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About NCVA
Founded in 1986, the National Congress of Vietnamese Americans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community advocacy organization working to advance the cause of Vietnamese Americans in a plural but united America – e pluribus unum – by participating actively and fully as civic minded citizens engaged in the areas of education, culture and civil liberties.


SPONSORS

NCVA eREPORTER - March 1, 2005

In this NCVA eReporter:

Events

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

JOBS/INTERNSHIPS

TIPS/RESOURCES

NEWS

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 EVENTS

HOPE FOR TOMORROW BENEFIT

Get together at

 CAFE ASIA - Rosslyn
1550 Wilson Blvd.
Arlington, VA 22209
703-741-0870

Sunday, March 6, 2005
6:00 - 11:00pm

 FREE ADMISSION

WHA’s Mission:
To provide health care, dental care, and other professional services to the underserved in our global community.

A percentage of all proceeds from foods, beverages and auctions to benefit VAMA World Health Ambassador Program Relief Mission to Cambodia

* Complimentary Appetizers
* Live/Silent Auctions
* Raffle Drawings: IPod Shuffle, Weekend Getaway to B&B, and many more....
* Caricature Drawings
* Daffodil *Flower of Hope* Sale
* Live Musician - Favorite Tunes from the 80's
* DJ Music

Hosted by: National Congress of Vietnamese Americans & Vietnamese American Medical Association

Sponsored by: Cafe Asia and Galerie Brigitte

Contact:
www.whausa.org
info@whausa.com

(http://www.ncvaonline.org/archive/prj_WHA_Cambodia.shtml)

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ARLINGTON: HEROES, HISTORY & HAMBURGERS

Sunday, March 13, 2005 @ 7pm PBS WETA Channel 26, Washington DC region

NCVA Board members AnhThu Lu and Nguyen Ngoc Bich are featured in this history of Arlington County, Virginia as they share the history of the Vietnamese American community in this region.

WETA's 80-minute tribute to Arlington County features archival footage, interviews with residents and insight from historians Kathryn Holt Springston, Sara Collins and Arlington County historic preservation coordinator Michael Levanthal. The program documents the history of Arlington starting with life on the land 10,000 years ago and concluding in recent times with a look at the county's diversity.

The program shifts to Arlington in the 1970s and the arrival of the Metro. Many neighborhoods experienced change during this time. Clarendon, which had been a shopping hub, was torn apart by the construction. Vietnamese store owners saw opportunity in the lowered lease rates and settled in Clarendon – which became known as Little Saigon.

(http://www.weta.org/arlington/about.html)

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NATIONAL CONGRESS OF VIETNAMESE AMERICANS

invites you to a free GRANTSMANSHIP WORKSHOP

Open to all members of the community and nonprofit organizations who are interested in learning more about the basics of grant writing.

Presenter: Christine Hyland, CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive)

Saturday, March 19, 2005
9:00 – 11:00 AM

6245 Leesburg Pike, Suite 300
Falls Church, VA 22044

Direction: (The office is located in a 5-story red brick building near Sears.)

West on Route 7
Traveling west on Route 7 (Leesburg Pike), it is the first large building on the left after you pass Sleepy Hollow Road.  If you reach Seven Corners, you went too far.

East on Route 7
Traveling east on Route 7 (Leesburg Pike), pass Seven Corners, after Mobile gas station, the first large building on your right. Turn in the parking lot.

RSVP is recommended by calling 877-592-4140 or visiting www.ncvaonline.org/workshop031905reg.htm.

Supported by Center for Business Planning and Development and Business Development Assistance Group

Funded by a grant from Southeast Asian Resource Action Center

(www.ncvaonline.org/archive/workshop031905.shtml)

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NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE EDUCATION AND ADVANCEMENT OF CAMBODIAN, LAOTIAN, AND VIETNAMESE AMERICANS (NAFEA)

25th ANNUAL CONFERENCE

"THIRTY YEARS OF TRANSFORMATIONS: UNDERSTANDING THE NEEDS OF SOUTHEAST ASIAN AMERICANS AND REFUGEES"

APRIL 21 - 23, 2005
SEATAC HILTON HOTEL
SEATTLE, WA

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
* Phouang Sixiengmay-Hamilton: (360) 725-6152; phamilton@ospi.wednet.edu
* Rithy Uong: rithyuong@lkh.lowell.k2.ma.us

REGISTRATION AND PRESENTATION PROPOSAL FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT
http://www.searac.org/nafeaconf2005info.html

PRE-REGISTRATION DEADLINE: APRIL 1, 2005
PRESENTATION PROPOSAL DEADLINE: MARCH 9, 2005

UNDERSTANDING THE NEEDS OF SOUTHEAST ASIAN AMERICANS
As the 30th anniversary of the first wave of Southeast Asian Refugees in the United States, this year's conference theme of "30 Years of Transformation: Understanding the needs of SE Asian Americans and Refugees" will address issues, challenges and opportunities facing Southeast Asian Americans today.  The conference focuses on providing the necessary training and information to those whose leadership will influence policy makers, educators, and service providers working with the Southeast Asian population.

CONFERENCE OVERVIEW
Vietnamese, Cambodian, Lao and Hmong are among the special population served by refugee organizations across the states.  Within these language groups are students whose challenges are both linguistic and academic and whose parents are not actively involved in the education of their children. Especially troublesome are the economic, social, and political contexts that make difficult our attempts to address differences and oppressions in schools and society. The 25th Annual Association for the Education and Advancement of Cambodian, Laotian, and Vietnamese Americans Conference on understanding the needs of Southeast Asians will offer rare opportunities to exchange ideas, develop resources, build networks, and explore possibilities for new directions in preparation to bridge the connection with a diverse group of educators, parents, students, and social workers who share commitments and priorities.

This conference will offer strands on Education, Community Development, Social and Cultural Issues that are critical to supporting both the learning environments and parental and community involvement.  Not only will this conference focus on Southeast Asian Americans, but will also offer strands for service providers to understand the needs of all refugee populations.  Participants will hear from parents and students regarding barriers they face within the community/school to reach their full potential and to reap full economic and social benefits.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS
* Cross-Cultural Exchange
* United States Department of Education Updates
* Preparing Educators to Address Homophobia and Heterosexism in Schools
* Refugee Updates

CALL FOR PROPOSALS AND REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Proposals are solicited on all topics regarding education, community development, and health and social services. Three types of proposals are solicited: workshops, panel discussions, and paper presentations. Descriptions of the featured themes, workshop and paper sessions, Registration information, and procedures to submit a proposal are available at http://www.searac.org/nafeaconf2005info.html

(http://www.searac.org/nafeaconf2005info.html)

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NAVASA'S 2005 NATIONAL CONFERENCE

In honor of NAVASA's 10th Anniversary, this year's event will be held in the DC Metropolitan area:

Location: Hilton McLean Tyson's Corner

Dates: July 15 & 16, 2005

Theme: "Empowering the Community through Giving"

Conference Goals
* To reflect and explore truths about "Giving" in Vietnamese American and ethnic communities
* To inspire and empower practicing "Giving" - "Everybody gives"
* To recognize and challenge nonprofit leaders setting and practicing higher standards of excellence
* To acknowledge the next generation of "social change philanthropists" and "Dan Than Fellows"

Target Audience
* Board, staff, and volunteers in the nonprofit sector
* Social entrepreneurs and fundraisers
* Government agencies, foundations, and corporations
* Students, interns, fellows, professors, and researchers in the nonprofit sector
* 200 attendees for conference workshops and 600 for recognition banquet

This year's conference will focus on "Empowering the Community through Giving", in which NAVASA promotes an "everybody gives" philosophy.  The two-day conference will feature training workshops targeting current and future nonprofit sector employees.  It will conclude with a recognition banquet where three "past givers" will be recognized and ten "future social change philanthropists" will be acknowledged.

In reflection of this year's important conference theme, NAVASA calls on organizations for partnership and friends and colleagues for support as we visit the concept of giving which is not limited to financial contribution but also time, expertise, connections, and emotional and spiritual support. Please consider how you too can give of your resources to help make this year's conference an unparalleled success!

PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDAR to attend our conference, and join NAVASA in celebrating 10 years of supporting Vietnamese American community-based organizations.

(www.navasa.org)

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 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

CALL FOR ENTRIES – SHIFTING GEARS

"Shifting Gears", a national juried exhibit for young artists with disabilities (living in the U.S.), ages 16-25 sponsored by VSA arts & Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Postmarked deadline: Friday, July 15, 2005
15 Finalists.  $60,000 in cash awards.  No entry fee.

All applicants will be notified by Friday, August 26, 2005.

For the fourth year, VSA arts & Volkswagen of America, Inc. are pleased to launch a call for entries to identify promising young artists with disabilities.  Fifteen (15) finalists will be awarded a total of $60,000 in cash awards that is distributed as follows: $20,000 grand prize, $10,000 first award, $6,000 second award, and 12 awards of excellence in the amount of $2,000.  Finalists will be honored at an awards ceremony on Capitol Hill during late September 2005, and their artwork will be displayed in a nation-wide touring exhibit that debuts at the Smithsonian during October 2005. To learn more about the past awardees, visit:

http://www.vsarts.org/prebuilt/showcase/gallery/exhibits/vw/2004/index.html
and
http://www.vsarts.org/showcase/exhibits/vw/2003/index.html

This year's theme, "Shifting Gears", challenges challenges artists to reflect on a pivotal moment or event in their life that led them to a greater understanding of themselves in relation to their art and/ or their disability.  Artwork may illustrate actual aspects of the moment or event such as the environment,  physical manifestations, or personal discoveries.  Abstract work that relates to the artists feelings or emotions is also encouraged. Work might also reflect the artist's experience of living with a disability and its role in shaping or transforming their life.

Applicants are asked to present evidence that will best exemplify the extent and quality of their accomplishment. The jury will be looking for the development of original ideas in the work submitted - imagination, competence, and the skillful use of materials. Art must be an original work that has been completed in the last three (3) years. Eligible media include: paintings and drawings (oil, watercolor, acrylic, pencil or charcoal), fine art prints (lithographs, etching, intaglio, or woodcuts), photography, computer generated prints and two-dimensional mixed media. Artwork should not exceed 60 inches in either direction. For additional information and to download an application, please visit:

http://www.vsarts.org/x267.xml

Alternative formats of the application are available upon request.
Inquiries should be directed to:

VSA arts & Volkswagen of America, Inc.
PO Box 33699
Washington, DC 20033-3699
Phone 800.933.8721 x3877
Fax 202.737.0725
TTY 202.737.0645
Email: voa@vsarts.org

VSA arts is an international nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith. VSA arts is creating a society where people with disabilities can learn through, participate in, and enjoy the arts. VSA arts programs are successful avenues for nurturing talents and launching professional careers. In support of its mission, VSA arts sponsors exhibitions for emerging artists with disabilities that raise awareness of their artistic contributions. www.vsarts.org

(http://www.vsarts.org/x267.xml)

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CIRCLE COMMUNITY RESEARCH GRANTS

The Center for Information Research on Community Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) invites teams of researchers under the age of 18 to apply for the Community Youth-Led Research program.

Teams of five students or more must assemble to decide on a vital community issue they wish to research and pitch it to CIRCLE. Groups may have an adult supervisor, and should align themselves with a community or nonprofit organization to manage funding.

Grant awards range from $5,000 to $10,000. The deadline for application is March 31. For more information, visit CIRCLE online or download the RFP in pdf format.

(http://www.civicyouth.org/)

(http://www.civicyouth.org/PopUps/YLR_RFP05.pdf)

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DUPONT SUPPORTS COMPANY COMMUNITIES

DuPont Community Involvement Program

DuPont is committed to improving the quality of life and enhancing the vitality of the communities in which the company operates throughout the world by supporting organizations that address social progress, economic success, and environmental excellence. Areas of support include educational programs, arts and culture, environmental initiatives, health and human service organizations, and civic and community activities. Grants are primarily made to programs in DuPont's headquarters community of Wilmington, DE and other communities where the company has a major presence. (A list of company facilities is available by selecting "DuPont Worldwide" under "DuPont Overview" on the company's website.) Applications are accepted throughout the year from nonprofit organizations in company communities. The DuPont Office of Education also supports education programs through a separate application process.

(http://www1.dupont.com/NASApp/dupontglobal/corp/index.jsp?page=/content/US/en_US/social/outreach/index.html)

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FUNDS FOR THE GLBT COMMUNITY

The Arcus Foundation

The Arcus Foundation seeks to contribute to a pluralistic society that celebrates diversity and dignity, invests in youth and justice, and promotes tolerance and compassion. The Foundation gives special emphasis to programs and organizations that recognize that members of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender (GLBT) community deserve to be welcomed and celebrated. The Arcus National Fund supports efforts with national scope and impact to improve the quality of life of the GLBT community nationwide. Areas of special interest include social equity, public awareness and understanding, health and safety, and scientific inquiry. The Foundation also provides support to improve the quality of life in its home community of Southwestern Michigan, improve the quality of life of the GLBT community throughout Michigan, and conservation efforts that promote the survival of the Great Apes. The next submission deadline for letters of inquiry is April 1, 2005. Nonprofit organizations applying for funds must have an Equal Employment Opportunity Policy in place.

(http://www.arcusfoundation.org/)

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SUPPORT FOR FAMILY FARMS

Farm Aid

The mission of Farm Aid is to keep family farmers on their land. Farm Aid supports organizations that work to maintain a family farm system of agriculture and that promote solutions to the challenges facing rural communities. Grants are awarded in the following general categories: farm resources, including hotlines, training, and assistance programs for family farms; farm action, such as educational campaigns and outreach regarding the benefits of family farm produced foods; food systems, including creating new markets for family farm produced food; and farm policy at the state, regional and national level to create a family farm focused food system. Nonprofit organizations throughout the U.S. are eligible to apply. Proposals must be submitted no later than August 31st to be considered in this year¹s grant round.

(http://www.farmaid.org/)

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FUJIFILM SUPPORTS COMPANY COMMUNITIES

Fujifilm Corporate Giving Program

The goal of the Fujifilm Corporate Giving Program is to enhance the quality of life in the communities where company employees live and work. (Major facilities are located in California, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, and Texas.) Contributions are concentrated in the areas of the environment, education, arts and culture, and health and human services. Nonprofit organizations in communities with company facilities are eligible to apply. Applications are accepted throughout the year. Fujifilm also makes product donations to educators and educational institutions throughout the U.S. through its PhotoPro Product Donation Program, Products for Learning, and QuickSnaps For Learning programs.

(http://www.fujifilm.com/JSP/fuji/epartners/AboutGiving.jsp)

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FOCUS ON PROGRAMS SERVING THE NEEDY

First Data Western Union Foundation

The First Data Western Union Foundation supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and selected regions internationally that improve and enhance the lives of individuals, families and communities most in need. In the U.S., Colorado, Florida, Nebraska, New York and Texas, where First Data's employees live and work, are priority funding regions for the Foundation. Outside of the United States, China, India, Mexico, Russia and the Ukraine are priority regions. However, grant requests from other states and countries are accepted and will be approved or denied based upon a program's ability to serve extremely needy and vulnerable individuals with very limited avenues of assistance. Grants are provided for educational, health, and human services programs, especially in support of initiatives that address literacy, healthcare for the uninsured, poverty alleviation, language barriers and cultural adjustment. The next application deadline is June 1, 2005.

(http://www.firstdatawesternunion.org/)

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FUNDING FOR NATIONAL YOUTH AND SCIENTIFIC EDUCATION PROGRAMS

American Honda Foundation

The American Honda Foundation supports projects in the areas of youth and scientific education. The Foundation makes grants to K-12 and higher education institutions, vocational or trade schools, scholarship and fellowship programs, scientific and education-related nonprofit organizations, national youth educational or scientific programs, national educational radio or television stations, nationally distributed and aired films, movies, film strips, slides and/or short subjects concerning youth and/or scientific education, and a variety of other programs focused on youth or science education. Nonprofit organizations with projects that are national in scope are eligible to apply. The next application deadline is May 1, 2005.

(http://corporate.honda.com/america/philanthropy.aspx?id=ahf)

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2006 JOYCE AWARDS

Funded by the Joyce Foundation of Chicago, the Joyce Awards support projects that advance the creation and production of works by minority artists in dance, music, theater, and visual arts. Organizations must be located in Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, or St. Paul/Minneapolis. Letters of inquiry are due April 1, 2005.

(http://www.joycefdn.org/)

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DIVERSITY DEVELOPMENT FUND SUPPORTS MINORITY ARTISTS

Independent Television Services seeks talented minority producers to develop projects for public television. The Fund supports minority artists in the research and development phase of their project to tell their stories and reach audiences often overlooked by conventional programming. The application deadline is April 1, 2005.

(http://www.itvs.org/producers/)

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YOSHIYAMA AWARD ONLINE NOMINATION PROCESS NOW OPEN

The Hitachi Foundation Yoshiyama Award recognizes high school seniors who have distinguished themselves through extensive service and leadership in their communities. The Award is given annually to ten high school seniors from throughout the U.S. Nominations are accepted from anyone in the U.S. associated with the community endeavors of high school students and are due by April 1, 2005.

(http://www.hitachifoundation.org/yoshiyama/)

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 JOBS/INTERNSHIPS

For Immediate Release

February 24, 2005

Contact: OCA National Office
oca@ocanatl.org
Telephone: 202-223-5500

OCA ANNOUNCES KFC ESSAY CONTEST

The Organization of Chinese Americans, a national civil rights organization with over 80 chapters and affiliates across the country, is pleased to announce that applications are being accepted for the OCA-KFC National Essay Contest. Three winners will be selected by a national committee. With sponsorship from KFC, this year’s awards are: $1000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $300 for third place.

Deadline: All materials must be postmarked on or before April 11, 2005. All Asian Pacific American students between the grades 9-12 are eligible.

Essay Question:
“Your United States Senator has asked you to suggest to him/her an idea for a bill pertaining to Asian Americans and civil rights. What would you like to propose to your Senator and why?”

Application:
* Applications may also be found online at www.ocanatl.org.
* Please complete and submit the application form.
* Submit essay in English, typed, double-spaced, approximately 800 to 1,000 words on 8 1/2" x 11" white paper.
* Send 5 copies. Please place name, address, and phone number on all pages.
* Photocopied applications are accepted.

OCA recommends that the student keep a copy of the application for his or her records. Please address your envelope to:

OCA-KFC 2005 Essay Contest
1001 Connecticut Avenue, NW #601
Washington, DC 20036

Judging Criteria
* Theme and Content 50% - relevance and insight into the essay topic, validity of ideas, and thoroughness of presentation
* Organization and Development 20% - clear and logical development of essay
* Grammar and Mechanics 20% Style 10% - effectiveness and flow of writing.

About KFC Corporation: Based in Louisville, Kentucky, KFC is the world's most popular chicken restaurant chain, specializing in Original Recipe®, Extra Crispy™, Twister® and Colonel's Crispy Strips® chicken with homestyle sides. KFC has more than 11,000 restaurants in more than 80 countries and territories around the world.

For more information on KFC Corporation, please visit www.kfc.com.

For more information on the essay contest and application, interested students may go to OCA’s website at www.ocanatl.org.

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 AFL-CIO UNION ORGANIZER

National Openings Available

The AFL-CIO Organizing Institute is a paid job training corps and placement program for people who want to fight for the rights of workers, immigrants, women & people of color. The Organizing Institute was founded in 1989, to increase the scale and success of union organizing and train the next generation of union organizers. Since its inception, the Organizing Institute has produced over 20,000 graduates. Graduates of our training program are placed in permanent full time jobs as union organizers. These newly trained organizers are on the cutting edge of some of the most important labor battles of the last decade.

Training: Applicants are first invited to participate in a 3-day training. The training is an intensive weekend course that teaches the basics of campaign tactics and strategy to potential organizers and assesses participant skills. Housing and food are provided.

After the 3-day training, selected applicants go on to a paid, 14-day orientation and then a three-month field training program on a union organizing campaign, during which they learn union-building skills firsthand. The three-month field training includes a $450 weekly salary, housing, transportation and health insurance. Candidates must be able to travel and relocate for program placement.

Job Placement: Trainees who successfully complete the training program are recommended by the Institute to be hired as union organizers by local and national unions. Placement rates for graduates are better than 95 percent. Annual starting pay ranges from $23,000 to $32,000, with full benefits.

Qualifications: Strong commitments to social and economic justice, as well as openness to working with people of various races, ethnicities, religions and sexual orientations are critical qualifications. Excellent communication skills is a must. Participants need to be people oriented, enthusiastic, energetic, flexible and willing to work long hours on an unpredictable schedule. A college degree is not required. Previous union experience is not necessary. Volunteerism or activism is a plus!

To Apply: Please send cover letter & resume to medavis@aflcio.org with job # DC5-- in subject line. In your cover letter please answer the following questions: Why do you want to become a union organizer?  What has your role been in social justice or community work? You must have a driver's license, be wiling to travel and relocate.

For more information go to www.organize.aflcio.org

Women, people of color & bilingual speakers encouraged to apply.

Changing Our World Begins at Work

Become a Union Organizer!

Tanzila 'Taz' Ahmed
Director
South Asian American Voting Youth
www.saavy.org

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 TIPS/RESOURCES

HAUSER CENTER FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS OFFERS WORKING PAPERS SERIES

Hauser Center Working Papers

The Hauser Center for Nonprofit Organizations, part of the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, offers a series of working papers, available online, to share works-in-progress written by Hauser Center scholars and researchers. Working paper number 25, Organization Development for Social Change by L. David Brown, Jane G. Covey, and Mark Leach, examines how organization development concepts and tools can be used to solve problems and foster constructive change at the societal level. Working paper number 26, Effective Foundation Boards: The Importance of Roles by Christine W. Letts, examines the importance of the roles of foundation board members as individuals and as a collective. Visit the above website to access these papers, or any of the others in the series.

(http://www.ksg.harvard.edu/hauser/publications/working_papers/workingpaperlist.htm)

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 NEWS

February 21, 2005

Weekend of events attracts hundreds
850 STUDENTS ATTEND ASIAN-AMERICAN WORKSHIPS, SPEECHES

By Uri Friedman
The Daily Pennsylvanian

Approximately 850 Asian-Pacific American students from over 120 East Coast colleges convened at Penn this weekend, and amid workshops, speeches, comedy shows and parties they kept one major concept in mind: power.

The students congregated at the University for the 28th Annual East Coast Asian American Student Union Conference, which is hosted by a different college every year, and is the largest gathering of Asian-Pacific American students in the United States.

Before introducing conference keynote speaker and MTV news correspondent SuChin Pak on Saturday night, Penn ECAASU co-Chairman and College senior Brian Redondo looked out at the audience and asked, "Do you all feel like you have power?"

He was alluding to an event that morning in which Christina Lagdameo, one of the board members of the National Asian Pacific American Woman's Forum, told students to stand up and say "I have power."

"Power is such a key theme," Redondo said. "Asian Americans often grow up feeling confused because they are not represented here and they are not represented there and that's when their voices often become silent."

The conference featured 70 individual workshops cent-ered around three themes -- awareness, tangible change and personal empowerment.

Redondo said that the three central themes were designed to help students become "aware of the issues that are important, come up with specific solutions and action plans and then embrace their own identity as Asian Americans and use that to become effective leaders."

According to Penn ECAASU co-Chairwoman and College and Wharton senior Karen Kim, one of the major issues discussed over the course of the weekend was identity and the experience of being a first-generation American with immigrant parents.

The Dec. 26 tsunami, as well as a New York City radio station song making light of the disaster's victims, were also hot topics.

One awareness workshop featured national bestselling author Helie Lee, who documented her family's war stories in Korea and chronicled her rescue of family members from North Korea.

In a workshop entitled "Biculturalism," Lee told students how, as a teenager growing up in the Los Angeles Valley, she tried desperately to shun her heritage and assimilate into Caucasian culture.

Once she entered the professional world, though, Lee said, "I had been running away from my family, my culture and my face, and I was tired from running. I said, 'I'm going to face my greatest fear in life -- to be Asian.'"

College sophomore Sean Kramar said he identified with Lee's talk because he is "hapa," or half-Asian.

In reference to Lee's exhortation to students to ask the older generations about their personal history, Kramar said, "My grandpa has always been this old Korean guy I respect, but now I want to ask him about the Korean war."

While raising awareness, the conference was also intended to give students ideas about how to effect change in their respective universities.

Lagdameo told students about how, as a student at the University of Maryland, she ordered fortune cookies for a dinner with the administration that held the message "Asian American Studies now" to get such an academic program on the road to being implemented.

Kim said that this year's conference differed from past conferences mainly in its emphasis on networking among students and between students and activists.

To further this goal, Kim and her fellow organizers randomly assigned students to small student-led peer groups that met twice to discuss pertinent issues and to reflect upon the other events.

"Many students when they came to Penn didn't know each other," Kim said. "It was cool to see them leaving with friendships."

The weekend's events culminated with Pak's address on Saturday night.

Kim said that the question-and-answer session following the address -- during which students brought up issues such as tokenism, the "model minority" myth and biculturalism -- reflected the success of the conference.

"They were drawing [on] the things they had been thinking about during the day. We were making them think," she said.

(http://www.dailypennsylvanian.com/vnews/display.v/ART/2005/02/21/42198dc6d87fb)

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February 23, 2005

WORK, SMART POLITICS MADE AMERICAN DREAM COME TRUE

Esther Wu
Dallas News

Everyone has his or her own definition of the American dream. But before some immigrants can dream, they must start a new life in an adopted country, learn a second language, and accept jobs at the bottom of the employment ladder.

And that is exactly what Hubert Vo did before his American dream came true.

On Jan. 11, after a bitter election battle, Mr. Vo took the oath of office to become a member of the Texas House of Representatives. The Houston-area businessman's election is not only the culmination of his aspirations, it also has become a political benchmark.

"This was my dream for a long time," Mr. Vo said Tuesday. "My father was active in government and in politics in [South] Vietnam. He took me to different regions where I got to see firsthand how the political process worked. When I enrolled in the university, I decided to study economics and politics."

At the time, Vietnam was embroiled in a civil war, and Mr. Vo's father was serving in the South Vietnamese navy. Shortly before the fall of Saigon, Mr. Vo and his family left their homeland and relocated to Texas.

In the United States, Mr. Vo said, he had to put his political aspirations on hold. "I came to this country with little more than the clothes I wore," he said.

To support his family, Mr. Vo worked a variety of jobs, from busboy to convenience store clerk. He attended the University of Houston during the day and worked as a steel worker at night. He became a machinist while earning a mechanical engineering degree. After graduating, he opened a computer business.

In 1995, Mr. Vo decided to diversify his business and acquired his first investment property. He now owns an office complex and shopping center and manages several apartment complexes in Alief, a community just west of Houston where he has lived for more than 20 years.

"After moving to America, I shifted the focus of my studies to concentrate on developing my business career, but I always remembered my foundation of politics and economics," Mr. Vo said.

When fellow Asian-American Gordon Quan was elected to the Houston City Council, Mr. Vo decided to make a bid for the state Legislature. In a surprise upset, he narrowly won in his first attempt for public office.

His opponent, Rep. Talmadge Heflin, the Republican incumbent and chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, challenged Mr. Vo's victory, alleging voter fraud.

The challenge prompted voters throughout Texas to take action. Web sites popped up to talk about this upstart Asian Democrat who upset the Republican political machine. Asian-American groups organized petitions to stop Mr. Heflin's challenge.

Asian-Americans organized bus caravans to the Capitol to watch Mr. Vo be sworn into office on Jan. 11.

Mr. Heflin withdrew his challenge in early February, after an investigation led by state Rep. Will Hartnett, R-Dallas, proved that Mr. Vo won the election by at least 16 votes.

Every election is important, but this battle is significant for several reasons, said Daphne Kwok, executive director of the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies.

"First, it shows that every vote counts," she said. "And it shows that registering new voters and getting them to the polls makes a difference. Had Mr. Vo not registered all the new Vietnamese and APA voters for the election, the race would most likely have been over on Nov. 2, with the incumbent winning.

"Candidates cannot and should not underestimate the voting strength of the APA community. We can be the swing vote, and that determines the ultimate outcome of a race," Ms. Kwok said.

Mr. Vo is taking a more pragmatic approach to his win, saying this is simply his way of giving back to the community.

"When my family and I came to the United States, we were welcomed," he said. "We were provided with opportunities. In return ... we worked hard. Now is the time to give back.

"My life has been my American dream."

E-mail ewu@dallasnews.com

(http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/localnews/columnists/all/stories/022405dnmetwu.cb0.html)

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ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT SETTLEMENT

February 22, 2005

Dear Student Representative:

We write to request your assistance in spreading the word about the landmark class action discrimination lawsuit against Abercrombie, on behalf of people of color and women.  Members of your organization may be Class members affected by the lawsuit, or may have friends who are. By informing your group members of the lawsuit -- in a meeting, newsletter, email, blog, etc. -- you can help ensure that justice is served in this case.

As you may know, the class action against Abercrombie (including Abercrombie & Fitch, abercrombie kids, and Hollister) recently settled, creating two substantial benefits for people of color and women.  First, Abercrombie must pay $40 million to Latino, African American, Asian American, and female applicants and employees.  Second, Abercrombie must institute a system of policies to recruit, hire, and promote people of color and women, and to guard against future discrimination.

We have made great strides as a nation to eradicate race and gender discrimination.  Unfortunately, it still persists in many parts of corporate America.  Thanks to the courage of the original nine plaintiffs who stepped forward, there will be one less company implementing discriminatory policies and practices.  It is now up to us to ensure that people affected by Abercrombie's discrimination learn about the settlement and seek compensation by submitting a claim form. This will help hold the company accountable for its actions, and serve as a warning to other companies of the cost of violating America's civil rights laws.

Class members must file a Claim Form to be included in the settlement. Class members must contact the Claims Administrator at www.abercrombieclaims.com or 1-866-854-4175 to request a Claim Form or to get more information.

As campus representatives and leaders, you have the power to reach many of these people.  This case also provides a great opportunity to increase public awareness about race and gender discrimination issues that still affect young people today.

Enclosed are materials providing more details about the lawsuit and settlement, as well as strategies for getting the word out:  (A) Summary of the Lawsuit, (B) Descriptions of the Named Plaintiffs' Experiences, (C) Abercrombie's Alleged Discriminatory Practices, (D) Descriptions of the Legal Organizations, (E) Strategies for Using the Action Kit, and (F) a one-page flyer regarding the claims process.

If you have any questions or would like to request the electronic version of the Action Kit, you may contact Minah Park at mpark@apalc.org or (213) 977-7500, ext. 220.

In Solidarity,
The Plaintiffs' Legal Team
Gonzalez, et al. v. Abercrombie & Fitch

(www.abercrombieclaimes.com)

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February 23, 2005

CANADA TO ACCEPT BOAT PEOPLE
Bending immigration rules allows group of stateless Vietnamese to leave Philippines

By Campbell Clark
The Globe and Mail

OTTAWA — Canada will bend its immigration rules to take in about 200 Vietnamese boat people who have remained stateless in the Philippines, decades after fleeing their native country. No longer considered refugees under United Nations rules because they are not in danger in the Philippines, about 2,000 people remain without official status as a lingering reminder of the massive exodus from Vietnam.

They arrived after a 1989 deadline for an international resettlement agreement -- having fled persecution by the Communist authorities in Vietnam -- and have lived in the Philippines without residency status or the legal right to work.

They often earn money as unlicensed street vendors and are in constant flight from police.

Now, those who have close relatives in Canada -- parents, grandparents, siblings or children -- and who pass security checks, will be able to come here under a special measure, Immigration Minister Joe Volpe said last night. About 200 people are expected to accept the offer.

"It might be a bit more, it might be a little bit less," Mr. Volpe said. "We will fast-track them so that we can accommodate them within the year."

Canada probably will create a special category of family-class immigrants, since they will not be categorized as refugees, Mr. Volpe said.

He said that accepting the group will not place an undue burden on the immigration system and would allow speedy reunification of families, as well as alleviate a long-standing concern.

"It gives us an opportunity to do something really good and close the page on what was a very sorry and sad tale in that part of the world."

Canada's move is part of a growing international effort to resolve the issue of the displaced Vietnamese.

Australia and Norway agreed to resettle some of the people -- Norway's Parliament passed legislation in December to accept 98.

The United States agreed to work toward the resettlement of others.

Vietnamese Canadian groups recently pressed Ottawa to take about 500 people, and made their case at hearings before a Commons committee last week.

New Democrat MP Bill Siksay raised the issue in the Commons on Friday.

"The number that we have asked for is approximately 500," said Tu-Anh Takacs of the group Save our Stateless Viet Phi.

"The United States will take the majority, so we anticipate approximately 500 will be left behind.

"They are stateless. They have no rights to work and to integrate into the [Philippine] society," Ms. Takacs said.

"Most of them rely on selling in the black market or door to door. If they can bribe the police into allowing them to sell in the market, then they're lucky. If they can't, every time they see an officer they have to run."

(http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20050223.wxrefugees23/BNStory/International/)

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February 27, 2005

NEW PUSH FOR VIETNAMESE GARDEN
ORGANIZERS AIM TO RAISE $1 MILLION, BREAK GROUND NEXT YEAR

By Mike Antonucci
Mercury News

The next big push for the long-stalled plan to create a Vietnamese garden and cultural center in San Jose starts Monday.

That's when the first major fundraising event to raise $1 million or more in donations will take place. The organizer, the Viet Heritage Society, estimates it needs that amount, in combination with an expected $1 million from the city, to fund the first stage of the project and break ground next year.

The fundraiser is set for 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the San Jose Museum of Art. Tickets are $125 at the door; call (408) 394-0864 to check on availability.

The Viet Heritage Society (www.vietheritagesociety.org) was formed in 2003, largely as the result of efforts by businessman Henry Le (Lee's Sandwiches).

Le, who had served on the board of the previous group planning the garden, says city officials encouraged him to recruit more people from the Vietnamese community to jump-start the project, which has been discussed since the 1980s.

A group formed relatively quickly, drawing heavily on individuals with prominent professional reputations and strong business backgrounds. It evolved into the Viet Heritage Society, which has a 15-member board of directors headed by cardiologist Ngai Nguyen as chairman and Le as president.

Each has pledged to raise or contribute at least $10,000, says Thao Dang, the society's treasurer and the vice president of marketing for the Century 21 Alpha real estate firm.

Other board members include entrepreneur Duc Trong Ngo, who is serving as vice president, and Khoa D. Do, a partner in the Greenberg Traurig law firm, who is the society's secretary.

The first phase of the project, which will be built in Kelley Park, is a garden that will be constructed in traditional Vietnamese design. It will include small replicas of landmark historical structures in Vietnam, such as the Heavenly Lady Pagoda.

Phase 2 will be the construction of a museum and exhibition hall. The cost of that stage of the project will depend in part on its timetable and has been estimated at $3 million to $5 million. Katey Nguyen, executive director of the Viet Heritage Society, says the work is most likely to start in 2009.

Nguyen's organization is in the process of finalizing an operating agreement with city administrators, subject to approval by the city council.

Contact Mike Antonucci at mantonucci@mercurynews.com or (408) 920-5690.

(http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/living/11005821.htm)

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February 28, 2005

LETTER TO SECRETARY OF STATE CONDOLEEZZA RICE ON RELIGIOUS FREEDOM IN VIETNAM

Vietnam: Action Needed Now to End Religious Persecution
Vietnam Blacklisted as One of the Worst Violators of Religious Rights

New York –The U.S. needs to spell out specific actions that Vietnam should take to improve its dismal religious rights record, Human Rights Watch said today in an open letter to U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. The U.S. is currently engaged in talks with Vietnam over its designation as one of the worst violators of religious rights in the world.

Last September the U.S. State Department designated Vietnam as a "Country of Particular Concern" (CPC) for its systematic and egregious abuse of religious freedom under the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act. Consultations on religious freedom between the U.S. and Vietnam are slated to end on March 15, 2005. Religious repression in Vietnam was highlighted in the State Department’s own annual human right report, which was released today.

"Despite a few well-timed goodwill gestures, such as the recent release of several religious prisoners, Vietnam has in all other respects continued its exceptionally repressive policies," said Brad Adams, Asia Director of Human Rights Watch. "Vietnam is notorious for persecuting and imprisoning believers of religions who attempt to peacefully and independently practice their faith."

The Vietnamese government imposes strict controls over religious organizations and treats leaders of unauthorized religious groups with intense suspicion, branding many of them as subversives. Targeted in particular are ethnic minority Christians, Mennonites, and members of the Unified Buddhist Church of Vietnam (UBCV).

Ethnic Hmong Christians in the northwest provinces have been beaten, detained and pressured by local authorities to renounce their religion and cease religious gatherings. At least ten Hmong Christians remain in detention in Lai Chau and Ha Giang provinces. Recently the military presence in several villages in Lai Chau has increased recently, causing many Hmong Christians to flee from their homes.

In the Central Highlands, the government has increased its repression of Montagnard Christians, particularly those thought to be following "Dega Protestantism." This is a form of evangelical Christianity, banned by the Vietnamese government, which links it to the Montagnard movement for return of ancestral lands, religious freedom and self-rule.

Since 2001 more than 180 Montagnard Christians – not only Dega church activists, but pastors, house church leaders and Bible teachers as well - have been arrested and sentenced to prison, many on charges that they are violent separatists using their religion to "sow divisions among the people" and "undermine state and party unity."  There is no evidence that the Dega church movement has ever advocated violence. By arresting and imprisoning people for their religious beliefs or peaceful expression of their views, Vietnam is in violation of the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights, to which it is a party.

While one UBCV monk was included in a recent Tet New Year prisoner amnesty, the government continues to persecute UBCV members and withhold any recognition of this group, once the largest organization of the majority religion in the country. Many UBCV members remain confined without charges to their pagodas, which are under strict police surveillance.

Mennonites in Vietnam have also encountered difficulties. Four Mennonites currently remain in prison on charges of resisting police officers after a scuffle broke out in March 2004 with undercover policemen who had been monitoring their Ho Chi Minh City church. On two separate occasions during 2004, officials in Kontum province bulldozed a Mennonite chapel. In September and October 2004, police pressured Mennonites in Kontum and Gia Lai provinces to sign forms renouncing their religion.

While relations between the Vatican and Vietnam have warmed in recent years, at least three Roman Catholics remain in prison, where they are serving long prison sentences for conducting training courses and distributing religious books without government permission. They include sixty-four-year-old Father Pham Minh Tri, who has been imprisoned at Z30A prison in Dong Nai for the last eighteen years, despite suffering dementia for most of the past decade.

As the deadline for finalizing the CPC consultations approaches, earlier this month the Prime Minister issued Instruction No. 01/2005, "Guiding Protestant Religious Organizations." It outlaws attempts by officials to force Protestants to abandon their religion, a practice Human Rights Watch has documented among ethnic minority Christians for years.

However, as with the Ordinance on Beliefs and Religion passed last year, this latest directive continues to require religious organizations to obtain government permission in order to operate, advancing Vietnam’s official stance that religious freedom is a privilege to be requested and granted by the government, rather than a fundamental human right.

"Hanoi needs to commit itself to deep-seated reform and meaningful action, rather than token gestures," said Adams. "There are hundreds of religious prisoners waiting for release, and thousands more people waiting for the right to express their beliefs and practice their faith." The International Religious Freedom Act offers the President a menu of options to address abuses in countries designated as CPC, ranging from public condemnation, limiting certain kinds of assistance, to full sanctions. In addition to Vietnam, countries designated as CPC this year include China, Burma, North Korea, Iran, Sudan, Saudi Arabia and Eritrea.

"The Bush Administration needs to send a strong message to the Vietnamese government that the U.S. will not tolerate this kind of persecution," said Adams. "The U.S. should make sure that any pledges made during these consultations are backed up by prompt action on the part of the Vietnamese authorities."

Proposed Benchmarks
The current talks between the U.S. and Vietnam aim to outline specific steps for Vietnam to take to improve its record on religious freedom, thereby avoiding stronger penalties by the U.S., including economic sanctions.

Human Rights Watch proposes that the State Department should make sure that the government of Vietnam has taken the following concrete steps as it evaluates Vietnam’s progress in improving its respect for religious freedom:

• Allow independent religious organizations to freely conduct religious activities and govern themselves. Churches and denominations that do not choose to join one of the officially-authorized religious organizations whose governing boards are under the control of the government should be allowed to independently register with the government.

• Release or grant amnesty to all people imprisoned or detained because of their non-violent religious beliefs and practices.

• Investigate and punish those responsible for all instances of violence against religious believers, including by civilians acting in concert with government officials. Such incidents include the violent suppression of the April 2004 protests by Montagnards in the Central Highlands, and reports of torture, beatings and killings of ethnic minority Protestants in both the central and northern highlands.

• Investigate reports of suppression of Protestants, including arbitrary detention of Mennonites and evangelical Christians. Those responsible for these violations should be brought to justice.

• Ensure that all domestic legislation addressing religious affairs is brought in conformity with international law, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Amend provisions in domestic law that criminalizes certain religious activities on the basis of imprecisely-defined "national security" crimes.

• Amend the 2004 Ordinance on Beliefs and Religion to include a provision that prohibits forced renunciation ceremonies by government officials, linked to specific disciplinary measures for offenders.

• Permit outside experts, including those from the United Nations and independent international human rights organizations, to have access to religious followers in Vietnam, including members of denominations not officially recognized by the government.

• Invite the U.N. Special Rapporteur on Religious Intolerance, the U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, and the U.N. Special Rapporteur on Torture to visit Vietnam to investigate violations of religious freedom and other rights abuses committed against members of churches that are not officially sanctioned by the government.

For the full text of Human Rights Watch’s letter to Secretary Rice, see:  http://hrw.org/english/docs/2005/02/28/vietna10217.htm

(http://hrw.org/english/docs/2005/02/28/vietna10217.htm)

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February 28, 2005

SISTER DRAW NATIONAL EYE WITH CHARITY
FUNDRAISERS FOR VIETNAMESE GROUP IN S.J. KEEP BUILDING AS PAIR CONTINUE EFFORTS

By Eric Louie
Knight Ridder

The efforts of Bay Area sisters Chi and Truc Nguyen to raise money for needy children in Vietnam have received national attention during the past year.

By virtue of the sisters' work, including the annual fundraising concerts they coordinate, younger sister Chi was involved with the ``Start Something'' program run by Target and golfer Tiger Woods' foundation. Besides getting a year of piano lessons for participating, the 16-year-old was selected to appear in newspaper and TV ads with the golfer promoting ``Start Something.''

In December, Chi traveled to New York for a NetAid awards dinner co-hosted by music producer Quincy Jones. That earned the high school senior $5,000, which will help pay her tuition at Stanford University in the fall. She was also interviewed on CNN.

Focus unchanged

Yet, Chi Nguyen said putting together Sunday's sixth annual Children's Benefit Concert in Pleasanton was much the same as in years past.

``I think it has given the project a little more credibility,'' said Chi about the benefit concert. Chi and Truc, who are from San Ramon, have raised $34,000 since starting their fundraising efforts in 1998. ``But it really hasn't changed anything. I don't share that information with everyone I meet. I'm not a big bragger,'' Chi said.

This year's concert performers include the Just Friends jazz band and members of the Milpitas-based Viet Spring Folk Ensemble. There also will be other musicians, including the sisters themselves playing piano.

The sisters started their efforts in 1998 with a garage sale, selling a personal Beanie Baby collection, homemade almond toffee and anything else they could. They donated those proceeds to the San Jose-based Vietnam Health Education and Literature Projects.

The next year, the girls traveled to Vietnam with their family. It was the first time the sisters had been to their parents' homeland; Truc Nguyen was born in Canada and Chi in Walnut Creek. Their parents would tell them about the poverty that existed in Vietnam.

The sisters saw the library that their first donations funded, but then saw a shelter that also provides schooling for about 100 children in the southern Vietnamese city of Can Tho. For the past four years, their fundraising efforts have paid all of the costs to operate that shelter.

Chi Nguyen said it takes about $5,000 to run the shelter for a year. So, after making a record $7,000 from last year's concert, this year's goal is to raise $10,000 and fund other projects of the San Jose group.

Gaining momentum

Each year the sisters' momentum has grown.

``I got volunteers from Stanford,'' said Truc Nguyen, 22, who recently graduated from the university and teaches job skills at a San Jose semiconductor company. She is a graduate of Pleasanton's Amador Valley High School, and the Pleasanton school district continues to let the sisters use the Amador Theater space for free. ``I sell almond toffee at work.''

This year's concert will have KGO-TV reporter David Louie as an emcee. A volunteer marketing consultant suggested an emcee and is also helping the sisters with their Web site. So when Chi Nguyen meets with local service groups to gather support, those groups' leaders already have the sisters' background.

``When we look back, it's surprising how far it's gone,'' she said. ``Every year we grow a little bit more.''

IF YOU'RE INTERESTED

The sixth annual Children's Benefit Concert will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton. Admission is $9. For more information, call (925) 275-9250; e-mail worldinterchange@gmail.com; or go to www.vnyouthinterchange.net.

(http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/11012016.htm)

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March 1, 2005

STUDY FINDS RACIAL UNDERSTANDING NOT A PRIORITY FOR MANY FRESHMAN
College newcomers also less likely to possess interracial friendships

By Lydia Osolinsky
Senior Staff Writer, The Daily Aztec

Marking a significant change, an annual study reported this year's college freshmen class is much less likely to have interracial friendships or see racial discrimination as a problem - compared with past classes.

"We were somewhat surprised," Linda J. Sax, UCLA associate professor of education and director of the study, said. "Those of us in academia are acutely aware of continuing racial discrimination that exists, but the students seemed to be less concerned."

Differences were reported along racial lines, with 24.9 percent of white students saying discrimination is no longer a problem, compared with 12.5 percent of black students and 18.3 percent of Hispanic students.

Out of the UCLA's Higher Education Research Institute, "The American Freshman: National Norms for 2004" report marked the 39th year the study was conducted. Results were based on the responses of 289,452 students at 440 colleges and universities nationwide.

Though the data alone does not indicate what is causing the trends, Sax said students may have interpreted the word "discrimination" to mean overt actions and may have been unaware of the more subtle inequities that exist between racial groups.

"Students may be interpreting decisions in various states to dismantle affirmative action as a sign that discrimination is not so much of a problem anymore," she said.

Jill Esbenshade, assistant sociology professor at San Diego State, said legislation attacking affirmative action programs, such as California's Prop. 209 in 1996, shows a culture of backlash that emerged during the time when many current college freshmen were growing up.

"There has been an upsurge in the belief that whites have somehow been disadvantaged by the system and that people of color are being unfairly advantaged by the system," she said.

Since the abolishment of affirmative action, many higher education institutions have seen declines in minority enrollment and reports have shown many neighborhoods and schools across the nation remain overwhelmingly segregated.

According to Esbenshade, who teaches a minority-group relations course, many students in her classes - whites in particular - do not fully grasp the prevalence of discrimination still prevalent in America, which she attributes in part to the lack of interaction between groups.

"Unless you're in a situation where you are with a person who is racial minority, you're not likely to be aware of how other people are treated," she said. "If you have only seen what you've experienced, you believe that to be the norm."

If the environment lacks diversity, she said, students of different ethnic groups will be less likely to interact because they will have fewer opportunities to do so.

According to SDSU Media Relations Director Jason Foster, though the university is unable to directly target potential students by race, it has continued outreach programs that indirectly promote ethnic diversity.

Scholarship awards, assistance funds and partnerships with inner-city school districts, such as City Heights and Sweetwater, target underprivileged groups and help prepare students for college, which will increase diversity on campus, Foster said.

Current SDSU numbers show 45 percent of students identify themselves as Caucasian, 20.7 percent as Hispanic or Mexican-American, 14.3 percent as Asian and 6.9 as Filipino or Pacific Islander. African-Americans make up 3.7 percent of the student body and 0.7 percent identify themselves as American Indian, according to Analytic Studies and Institutional Research. International students and those who declined to state their ethnicity are excluded from these numbers.

For many immersed in the university setting, the study's recent findings come as no surprise.

Biochemistry freshman Diana Bustos said though she does not consciously avoid making interracial friendships, she sometimes finds it is easier to relate to students who share her Mexican-American background.

"We can relate to how things are back home," Bustos said. "We have been raised the same way."

According to the study, fewer freshman students said "helping to promote racial understanding" was an "essential" or "very important" personal goal than in any other year in the history of the survey.

Laura Benson, a liberal studies freshman, would have aligned with the 23.5 percent of white students who agreed with the statement.

According to Benson, growing up in Long Beach helped to expose her to many different types of people, an experience she hopes to pass on to her future children.

"As a parent, I want my kids to be with other groups of people," she said.

"I want to invite African-American people and Spanish people - or whomever - over to my house with their kids so that my kids can see that (interracial friendships are) totally fine and that there is nothing wrong with that."

The number of students who indicated promoting racial understanding was an important personal goal peaked in 1992, the year riots broke out on the streets of Los Angeles.

Sax said it may take another event of national scope to raise awareness of racial tensions. However, she did not predict whether she believes the survey will report changes in racial interaction and understanding in the future.

 (http://www.thedailyaztec.com/news/2005/03/01/City/Study.Finds.Racial.Understanding.Not.A.Priority.For.Many.Freshmen-880496.shtml)
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March 1, 2005

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Sin Yen Ling, Esq., 212-966-5932 x 213

EAST COAST LEGAL IMMIGRATION CLINICS FOR NEW DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE REGULATIONS

AALDEF Provides Free Legal Advice to Southeast/Asian Communities Facing Deportation

April 26 Deadline to Reopen Deportation Case

Call AALDEF at 800-966-5946 x 213 to schedule an appointment; Obtain free legal advice for former green card holders with old deportation orders.

New York City - The Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF) is partnering with community-based organizations in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Philadelphia to provide free legal-advice about these new federal regulations that may benefit former green cardholders placed in deportation as a result of a criminal conviction. Attorneys will provide legal advice, by appointment only, at the following locations:

* March 6, 2005, 1:00pm-4:00pm, Providence, Rhode Island, located at
Providence Youth Student Movement, 807 Broad Street, 3rd Floor, Providence, RI 02907

* March 14, 2005, 3:00pm-8:00pm, Lowell, Massachusetts, located at
Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, 165 Jackson Street, Lowell, MA 01852

* March 26, 2005, 1:00pm-4:00pm, Providence, Rhode Island, located at
Providence Youth Student Movement, 807 Broad Street, 3rd Floor, Providence, RI 02907

* April 1, 2005, 3:00pm-8:00pm, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, located at
Cambodian Association of Greater Philadelphia, 5412 North 5 Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120

Who can apply under the new regulations? You must meet the following requirements: 1) you were a green card holder until you received a final order of deportation or removal; 2) you had the green card for at least 7 consecutive years prior to the date of your final order of deportation; 3) you pled guilty or no contest to a criminal case where the plea was made before April 1, 1997; and 4) you were eligible to apply for section 212(c) (deportation waiver) relief at the time the plea was made.

Individuals seeking legal advice must call to set up confidential meetings with an AALDEF staff attorney. Individuals must bring the following documents in order to receive proper legal advice: copy of notice to appear for deportation; copy of criminal convictions; and copies of immigration court documents, i.e., Immigration Judge Order; Notice of Appeal to Board of Immigration Appeals.

###

Sin Yen Ling
sling@aaldef.org
ASIAN AMERICAN LEGAL DEFENSE AND EDUCATION FUND
99 Hudson Street, 12/F New York, NY 10013-2815
Defending the civil rights of Asian Americans since 1974
t: 212.966.5932 f: 212.966.4303 website: www.aaldef.org

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March 1, 2005

DEMOCRATS OFFER DEAL ON REMAP
Lawmakers would no longer draw districts if governor agrees to begin plan after 2010 census

By Nancy Vogel, Times Staff Writer

SACRAMENTO — Democratic leaders would agree to give an independent panel the power to decide the boundaries of legislative and congressional districts as long as Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger would wait until after the 2010 census to redraw the lines, Assembly Speaker Fabian Nuñez said Monday.

Democrats would be willing to "have an objective third party that draws the district boundaries," Nuñez (D-Los Angeles) said, adding that he also was speaking for Senate Democratic Leader Don Perata (D-Oakland).

"That's huge movement on our part," Nuñez said. "To give up drawing the district boundaries is no small thing."

Schwarzenegger has said the current legislative boundaries were gerrymandered to protect incumbents. He has made it a priority to take the power to draw district lines away from the Legislature and give it to a panel of retired judges.

So far, he has insisted that the change take effect in 2006, and he has said that he would take his proposal to voters in the fall if the Legislature did not approve it.

Some legal experts, however, say that even if the governor wins, drawing new lines in time for the 2006 election may be impossible. The boundaries would have to be based on 2000 census data.

California's population has grown by 2.6 million people since then, state demographers said.

Mapmakers using out-of-date information would be unable to guarantee that the 80 Assembly, 40 Senate and 53 congressional districts they drew would contain nearly equal numbers of people to meet constitutional requirements.

That makes a court challenge practically inevitable, the academic and legal experts say. States typically redraw their political boundaries once every 10 years using fresh census data.

Experts say only one state has voluntarily redrawn lines mid-decade — Texas in 2003 — and the legality of that Republican-led plan has been challenged in federal court, with a decision expected any day.

"If you're looking at doing another redistricting mid-decade, we don't have accurate data," said Karin Mac Donald, who oversees California's redistricting database, which is housed at the University of California's Institute of Governmental Studies in Berkeley. "We would probably be in court until 2010."

Steve Reyes, a staff attorney with the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund in Los Angeles, said: "There's a problem with using outdated census data. It's not going to get you close to one-person, one-vote districts … of equal size. During the last redistricting here they were within five people here and there."

Other redistricting experts said there should be no legal reason why new lines could not be based on 2000 census data.

"It's a human compromise as to how you do the best you can without saying we have to change lines every 20 minutes every time a kid's born, dies or drives out of town," said Chip Nielsen, a Marin County attorney with Nielsen Merksamer Parrinello Muller & Naylor, which was heavily involved in redistricting disputes in the 1980s.

"The bottom line is, on this sort of stuff, there is nothing that's perfect," he said. "The size of the districts changes every day. But the rule is you've got to use the most recent census data…. So the question is, could you have districts that change four years or six years into the decade? The answer is, why not?"

Under the current lines, which were crafted by Republican and Democratic lawmakers in 2001, not one of 153 seats changed party hands in the last election.

In a speech last week in Sacramento, Schwarzenegger said the current districts were drawn by "a political elite building a fortress to keep themselves in and to keep the people out."

The independent redistricting plan, ACAX1 3 introduced by Assembly Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy of Bakersfield and backed by the governor, will probably not pass the Democratic-controlled Legislature so long as it requires new lines before the 2010 census, Nuñez said.

"You cannot draw district boundaries without making sure that every vote counts," Nuñez said. "And you can't make sure every vote counts if you don't have a census which will tell you whether we have 3 million new people, 5 million new people or a million new people. Anything short of that is a political power grab by the Republicans to try and move Democratic seats over to the Republican aisle."

McCarthy said that if his bill dies, the governor will take his fight to voters and endorse an initiative drafted by anti-tax activist Ted Costa that includes an immediate redrawing of political boundaries. Schwarzenegger is expected to call a special election in November to push several major proposals, including redistricting.

Nuñez said Democrats are willing to take their chances with voters.

Even if voters pass a measure in November, experts say, there probably isn't enough time to prepare for a June 2006 primary.

County election officials and those familiar with past redistricting efforts say that at least five months are needed after maps are redrawn to adjust voting precincts within counties, alert voters to new polling places and give candidates time to campaign.

Passage of a ballot measure in November would leave only a month or two, including the December holidays, for a panel of retired judges to be chosen, hold public hearings and redraw lines for 173 districts.

Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder Conny B. McCormack said that in the last redistricting, registrars got the new maps on Sept. 28, 2001, and had to be ready for a March 5, 2002 primary election.

"It's less time than we had last time, which is insufficient time," she said.

Schwarzenegger spokesman Rob Stutzman said the governor wants new lines drawn "as soon as possible."

"If 2008 is as soon as possible, then that's great," he said, "but we'll strive for 2006."

If 2008 is more achievable, "why are we spending all this money when in two years you're going to go through this process again [when the 2010 census is taken]?" asked Kathay Feng, voting rights director of the Asian Pacific American Legal Center. She will begin work soon as executive director of California Common Cause, a citizens lobby with a long history of pushing to take redistricting out of the hands of lawmakers.

In a big victory this month for Schwarzenegger, California Common Cause endorsed McCarthy's redistricting bill — despite the group's opposition to a mid-decade redistricting.

"We have had some very productive discussions with Senate and Assembly leadership and also with the governor's office," Feng said.

"I think the final issue they will lock horns on is mid-decade redistricting."

(http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-redistrict1mar01,1,717631.story)

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About NCVA
Founded in 1986, the National Congress of Vietnamese Americans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community advocacy organization working to advance the cause of Vietnamese Americans in a plural but united America – e pluribus unum – by participating actively and fully as civic minded citizens engaged in the areas of education, culture and civil liberties.
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