About our programs

• Dumplings of Love

  • Dumplings of Love is not just an investment in a meal; it's an investment in the heart of New York City. This initiative harnesses the power of shared meals and cross-cultural exchange to bridge divides, foster understanding, and promote unity among diverse communities. By supporting small, locally-owned AAPI businesses, Dumplings of Love not only stimulates the local economy but also strengthens community resilience. At its core, this grassroots initiative provides essential hot meals to those in need while nurturing a sense of belonging and solidarity, thereby making an indelible impact on the social fabric and cultural richness of our city.

    Introduction:

    In New York City, where diversity thrives but tensions simmer to a palpable level, fostering social harmony and economic resilience is paramount. Dumplings of Love offers a transformative approach to community building through the shared experience of food. This proposal outlines the critical importance of funding Dumplings of Love and its profound potential to cultivate intercommunity solidarity, increase cross-cultural exposure, and mitigate tensions between communities.

    Objectives:

    • Cultivate intercommunity solidarity and understanding through impactful food distributions in lower-income areas, fostering connections and cultural appreciation across diverse communities.

    • Empower small, locally-owned AAPI businesses to drive economic growth and enhance community resilience, promoting shared prosperity and sustainable development.

    • Provide nourishing hot meals to individuals facing food insecurity, fostering a deep sense of belonging and connection within the community while addressing critical needs.

    Approach:

    Fostering Inter-community Solidarity:

    • Dumplings of Love leads impactful food distributions in historically underserved neighborhoods, acting as a community gathering that bridges cultural gaps and embraces the shared struggles between communities of color. These events showcase the diverse tapestry of cultural heritage, fostering empathy, understanding, and appreciation among attendees from various backgrounds. Through the act of sharing meals, individuals not only build genuine connections but also challenge stereotypes, fostering a deep sense of belonging and unity within their communities.

    Supporting AAPI Businesses and Increasing Cross-Cultural Exposure:

    • Through strategic partnerships with small, locally-owned AAPI businesses, Dumplings of Love not only showcases the culinary diversity of Asian cuisines but also provides a platform for cultural exchange and exploration. Our recipients not only have the opportunity to savor delicious dishes but also gain deeper insights into AAPI cultures, traditions, and histories, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

    Nurturing Belonging and Resilience:

    • Beyond the joy of a shared meal, Dumplings of Love addresses the pressing issue of food insecurity by providing nourishing meals to those in need. These meals are more than sustenance; they are symbols of care, compassion, and community support. By ensuring that no one goes hungry, Dumplings of Love fosters a profound sense of belonging, solidarity, and empowerment.

    Impact:

    The impact of Dumplings of Love transcends the dinner table, reverberating throughout the streets and neighborhoods of New York City. By fostering inter-community solidarity and increasing cross-cultural exposure, this initiative has the potential to transform  attitudes, and perceptions within and across communities. Through its innovative approach to social engagement and economic empowerment, Dumplings of Love lays the groundwork for a more inclusive, equitable, and harmonious New York.

    Conclusion:

    In conclusion, funding Dumplings of Love is not just an investment in a meal; it's an investment in the soul of New York City. By fostering inter-community solidarity, increasing cross-cultural exposure, and nurturing a profound sense of belonging, this initiative has the power to transcend barriers, build bridges, and forge a more vibrant, resilient, and united city for all. With your support, Dumplings of Love can continue to nourish hearts, minds, and spirits, one meal at a time.

    • Want to talk to us about sponsoring a Dumplings of Love event or participating? Find more info in our SPONSOR DECK and let us know how you’d like to get involved by filling out this FORM.
      

• Hate Crime Victim Support

  • Asians Fighting Injustice (AFI) emerged in response to the alarming increase in hate and bias incidents targeting Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) across the United States during th COVID-19 pandemic. Our founding members were galvanized into action following the shocking rise in hate and bias incidents and  tragic events like the Atlanta spa shooting in March 2021. Since then, we have been committed to supporting victims, raising awareness, and fostering community resilience. Below is our comprehensive strategy to combat hate and bias, encompassing education, support services, proactive prevention efforts, and collaborative partnerships.

    Objectives:

    • Raise awareness about the historic and contemporary systemic roots and consequences of hate and bias incidents targeting the AAPI community.

    • Provide comprehensive support services for victims of hate and bias incidents, including mental health resources, legal assistance, and educational opportunities.

    • Engage in proactive prevention efforts through community outreach, advocacy, and policy reform initiatives.

    • Forge collaborative partnerships with government agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders to amplify our impact and affect meaningful change both within the AAPI community and the general population.

    Strategy:

    Education and Awareness:

    AFI will develop engaging educational materials and conduct targeted outreach campaigns to raise awareness about what the Civil Rights Corps has termed the “ Social Determinants of Safety” ,an approach to understanding community safety through a public health framework, and the pervasive impact of hate and bias incidents. Through workshops, presentations, multimedia projects, and community forums, we aim to foster dialogue and empower individuals to take action against prejudice and discrimination.

    Victim Support Services:

    Building upon our network of trained volunteers and community partners, AFI will expand our capacity to provide comprehensive support services for individuals impacted by hate and bias. This includes offering culturally competent mental health resources, advocacy, and educational workshops tailored to the unique needs of the AAPI community.

    Prevention and Advocacy:

    AFI will engage in proactive prevention efforts to address the root causes of hate and bias incidents. This includes advocating for policy reforms, as well as organizing community-led initiatives to promote tolerance and understanding, and engaging in community-based participatory research to ensure community-led initiatives remain responsive to the changing needs of New York’s AAPI community. By empowering community members to advocate for change, and encourage more active civic engagement, we aim to create a more equitable and inclusive society for all.

    Collaboration and Partnerships:

    AFI recognizes the importance of collaboration in achieving our goals. We actively seek to forge partnerships with government agencies, law enforcement (as we have with District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office), civil rights organizations, community-based nonprofits,  and stakeholders to leverage resources and expertise. Through ongoing dialogue and cooperation, we can amplify our impact and affect meaningful change in the fight against hate and bias.

    • Want to partner with us or volunteer as a service provider? Send us a message HERE.