The Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs is a state agency with an advisory board of 12 commissioners who are appointed by the governor to be a voice for Washington’s diverse Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.
Our mission is to improve the lives of Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander in Washington State by ensuring their access to participation in the fields of government, business, education, and other areas (Chapter 43.117 RCW). We work in partnership with our communities and state leaders to respond to concerns and bring about positive change and long-term solutions. Our staff and commissioners:
- Ensure community voices are heard in state government.
- Inform communities about laws and policies that affect their well-being.
- Advocate for policies and services that support the unique needs of our communities.
Agency Rules
CAPAA Administrative Policies October 23′
Focus Areas
- Civil Rights & Justice: Advocate for racial equity and civil rights, including justice for immigrants and refugees.
- Education: Develop strategies to ensure every child has access to a quality education that values diversity and mutual respect.
- Health & Human Services: Promote solutions to improve access to quality, affordable, and culturally-appropriate health and social services.
- Economic Development: Increase opportunities to participate in entrepreneurship and the workforce.
Purpose
In order to meet its mission, the Commission serves several functions and roles. Among them are:
- Research and analysis: To examine and define issues pertaining to the rights and needs of ANHPIs, and make recommendations to the governor, legislators, and state agencies with respect to desirable changes in program and law.
- Advisory and Advocacy: To advise the Governor and state and local public officials on the development and implementation of comprehensive and coordinated policies, plans, and programs focusing on the special problems and needs of ANHPIs.
- Education: To educate ANHPI communities about laws, programs, and policies that affect its well-being.
- Conduit and consultant: To make government more accessible by serving as a conduit and consultant between ANHPI communities and state agencies.
- Resource: To serve as a resource through research and educational materials, technical assistance, agency referrals, casework, and community forums.
Informational Brochures
The Commission produced and printed informational brochures that are translated into the following Asian and Pacific Islander languages.
