The Center for Asian Americans in Action (Center for A3) formed in May 2021 after a group of Asian American community leaders saw a need to strengthen the policy advocacy capacity of community-based organizations in Orange County, California. At the time, the surge of pandemic-related, anti-Asian attacks and racist incidents overwhelmed many organizations who were already on the frontlines providing services to Asian American community members. These leaders saw an opportunity to create a coordinated policy strategy and response to many of the issues impacting underserved communities, including health equity, anti-Asian hate, and ethnic studies. As a result, the Center for A3 was founded to focus on building a policy infrastructure that elevates the voices and stories of Asian Americans in Orange County.

Vision

The Center for Asian Americans in Action believes systems can and must be transformed for Asian American communities and other communities of color to thrive. We know that policy solutions are more equitable, effective, and sustainable when Asian Americans, working in partnership with other impacted communities, are actively engaged throughout the development and implementation of public policies. We envision a future where Asian Americans can live free from discrimination and violence, and are valued for their resiliency and innovation.  

Mission

The Center for Asian Americans in Action (Center for A3) conducts policy analysis, engages in policy advocacy, and strengthens the policy capacity of community organizations to elevate the power and influence of Asian Americans in Orange County, California and beyond. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization fiscally sponsored by the Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA). The Center for A3 is a sister organization of Asian Americans in Action (A3), a 501(c)(4) organization.