November 2, 2024 Philadelphia, PA – A vibrant gathering of Southeast Asian community leaders and activists convened in South Philadelphia for a rally titled “Southeast Asian Community Leaders Forum.” The event, hosted by the Philadelphia Cambodian American business community and the DNC AAPI caucus Chair, drew over 100 attendees from across the Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community, demonstrating the power and unity of this diverse group.
This rally, aimed at energizing voters ahead of the upcoming election, featured several high-ranking federal officials who spoke passionately about the importance of electing Kamala Harris and Tim Walz as President and Vice President.
Councilmember Nina Ahmad, At Large, spoke at the rally, emphasizing the importance of voting and urging the community to stand together against the threats posed by Donald Trump to immigrant communities. She drew parallels to the historical injustices faced by Japanese Americans during World War II, highlighting the dangers of Trump’s policies on deportation and denaturalization. She also emphasized the importance of voting for all levels of government, from Senators to state representatives.
The Honorable Dilawar Syed, (participating in a personal capacity), delivered a speech outlining Kamala Harris’s policy plans, which include addressing high prices, strengthening the Affordable Care Act, and providing affordable housing options. Syed, the highest-ranking Muslim American in the federal government, expressed his belief that Kamala Harris is a leader who respects minority communities and will work tirelessly for their well-being.
The Honorable Keo Chea, (participating in a personal capacity), also participated in the rally, engaging in a thoughtful discussion with fellow attendees about the experiences and challenges facing the Southeast Asian community in the United States.
The Honorable Nani A. Coloretti, (participating in a personal capacity), currently the highest-ranking Filipino American in the federal government, spoke about the importance of electing a president who listens to the community and seeks common ground.
The Honorable Erika Moritsugu, (participating in a personal capacity) also attended the rally. She emphasized the importance of this election, calling for the community to stand together for a better future. She also shared her personal experience visiting the Cambodian community in Philadelphia in 2016 and expressed her appreciation for the community’s progress in the years since.
The Honorable Julie Su, (participating in a personal capacity), spoke at the rally, highlighting the importance of this election for the immigrant community. She stated that Kamala Harris is a leader who understands their stories and will work to create a better America for them. She also reminded attendees that this election will be close, requiring their collective effort to secure victory.
This rally showcased the solidarity and strength of the Southeast Asian community in Philadelphia as they work together to support Kamala Harris and Tim Walz for President and Vice President, advocating for a brighter future for all AANHPI Americans.
