For Immediate Release
September 12, 2011

Press contact: Robin Nau (440) 554-6253; robin@asiaohio.org

ASIA launches Advocacy Toolkit to promote civic engagement

AKRON – Asian Services In Action has now made available on their website an Advocacy Toolkit, a user-friendly webpage designed to provide Asian Americans with general, advocacy-related information necessary to become active participants in government.

With scarce resources currently available for Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals regarding advocacy, ASIA’s Advocacy Toolkit was created to help link LEP individuals such as immigrants, refugees, and other foreign born residents with resources and practical information to start voicing their concerns as constituents.  Translated in four languages (Burmese, Chinese, Korean and Nepali), the  toolkit serves as a starting point equipped with basic information and easy-to-follow instructions for LEP individuals and anyone else interested in making their voice count.

The webpage offers answers to general questions regarding advocacy, a brief explanation of the legislative process, and detailed directions on contacting U.S. and state legislators including social media. Each method can be used as a guideline for anyone unfamiliar with the processes.  “It’s a way to introduce people to the legislative process and to remind our community that participating in government is not out of reach,” said Robin Nau, ASIA’s Special Projects Coordinator.  “The toolkit also encourages those who may have attended the recent Ohio AAPI Legislative Day to stay engaged with their legislators.”

As Asian Americans continue to be one of the fastest growing minorities in Ohio their political voice and representation should also increase. It is essential that Asian Americans increase their civic participation through community involvement and political awareness so that their growing presence is more recognized and their rights are not overlooked. Please click here to visit the Advocacy Toolkit.

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