Being Asian American: Then and Now, Exploring Our Identity and Experiences

Sunday, February 22nd, 2026, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm, at The World’s Borough Bookshop

Where did the term “Asian American” come from, and what does it mean for us today? Have you ever wondered where you belong,  how you fit within the label “Asian American”, or felt pressured by the model minority stereotype? Together, we’ll learn about the political history of the Asian American label and explore how we understand ourselves and our sense of belonging. This gathering explores the reality that Asian Americans are not a monolith. 

We will reflect on our personal and collective identities and honor the richness of our immigration histories and diverse cultural backgrounds from across the Asian diaspora.

We are excited to foster a space for experience-sharing, community-building, and, of course, breaking bread together!

Collaborators and Organizers

The New York Coalition for Asian American Mental Health (NYCAAMH) strives to improve the quality of mental health care services in Asian American communities throughout the New York metropolitan area. Our mission is to address the unmet mental health care needs and service disparities of the Asian American population through advocacy, community service, professional development, and collaboration with government and local service providers.

The World’s Borough Book Shop

Here are some words from our partner, The World’s Borough Book Shop, about who they are.

“We are a bookshop that celebrates and only sells BIPOC books. Our shelves are dedicated to amplifying diversity and inclusivity of BIPOC writers. Queens is one of the most diverse places in the world, with over 130 languages spoken in just one borough. However, despite its diversity, there are very few bookstores around, leaving many areas as book deserts. Our mission is to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone to discover, read, and celebrate diverse literature. By offering a vast selection of BIPOC books, we aim to uplift the voices and stories of underrepresented communities, providing a space for them to connect and empower one another.”

Join us!

We invite you to join NYCAAMH for this exciting event. Connect with like-minded folks for beverages, snacks, and conversations about the history of the Asian American identity and how it shapes our experiences and the world around us.

Please RSVP by clicking here to register through this form. We encourage you to sign up by 2/15/26, so that we can honor your food practices.