Year to increase awareness about and celebrate the diverse Asian cultures within the city, while also partnering with the City of Edina and Edina Public Schools to further equity from a policy standpoint as well.

 

“EAAA’s strength is highlighted through our grassroots work and intersections,” founding board member Kelly Condit-Shrestha said. “We are a pan-ethnic, multiracial, inter-generational coalition of students, parents, and broader community committed to the values of diversity and inclusion through multilevel work, in the city, school, and county, that highlights our Asian American community in relation and solidarity with our friends and neighbors.”

 

In their policy work, EAAA participates on the District Equity Advisory Committee (DEAC), advises EPS as a cultural resource, and has quarterly meetings with EPS superintendent Dr. Stacie Stanley. To further unify the community, EAAA uplifts small businesses and partner organizations through its social media and email out-shares, liaising with other city organizations including the Legislative Action Committee, Multicultural Advisory Committee, and the Parent Leadership Council to collaborate on shared goals. EAAA has been nominated for Edina’s Human Rights & Relations Commission’s annual Tom Oye Award, was featured in the City of Edina’s Hometown Heroes recognition, and received the 2024 Mayor’s Service to Youth Commendation.

 

The culmination of EAAA's efforts will be on full display at the third annual AAPI Month Festival on May 17th. Running from 12-5 p.m., the festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of Asian American culture, featuring captivating performances, food trucks, inspiring guest speakers, and many engaging activities for all ages, including face-painting and crafts.

 

“One of my favorite things about the festival is that it has become an important, annual touchstone for community empowerment and coming together,” Condit-Shrestha said.

The AAPI Month Festival is a great opportunity for the entire Edina community to come together, learn, and celebrate the richness and diversity of Asian American culture. Join the Edina Asian American Alliance on May 17th and be a part of this powerful movement towards inclusion, equity, and community empowerment. For more information visit www.edinaasianamericanalliance.org and be sure to follow EAAA on social media for updates and details about the festival.

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