News

05.07.2025

Advancing Justice | Chicago Responds to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security’s Visit to Illinois

Press Statement

Advancing Justice | Chicago Responds to
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security’s Visit to Illinois

CHICAGO, IL — Today, May 7, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem visited Springfield, Illinois, to criticize the state’s sanctuary policies, including the TRUST Act, which limits local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

In response, Advancing Justice | Chicago reaffirms its unwavering commitment to Illinois as a sanctuary for all.

We stand in solidarity with Governor J.B. Pritzker, Attorney General Kwame Raoul, and local leaders who have consistently upheld the rights and dignity of immigrant communities.
Illinois’ sanctuary status, codified through the bipartisan TRUST Act of 2017, prohibits local law enforcement from detaining individuals solely based on immigration status. This legislation ensures that all residents, regardless of their immigration status, can access essential services without fear of deportation, thereby fostering safer and more inclusive communities.

Advancing Justice | Chicago has long championed policies that promote immigrant rights, such as advocating for increased funding for immigrant services and expanding language access across state government.

While we recognize the challenges posed by recent federal actions, including lawsuits aimed at dismantling sanctuary protections, we remain steadfast in our belief that a compassionate, equitable society welcomes and supports all people, no matter their immigration status.

As we continue our work, we urge all elected officials to uphold the values of justice and equity. Illinois must remain a sanctuary for all and a place where every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity and thrive.

Press Contact: Arjumand Khan
Communications Manager
Advancing Justice | Chicago
Email: akhan@advancingjustice-chicago.org

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Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago builds power through collective advocacy and organizing to achieve racial equity. Learn more at www.advancingjustice-chicago.org.  

 

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Hundreds Gather for 12th Annual Asian American Action Day in Springfield to Demand “Sanctuary for All”

Press Release

Immediate Release: Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Media Contact: Advancing Justice | Chicago
Communications Manager
Arjumand Khan email: akhan@advancingjustice-chicago.org

Hundreds Gather for 12th Annual Asian American Action Day in Springfield to Demand “Sanctuary for All”

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois– More than 500 community members from across Illinois converged at the State Capitol today for the 12th annual Asian American Action Day, organized by the Pan Asian Voter Empowerment (PAVE) Coalition and led by Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.
This year’s powerful gathering marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the wars in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos and served as a moment of remembrance, resistance, and renewed calls for immigrant justice under the rallying cry: “Sanctuary for All.”

“I felt really empowered by the day and felt connected to my community. We do not need anyone to speak for us; we can speak for our needs. Our voices belong in the Capitol and our voices deserve to be heard,” said Nebula Li, Advancing Justice | Chicago volunteer leader.

Dozens of lobby teams made up of concerned community members spent the day advocating for policies that uplift and protect Asian American communities.

This year’s legislative priorities include increasing funding for the Immigrant Services Line Item and Access to Justice program, as well as legislation that promotes inclusive school calendars, protections for undocumented immigrants, and affordable housing.

These face-to-face meetings with lawmakers demonstrated the power of grassroots civic engagement and the impact of community-led advocacy in shaping statewide policy.

The PAVE Coalition was honored and acknowledged on the House floor during the legislative session by state Representative Kevin Olickal. State Representative Theresa Mah also highlighted Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago for their leadership within the Coalition.

The day culminated with a rally that began with a heartfelt tribute to Tuyet Le, the former Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago and the visionary founder of both Asian American Action Day and the Asian American Caucus in the Illinois Legislature. The tribute was delivered by Deputy Governor Grace Hou.

Emceed by Stella Wang of Advancing Justice | Chicago and Philana Quan of the Vietnamese Association of Illinois, the rally program included powerful reflections from Southeast Asian American community leaders and personal testimonies highlighting the ongoing challenges facing immigrants and refugees.

Chants of “What do we want? Sanctuary for all! When do we want it? Now!” echoed throughout the Capitol rotunda.

Speakers from the Cambodian Association of Illinois, Lao American Organization of Elgin, and Vietnamese Association of Illinois shared moving reflections on intergenerational trauma and resilience.
Community testimonies from Norasing Kethdy, Jong Hee Yoon (with interpretation by Sunyoung Pierce), and 16-year-old Adam Kattom of the Muslim Civic Coalition underscored the urgent need for increased investment in immigrant services, legal protections, and inclusive school policies.
Illinois’ Asian American elected officials also took the stage in support of the day’s demands. Representative Hoan Huynh, Representative Theresa Mah, and Senator Ram Villivalam expressed solidarity with the community and reaffirmed their commitment to immigrant justice and legislative change.

The event brought together all 19 organizations in the PAVE Coalition and ended with a group photo, final chants, and a unified call to continue the work toward sanctuary and justice for all.

This year’s Asian American Action Day served not only as a commemoration of history, but as a mobilizing force for policy change and a future rooted in solidarity, safety, and dignity for all communities.

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Media note: Please see the following link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/12jD01_gsvXgO-CQn0_eKzTC5ci2PNRh3?usp=sharing_eil&ts=68129ade for pictures from AAA Day 2025. Photo credit: Advancing Justice | Chicago

Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago builds power through collective advocacy and organizing to achieve racial equity. Learn more at www.advancingjustice-chicago.org.  

 

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04.22.2025

AAPI Heritage Month May 2025

This May’s Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we will be celebrating our diverse community. Advancing Justice | Chicago is partnering with individuals and local businesses to bring awareness to our mission and help give back by supporting our work in different ways.

We are thrilled to be partnering with restaurants, bars, and businesses for AAPI Heritage Month once again, as well as raffling items from our in-kind partners.

Jump to:
Month-Long Fundraisers
Individual Events
In-Kind Partners


Our month-long fundraisers


Individual Events


EVENT DETAILS

May 4

Savor Asia: An AAPI Celebration
Time Out Market Chicago
916 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
1:00 – 4:00 PM
Ticket price: $65 (includes one dish from each of the six chefs and one welcome cocktail)
Register HERE

Join Time Out Market Chicago for Savor Asia, a vibrant celebration of food, culture, and community in honor of AAPI Heritage Month! This exciting event brings together flavors from across Asia, featuring a diverse array of Asian-inspired dishes and local AAPI chefs and vendors showcasing their culinary talents.

Participating chefs: Bill Kim (Urbanbelly), Jesse Li (QXY Dumplings), Joe Fontelera (Boonies), Andrew Lim (PERILLA), Zubair Mohajir (MIRRA), Nate Hoops (Phodega), Kevin Yu (2D Restaurant)

Co-sponsored by Coquetel Collective and Johnnie Walker Whisky featuring cocktails inspired by the diverse flavors of Asia available for purchase.

A portion of ticket sales will go towards benefitting the organization Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.


May 10

Sake & Sool Tasting
Konbini & Kanpai (Wrigleyville)
3443 N Sheffield, STE 1, Chicago, IL 60657
12:00 – 3:00 PM
Get tickets

Join us for a special tasting event featuring a curated selection of Japanese sake and Korean sool in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month. Discover the diverse flavors and traditions of these iconic Asian beverages, and learn what makes each one unique.

A portion of proceeds from this event will be donated to Asian Americans Advancing Justice, supporting equity and advocacy for AAPI communities. Come sip, learn, and support a great cause.


May 10

AAPI Month Kick-Off Party: “Second Round” 2차! (ee-cha!)
Hopewell Brewing Company
2760 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
2:00 – 5:00 PM
More on Instagram

To kick off AAPI Heritage Month, Hopewell Brewing Company is celebrating with “Second Round” on Sunday, May 10th from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Featuring:

  • Choom cocktails
  • Sharp + Makgeolli special
  • Food by Snackie Chan

10% of proceeds will be donated to Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.


May 6-17

May 2025 Bake Sale for AAPI Month (Board-led*)
Tiny Thugs Kitchen

*Led by Board Director Cathy Nieng

Tiny Thugs Kitchen is having a bake sale for Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago!

  1. Place order for baked goods between May 6 and May 13 at forms.gle/RTGdpn4WpQsLGamc9Orders must be placed by May 13, 11:59 PM Central Time.
    1. Menu: Pepero Cookie, Misugaru Glazed Cookie, Yuza Mochi Brownie
  2. For shipments, they will go out between May 19 and 21.
  3. For pick-up, it will be on May 17 in the Bronzeville neighborhood in Chicago.

For more information, contact Jane Lee at jlaenee24@gmail.com.

All proceeds will go towards Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.


May 14

Fundraiser at Portillo’s Skokie and Deerfield (Board-led*)
Portillo’s Skokie: 9400 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60077
AND
Portillo’s Deerfield: 700 Lake Cook Rd, Deerfield, IL 60015
5:00 – 8:00 PM

*Led by Board Vice Chair Aisha Ghori Ozaki and Board Directors Khai Yang, Maria Odiamar Racho, Youngmee Ko

Join us at Portillo’s for a fundraiser to support Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago!

FOR THE SKOKIE LOCATION: Use code PORTILLOS28 online or in-app, or show THIS FLYER to the cashier when ordering in-person at Portillo’s Skokie. Valid on drive thru, pickup, kiosk, and in-restaurant orders.

FOR THE DEERFIELD LOCATION: Use code PORTILLOS47 online or in-app, or show THIS FLYER to the cashier when ordering in-person at Portillo’s Deerfield. Valid on drive thru, pickup, kiosk, and in-restaurant orders.

20% of sales will benefit Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.


May 14

Parachute Turns Eleven: AAPI Celebration
Parachute HiFi
3500 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
All night
Walk in or make a reservation at OpenTable
More on Instagram

Join us on May 14th as Parachute HiFi celebrates 11 incredible years!
We’re marking the occasion with a special one-night pop-up featuring the cocktail wizards at Coquetel Collective — serving up culinary cocktails inspired by our favorite Asian flavors. Proceeds of these specialty cocktails will go to support Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.

Sip and savor with features from KMS Imports Woorisoul, Ming River Baijiu, and Ritual Zero Proof
Listen to a set by DJ Yuco from 6-10 pm


May 14

Sake, Sool, & Wine Tasting
Konbini & Kanpai (Lakeview)
1433 W Belmont, STE 1, Chicago, IL 60657
6:00 – 8:00 PM
Get tickets

Join us for a special tasting event featuring a curated selection of wine, Japanese sake, and Korean sool in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month. Discover the diverse flavors and traditions of these iconic Asian beverages and learn what makes each one unique.

A portion of proceeds from this event will be donated to Asian Americans Advancing Justice, supporting equity and advocacy for AAPI communities. Come sip, learn, and support a great cause.


May 16

Taste with Sake Brewers
Konbini & Kanpai (Wrigleyville)
3443 N Sheffield, STE 1, Chicago, IL 60657
5:30 – 8:30 PM
Get tickets

Meet and taste with four sake brewers: Eiko Fuji, Izumo Fuji, Hochu Homare, and Shichi Hon Yari

A portion of proceeds from this event will be donated to Asian Americans Advancing Justice, supporting equity and advocacy for AAPI communities. Come sip, learn, and support a great cause.


May 18

Hong Kong Je Si Night Market
Ludlow Liquors
2959 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
3:00 – 9:00 PM
More on Instagram

Inspired by Hong Kong night markets, Ludlow Liquors will celebration small local makers with an AAPI mini market on their back patio.

Featuring:

  • Live DJ and photo booth
  • Flash tattoos and press-on nail bar
  • Fashion show and Wong Kar-Wai films
  • Curated vendors in snacks, vintage and handmade goods, and more!
  • Cocktail collaborations with Coquetel Collective, Ritual Zero Proof, and Ming River Baijiu

Brought to you by Kiyomi Negi-Tran and SuperHai

$1 from each special cocktail sale goes towards Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.


May 21

Fundraiser at Chipotle Glenview (Board-led*)
Chipotle Glenview
2341 Willow Rd, Glenview, IL 60025
4:00 – 8:00 PM

*Led by Board Directors Khai Yang, Maria Odiamar Racho, Youngmee Ko

Join us at Chipotle for a fundraiser to support Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago!

Use code GRAZLW6 online, or show THIS FLYER to the cashier when ordering in-person at Chipotle in Glenview.

25% of sales will benefit Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.


May 21

Sool Happy Hour
All Together Now
2119 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
5:00 – 7:00 PM

More on Instagram


May 21-28

Empanada Fundraiser with Savory Crust (Board-led*)
Savory Crust (Carol Stream): 135 E St. Charles Rd, Unit A, Carol Stream, IL 60188
Savory Crust (Morton Grove): 7180 Dempster St, Morton Grove, IL 60053

*Led by Board Directors Khai Yang, Maria Odiamar Racho, Youngmee Ko

  1. Place order for frozen empanadas at either the Carol Stream or Morton Grove locations of Savory Crust by Wed, May 21, 8 PM.
    1. Carol Stream order: Savory Crust Gourmet Empanadas – Asian Americans Advancing Justice Fundraiser – Carol Stream Location Pickup – US | Tock
    2. Morton Grove order: Savory Crust Gourmet Empanadas – Asian Americans Advancing Justice Fundraiser – Morton Grove Location Pickup – US | Tock
  2. Pick up order at Carol Stream or Morton Grove location on Wed, May 28 by 8 PM.

20% of sales will benefit Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.


May 28

AZN PRIDE Cocktail Pop-up
Maria’s Packaged Goods and Community Bar
960 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60608
5:00 – 8:00 PM

Details TBA


May 30

Choreo & Chai (Board-led*)
Culture in Motion Dance Studio
2036 Northbrook Ct, Northbrook, IL 60062
6:30 – 8:00 PM
Get tickets at bit.ly/ChoreoAndChai

*Led by Board Vice Chair Aisha Ghori Ozaki and Board Director Rummana Hussain

Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with Culture in Motion, a Bollywood dance studio in Northbrook. Join us for a class, stay for snacks and connection!

Tickets are $30. All proceeds from the event benefit Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago.


In-Kind Partners

Google Map of In-Kind Partners

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04.11.2025

Asian Americans Advancing Justice Denounces House Passage of SAVE Act  

     PRESS STATEMENT: Friday, April 11th, 2025

     FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Asian Americans Advancing Justice Denounces House Passage of SAVE Act  

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the House of Representatives voted to pass the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, a dangerous piece of legislation that creates barriers to voting for millions of Americans. The act requires individuals to show documentary proof of citizenship such as a passport or birth certificate to register or re-register to vote with the goal of preventing noncitizen voting in federal elections – something that is exceedingly rare. The bill will now move to the Senate for consideration. 

Asian Americans Advancing Justice, a network of four affiliated independent civil rights organizations issues the following statement

“We are dismayed by the House’s decision to advance the misnamed SAVE Act, which is an unwarranted attack on voting rights for all who are eligible. In reality, the SAVE Act exploits divisive claims about voter fraud to undermine the democratic process and villainize immigrant communities. And while it aims to target noncitizens, it will make registering to vote significantly more difficult for the over 21 million Americans who were born here or are naturalized citizens, who do not have ready access to the required forms of identification only due to the nature of accessing or maintaining such documents. 

“Additionally, the SAVE Act’s mandate for states to purge voter rolls of noncitizens is an error-prone process due to outdated information in many state and federal databases. It will disproportionately harm communities of color, including Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI), especially the nearly 50% who are naturalized. Let’s call the SAVE Act what it actually is: fraudulent fearmongering designed to exclude qualified voters. 

“We already know that requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote creates barriers for eligible voters. Past attempts to require proof of citizenship to vote and remove suspected noncitizens from voter rolls at the state level erroneously blocked thousands of eligible voters from exercising their right to vote. While this outcome is disappointing, we will continue working to defend the right of all eligible Americans to show up at the ballot box.” 

PRESS CONTACT: 

Aleisha Flores (771) 233-8202 aflores@advancingjustice-aajc.org

Liana Liang (213) 977‑7500 x237 lliang@ajsocal.org

Rachael Ramchand (404) 585-8446 x990 rramchand@advancingjustice-atlanta.org 

Arjumand Khan (773) 616-0755 akhan@advancingjustice-chicago.org

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Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago builds power through collective advocacy and organizing to achieve racial equity. Learn more at www.advancingjustice-chicago.org.  

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03.21.2025

Asian Americans Advancing Justice Calls Out Detention of Green Card Holder and Raises Concerns Over Lack of Due Process 

PRESS STATEMENT: Monday, March 18th, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Asian Americans Advancing Justice Calls Out Detention of Green Card Holder and Raises Concerns Over Lack of Due Process 

Asian Americans Advancing Justice, a network of four independent Asian American civil rights organizations, releases the following statement:   

Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil will remain in a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Louisiana, a New York federal judge held Wednesday. Khalil is a lawful permanent resident who was arrested by federal officials at his Columbia University residence on Saturday, March 8, 2025, in an attempt by the Trump administration to deport him in retaliation for his advocacy in support of Palestinian rights.  

Asian Americans Advancing Justice, an affiliation of four Asian American civil rights organizations across the country, responds to the unfolding situation of the detention and potential deportation of Khalil, and the current threats to legal protections in this country. 

The Trump administration’s ongoing actions raise serious concerns about the disregard for the rule of law, exemplified by the recent detention and attempted deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder. The president’s unconscionably broad interpretation of his administration’s authority to deport lawful permanent residents undermines principles of due process and chills First Amendment expression, highlighting a troubling trend of prioritizing political agendas over legal protections and individual freedoms. Such actions threaten the foundational values of justice and fairness that underpin our democracy. 

We stand in solidarity with those speaking out during this critical time as the Trump administration seeks to instill fear and suppress the right to speak out against U.S. foreign policies. Everyone is entitled to exercise their First Amendment rights. 

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About Asian Americans Advancing Justice 

Asian Americans Advancing Justice is a national affiliation of four leading Asian American civil rights organizations committed to advancing the civil and human rights of Asian Americans and building a more just society for all. 

 About Asian Americans Advancing Justice 

Asian Americans Advancing Justice is a national affiliation of four leading Asian American civil rights organizations committed to advancing the civil and human rights of Asian Americans and building a more just society for all. 

Contact: 

Aleisha Flores, aflores@advancingjustice-aajc.org 

Liza Ameen, lameen@ajsocal.org 

Marylin Tom, mtom@advancingjustice-atlanta.org 

Arjumand Khan, akhan@advancingjustice-chicago.org 

Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago builds power through collective advocacy and organizing to achieve racial equity. Learn more at www.advancingjustice-chicago.org.  

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