In 1976, a group of AAPI activists and advocates began to meet regularly as the “Asian Lunch Bunch,” becoming the nucleus of an organization with the mission of maximizing access to government services and resources for the Los Angeles AAPI community. They launched what would begin as the Asian Pacific Planning Council (APPCON), evolving five decades later to its present identity AAPI Equity Alliance (formerly A3PCON). The initial group numbered between 30-40 individuals and has grown presently to 50 member organizations. Its historic accomplishments included advocacy for increased funding addressing mental health needs for AAPI communities, amplifying AAPI participation in legislative processes, and the formation of APIAVote!, the Human Trafficking Task Force, and Stop AAPI Hate. On Thursday, May 21, 2026, AAPI Equity celebrated these and many other achievements at its 50th Anniversary Gala held at California Science Center, Los Angeles. A major highlight was recognition of founders and early community pioneers, including SSG Executive Director Dr. Herb Hatanaka and APAIT Director Jury Candelario, who served as AAPI Equity’s board president in 2004.
Fiftieth Anniversary Gala Celebrates Pioneers Who Built and Led AAPI Equity Alliance
