Why does pan-Asian solidarity matter—especially in a state like Ohio? This question anchored a timely and powerful public panel that brought together scholars, policymakers, legal advocates, and community leaders to reflect on Asian American histories, present challenges, and collective paths forward.

Held on January 15, 2026 and hosted by AWARE Ohio, a newly formed nonprofit dedicated to uplifting Asian American voices across the state, the event marked the organization’s first major public educational forum.

Moderated by Dr. Hongmei Li, the President of AWARE Ohio, the forum had panelists from diverse professional backgrounds with a common commitment to justice and representation. Tiffany Huang, a sociologist specializing in race and immigration highlighted how Asian Americans are often absent from national and local conversations on race—particularly in school curricula. Participants reflected on how most Americans learn little beyond brief mentions of the Chinese Exclusion Act or Japanese American incarceration, leaving generations without a clear understanding of Asian American histories, struggles, or contributions. The absence of this knowledge, panelists emphasized, weakens both community self-understanding and broader public empathy.

From the perspective of state policymaking, Anita Somani, a sitting Ohio legislator described her journey from healthcare advocacy into elected office, shaped by moments when civil liberties and reproductive rights were under threat. She underscored that Asian Americans in Ohio make up a relatively small percentage of the population, which makes collective action across ethnic, national, and generational lines essential. Divided, she warned, leaves communities vulnerable; solidarity creates political visibility and power.

Carlen Zhang-D’Souza, a civil rights attorney from the ACLU of Ohio, placed current challenges in historical context, drawing clear parallels between past injustices—such as exclusionary immigration laws—and contemporary legislation that disproportionately affects immigrants and communities of color. Education, she argued, is not only about honoring the past but about recognizing recurring patterns of scapegoating and fear-mongering before they escalate into systemic harm. She provided useful tips on how individuals can make a difference. For example, she makes a habit of storing the phone numbers of all her representatives—at the city, state, and federal levels—in her phone so that she can contact them at least once a week.

Across the discussion, a consistent message emerged: pan-Asian solidarity does not erase differences—it builds strength through shared experiences. In Ohio, where Asian Americans are frequently underrepresented and misunderstood, unity is both a necessity and an opportunity. Panelists emphasized that meaningful progress depends on working not only within Asian American communities but also in coalition with Black, LGBTQ+, immigrant, disability, and other marginalized groups.

Ultimately, the panel served as a call to action. By learning from history, amplifying community stories, and standing together across lines of difference, Asian Americans—and their allies—can help shape a more just and inclusive future for Ohio.

“We are stronger when we act together than when we act alone.”  Tiffany Huang

“History doesn’t just repeat itself—it rhymes. And education helps us recognize the warning signs.” Carlen Zhang-D’Souza

“We have to build on those shared experiences. We have to recognize that regardless of whether, you know, we came from India or Vietnam or China or Japan, we've all got to work together to create a collective history…Divided we fall, united we thrive. United, we're going to be able to get through this.” House Representative Anita Somani

Despite being only months old, AWARE Ohio has already played a visible role in statewide advocacy, youth leadership development, and public education with its youth advisory board and library exhibition. This panel demonstrated the organization’s commitment to fostering dialogue, civic engagement, and cross-community coalition building. The founding board of directors of the organization are Cherice Chan, Yuepeng Deng, Louisa Ha, Hongmei Li, Yuxing Wang, Yanfen Yang and all the board members were present at the meeting.