The New Mexico Asian Family Center’s (NMAFC) mission is to provide culturally sensitive programs and services creating a Pan-Asian community that advocates for and supports itself. In 2006, NMAFC was founded due to recognition that culturally and linguistically accessible social services for API communities in New Mexico were nonexistent and that this population had been historically underserved within the state. And now, 15 years later, our daily work continues to fight this systemic disparity by nurturing a vision of thriving API families that have equitable access to the resources they need.
Through culturally tailored and linguistically accessible services, NMAFC is able to address gender-based violence in a way that feels appropriate to our communities which includes language-specific case management and peer support groups, healing circles, talk therapy, legal consultation and aid, workshops, trainings, and coaching. Programming has been built out to include the whole multigenerational family and impact systems for sustainable change. All programs are designed under an anti-racism lens in conjunction with our women and families, who help to identify needs and gaps of support within New Mexico. Because our core values are founded in the belief that solutions to issues confronting our families lie directly within the knowledge, wisdom, and experiences of those same families, NMAFC strives to be an agency that is community-led and community-focused.
Unfortunately, this past year has proven to be deeply traumatic and challenging for our staff and community. In addition to the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, the harassment and abuse evidenced by recent documentation and circulation on social media has caused great fear, grief, and trauma for many communities. The videos have shown graphic acts of violence and while horrifying, are unfortunately not surprising. Our hearts will continue to be with the families and loved ones of the victims.
We urge our allies to speak out against these acts of violence and be active bystanders. We also condemn and are saddened by the divisive conversations that call for more policing and perpetuate anti-Black racism. We will fight for community-based solutions that do not continue to preserve systemic racism and white supremacy.
Fortunately, our resilient staff has been surrounded by the support of so many wonderful and inspiring partners and community members. We look forward to continuing to learn, evolve, and build solidarity in this work, in hopes that one day, we will fulfill our vision of seeing a world where equity and justice exist for all.
Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with a gift to New Mexico Asian Family Center today!