Renewing Connections 2023 Review

A buzz filled the air upstairs at the Harborview Bar and Restaurant on the evening of September 19 – the sound of PAAWBAC guests happily greeting old friends and enthusiastically meeting new people. The PAAWBAC Board was thrilled that this networking reception, our first in-person gathering since 2019, held true to its theme, “Renewing Connections.” In addition to connecting or re-connecting with others, attendees eagerly played the icebreaker game, bought raffle tickets for the many prizes on display, and nibbled on tasty appetizers.

PAAWBAC Board Member Kathy Lee opened the program, noting that the organization was founded 43 years ago, and introduced two of the founders in the audience, Caryl Ito and Carole Jan Lee (Kathy’s mom). She also introduced members of the PAAWBAC Board, and recognized the several Woman Warrior and Monarch awardees in attendance. 

Caryl Ito spoke about PAAWBAC being formed around a kitchen table in 1980, at a time when women made only 65 cents to the dollar that men earned. She observed that, since women now still only earn 82 cents to the dollar, progress has been quite slow. Worse yet, rights that women had worked so hard to attain are being eroded, as evidenced by the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Caryl emphasized the need for groups like PAAWBAC to remain vigilant. It was an honor to have one of our founders speak about today's climate and recount PAAWBAC's rich history.

Kathy reviewed PAAWBAC’s activities over the years, including honoring 14 classes of Women Warriors and 6 groups of Monarchs; hosting seminars and programs; funding educational scholarships, grants to community groups, and mentorships. She noted that in contrast to the lack of opportunities for API women in 1980, they have since broken many barriers, most notably in government positions. However, in light of the recent growth of verbal and physical violence against Asian Pacific Islanders, she had to echo Caryl’s sentiments about keeping up the fight to maintain the gains we have made.

Kathy talked about the Board’s work over the past few years, which included donating to organizations actively fighting against API hate, reviving its periodic newsletters, overhauling its website, and funding local groups also seeking to uplift API women and children. Looking forward, Kathy announced that the PAAWBAC Board intends to continue the long tradition of recognizing high-achieving women who are also dedicated to their community with the Woman Warrior awards. The Board is also committed to restarting a mentorship program in the future.

After allowing for more time to mingle and buy raffle tickets, the evening concluded with a raffle drawing. PAAWBAC is grateful for the generosity of the following donors:

Yina
Socola Chocolatier
Cassava
Eyemimo
Golden Bear Sportswear
Gram Cafe & Pancakes
Jade Chocolates Tea House and Cafe
KGO-TV
Life
Madelicious