In celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we are hosting a series of profiles and stories to amplify and honor people, businesses, organizations, and projects connected to the history of Seattle's AAPI community.

When we asked AAPI staff members and community collaborators which organizations or businesses they would like to highlight this month, API Chaya came up repeatedly.

For the past 25 years, API Chaya has supported Asian, South Asian, and Pacific Islander survivors of gender-based violence and human trafficking to gain safety, connection, and wellness. Their work helps empower immigrant communities toward ending exploitation, violence, and oppression and creating a world where all people can heal and thrive.

Their community organizers bring culturally relevant educational programs to the communities they serve and help shift cultural and societal norms that allow violence to exist. Volunteers with the organization connect people with their services and create awareness about domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.

In 2020, API Chaya provided more than 6,000 hours of support to over 700 adults and children impacted by gender-based violence. Their services reached clients from 21 countries speaking 38 different languages and included:

• 57 percent identified as immigrants or refugees
• 33 percent limited English speaking
• 23 percent people with disabilities
• 11% LGBTQ+
• 21 countries of origin
• 38 different languages

They partner with community organizations to reach those in need and organize local events to inspire social change and create conditions of safety. Their empathetic and understanding approach helps their clients find healing at their own pace and builds a sustainable path from crisis to stability that includes community support.

To learn more about API Chaya and the work they do visit www.apichaya.org.