NAPABA hosted its annual Lobby Day on May 19-20, 2026, bringing together members of their community from across the country to Washington, DC in a celebration and demonstration of the power of their bar during AANHPI Heritage Month. In meetings with congressional representatives and their staffers, attorneys, law students, and leaders from the NAPABA community advocated for advancing the civil rights of the AANHPI community, a fair immigration system, and defending the rule of law.
Highlights of Lobby Day Include:
Robust Representation
With participants hailing from over 20 states, and the District of Columbia, taking part in over 70 meetings with congressional offices on both sides of the aisle, NAPABA demonstrated its strength and its commitment to amplifying AANHPI voices in the halls of power.
Advocacy Training Prior to the meetings, NAPABA held a training session featuring congressional staffers from both sides of the aisle who spoke with both expertise and passion about the bills their members have introduced or sponsored. Attendees also heard from advocacy veterans on strategies and techniques to more effectively communicate NAPABA’s priorities and the needs of AANHPI communities and the legal profession.
Policy Priorities Throughout multiple meetings, participants advocated for issues of importance to AANHPI communities and the legal profession. They focused on codifying longstanding language access protections for the millions of limited English proficient persons in the United States, including the significant portions of the Asian American immigrant populations, as documented by the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. NAPABA stood up for access to counsel at various stages of the immigration and entry processes to the United States, and for judicial security in order to better support the rule of law.
Meaningful Engagements Attendees met with numerous lawmakers and their staff, fostering meaningful dialogues, and building relationships that will be instrumental in advancing policy objectives. NAPABA Lobby Day participants skillfully articulated their positions, presented compelling arguments, and shared personal stories to humanize the issues that they face. On the evening before their training at their Congressional Reception on Capitol Hill, participants heard from leaders in their community directly, including NAPABA Trailblazers Sen. Mazie Hirono (HI) and S.E.C. Commissioner Mark T. Uyeda.
In a time of great uncertainty and a rapidly shifting policy landscape, NAPABA demonstrated the power of its members during a Lobby Day built around a unifying agenda of language access, a sensible and fair immigration system and support for the rule of law. Member-constituents braved the heat to visit engage with key Congressional offices across the Capitol complex and called on their elected representatives to support policies that advance their communities. Lobby Day is another great reminder that NAPABA is the national voice of the AANHPI legal community, and that we can stand together for the betterment of our communities, for the rule of law we have dedicated our livelihoods to, and for the nation we cherish.
WASHINGTON – The National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) congratulates Judge Reynaldo A. Aligada, Jr. on his appointment to the Minnesota Supreme Court. Judge Aligada becomes the first Asian Pacific American justice in Minnesota’s history.
“Judge Reynaldo Aligada’s historic appointment to the Minnesota Supreme Court marks a milestone for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) legal community and beyond,” said NAPABA President Joseph Yao. “As NAPABA’s Portrait Project 2.0 found, Asian American jurists are underrepresented on state high courts. Judge Aligada has broken barriers, and his appointment marks an incredible achievement for our legal community and beyond.”
Judge Aligada currently serves on Minnesota’s Second Judicial District Court. Prior to joining the bench, he served as First Assistant Federal Defender in Minneapolis and previously practiced at Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi LLP. He clerked for Judge Michael J. Davis of the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota and Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Judge Aligada earned his B.A. from Saint John’s University and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law, now the Mitchell Hamline School of Law.
“Through his many roles in the community, including with the Community Outreach Committee of the Federal Bar Association and many bar associations like the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association (MNAPABA), Judge Aligada has demonstrated a deep commitment public service,” said Priya Purandare, Executive Director of NAPABA. “His groundbreaking appointment highlights the importance of ensuring that those in the AANHPI legal community are recognized, supported, and elevated to positions of leadership across the country.”
“Judge Aligada is a brilliant and skilled jurist and, importantly, a wonderful human being. These qualities, along with his background and experience, make him a phenomenal choice to serve as a justice on the Minnesota Supreme Court,” said Valerie Narcy, President of MNAPABA. “This moment comes against the backdrop of a long and challenging history for AANHPI communities. From legislation excluding Chinese immigrants, to the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, to anti-Asian hate during the COVID-19 pandemic, to the more recent actions against birthright citizenship, our community has often been left to wonder about our place in American society. Judge Aligada’s appointment is a reminder that our place is here and that our community is well-woven into the historic tapestry of Minnesota and this country.”
NAPABA extends its sincere congratulations to Judge Reynaldo Aligada and wishes him success in his service on the Minnesota Supreme Court.
In celebration of AAPI Heritage Month this year, AABANY is presenting or co-sponsoring several events this month. We hope to see you all there! Follow the links for more details, and please note the registration deadlines. This blog post will be updated throughout the month, as new events get added on, so check back for any updates.
May 2, 2026
AABANY Co-Sponsors: Korean Hat Day at Yankee Stadium
1:35pm – Yankees Stadium, 1 E. 161 E. 161st Street
This event has already occurred.
May 3, 2026
AABANY Sunday Run Day
11:00 am – Start at Bedford Ave (L); End at Canal St. & Chrystie St. This event is preparation for the May 23 AAPI 5k run.
This event has already occurred.
May 5-7, 2026
Asian Comedy Fest 2026: AABANY Discount Available
7pm and 9pm – Sugar Mouse NYC, 47 3rd Avenue, Lower Level, New York, NY 10003
This event has already occurred.
May 6, 2026
AABANY Co-Sponsors: Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together
1:00 pm – Kings County Supreme Court, Criminal Term, Courtroom 2.95, 320 Jay Street, Brooklyn, New York 11201
This event has already occurred.
May 6, 2026
AABANY Co-Sponsors: Beginner’s Mahjong
6:00pm – Sparrow’s Nest Studio, 35 W. 35th Street, 12th Floor, New York, NY 10018
This event has already occurred.
May 6, 2026
AABANY Presents: Dumplings & Discussion Series Featuring Judge Pamela K. Chen
6:00pm -Midtown location – to be emailed to registrants.
This event has already occurred.
May 9, 2026
AABANY Bi-Monthly Brooklyn Pro Bono Legal Clinic
12:30 pm – 2:30 pm – CPC Brooklyn Community Services, 4101 8th Ave, Brooklyn, New York 11232
This event has already occurred.
May 10, 2026
AABANY Sunday Run Day
11:00 am – Start at Bedford Ave (L); End at Canal St. & Chrystie St. This event is preparation for the May 23 AAPI 5k run.
This event has already occurred.
May 12, 2026
AABANY Co-Sponsors: Reflections of Unity and Strength in our AANHPI Communities
12:30pm – Queens Supreme Court – Civil Term, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Ceremonial Courtroom 25, Jamaica, New York 11435
This event has already occurred.
May 16, 2026
AABANY Presents: 3rd Annual Wellness Retreat
10:00 am – 5:00 pm – Blue Cliff Monastery, 3 Mindfulness Rd, Pine Bush, New York 12566
This event has already occurred.
May 16, 2026
AABANY Co-Sponsors: Asian Americans and the Law, Featuring Hon. Denny Chin
2pm – White Plains Public Library, 100 Martine Avenue, White Plains, New York 10601
Join NAPABA, NAPABA members, and community leaders from across the country to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month at NAPABA’s Congressional Reception!
This widely attended event will bring together Members of Congress, their staff, and leaders in the AANHPI community. Previous speakers have included Sen. Mazie Hirono, Rep. Judy Chu, and CAPAC Chair Grace Meng.
This event is free and open to the public!
Don’t miss this opportunity to network with peers and connect directly with policymakers from both the Senate and the House.
Registration is open for NAPABA’s Lobby Day, and we want your voice!
Each year, NAPABA brings the AANHPI legal community to Capitol Hill to advocate directly with Congressional leaders and elevate the issues impacting our communities. Lobby Day is a powerful opportunity to turn your commitment into action and ensure your perspectives are heard and represented at the national level.
Why Participate?
Engage directly with Members of Congress and their staff
Receive advocacy training and issue briefings to prepare you for Capitol Hill
Connect with AANHPI attorneys and leaders from across the country
Represent and elevate your community’s voice at the national level
NAPABA is committed to ensuring that Lobby Day is accessible to members from all backgrounds and career stages. To support this goal, we offer limited travel and lodging support for active members who would otherwise face financial barriers to attending. Click the button below to learn more and apply for a stipend. The deadline to apply for a stipend is Tuesday, March 17, at 8:00 pm ET.
As part of Lobby Day, NAPABA will equip you with the tools and resources you need to be an effective advocate and share your participation in this important event. After registering, be sure to use our toolkit to share on your social media channels and invite others to join you.
For Immediate Release: January 23, 2026 Contact: Rahat N. Babar, Deputy Executive Director
WASHINGTON – The National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) applauds the introduction of the Language Access for All Act of 2026 in Congress. The bill, if enacted, would ensure that all individuals have meaningful access to critical Federal services, regardless of English proficiency.
In March 2025, President Donald Trump revoked Executive Order 13166 and designated English as the official language of the United States. For nearly 25 years, EO 13166 required that every federal agency meet the needs of individuals with limited English proficiency when it delivers critical services. EO 13166 brought the full import of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits entities that receive federal funding from discriminating based on national origin, to life. NAPABA objected to the revocation of EO 13166 at the time and called on Congress to act in response. Following our advocacy efforts, NAPABA welcomes the introduction of the Language Access for All Act of 2026, which would restore the key guarantees of EO 13166.
Language access is particularly important for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community. The majority of the Asian American community are immigrants. Nearly 32% of the community is limited English proficient. The Asian American population is comprised of over 50 different ethnicities and speak over 100 different languages. NAPABA has long championed linguistic access for AANHPI communities in the legal system, including through our groundbreaking report, which highlighted and provided recommendations on the state of language access in federal and state courts and agencies. Every individual deserves access to critical, federally funded services.
NAPABA is grateful to Rep. Grace Meng, the Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, along with Rep. Judy Chu, Rep. Juan Vargas, Rep. Daniel Goldman, for their leadership and introducing the Language Access for All Act of 2026. This action coincides with the anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s historic decision in Lau v. Nichols, 414 U.S. 563 (1974), which recognized the right of English learners to participate meaningfully in public school education and served as a catalyst for language access throughout the Nation. We call on Congress to advance this legislation swiftly.
For Immediate Release: January 21, 2026 Contact: Rahat N. Babar, Deputy Executive Director
WASHINGTON – The National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) congratulates Justice Sanjay T. Tailor on his groundbreaking appointment to serve as a justice on the Illinois Supreme Court.
“Justice Tailor’s appointment marks a historic milestone in NAPABA’s mission for its members, the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) lawyers, and their broader communities,” said Joseph Yao, President of NAPABA. “In 2022, NAPABA’s Portrait Project 2.0 found that only nine Asian American jurists served on state high courts, a number that remained constant until now. As the first Asian American to serve on the Illinois Supreme Court, Justice Tailor has broken barriers and serves as a beacon of achievement for our legal community and for anyone aspiring to such heights.”
Justice Tailor brings more than two decades of judicial experience to the Illinois Supreme Court. He has served for 23 years on Illinois’s trial and appellate courts, including as an Associate Judge and Circuit Judge and, most recently, as a Presiding Justice of the First District Appellate Court. Prior to joining the bench, he served as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Cook County and practiced law in the private sector. Justice Tailor taught as an adjunct professor at Loyola University of Chicago School of Law. He earned his B.A. from the University of Delaware and his J.D., with honors, from Loyola University of Chicago School of Law.
“Through his many leadership roles, including as the president of the Asian American Judges Association of Illinois, and through his engagement with NAPABA affiliates like the Asian American Bar Association of Greater Chicago (AABA Chicago) and the South Asian Bar Association of Chicago (SABA Chicago), Justice Tailor has demonstrated a deep commitment to public service and the community throughout his career,” said Priya Purandare, Executive Director of NAPABA. “His groundbreaking appointment highlights the importance of continued efforts to ensure that those in the AANHPI legal community are recognized, supported, and elevated to positions of leadership across the country.”
“We are proud and thrilled to see Illinois become one of a small number of states that have a judge on its highest court who is Asian American,” said Stephen Lee, President of AABA Chicago. “AABA formed decades ago in part to help Asian American attorneys become judges and to help our judiciary better reflect the people whom it serves, and this is a huge milestone not just for Justice Tailor and Asian American attorneys but for everyone.”
“The South Asian Bar Association of Chicago proudly congratulates Justice Tailor on this historic appointment as the first Asian and South Asian Justice to serve on the Illinois Supreme Court,” said Saman Haque, President of SABA Chicago. “This milestone reflects the strength of our justice system and the importance of representation. As a founding member of SABA Chicago, Justice Tailor has remained steadfast in his commitment to inclusion and equity, and to mentoring and encouraging attorneys to hone their craft. We celebrate this achievement and look forward to the lasting impact of Justice Tailor’s leadership and service.”
NAPABA extends its sincere congratulations to Justice Sanjay Tailor and wishes him continued success in his service on the Illinois Supreme Court.
MINNEAPOLIS / WASHINGTON – The Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association (MNAPABA) and the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) stand firmly in support of the Asian Pacific American and the broader immigrant communities in Minnesota.
On Wednesday, January 7, a federal immigration enforcement agent in Minneapolis shot and killed Renee Good. We send our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones. Press reports indicate that a federal investigation of the tragedy is underway.
The horrific shooting has exacerbated the existing fear and apprehension within immigrant communities across the state, especially as the national discourse recently turned to disparaging comments against immigrants and refugees in Minnesota and elsewhere across the country.
On Friday, January 16, Kaohly Her – the mayor of Saint Paul, Minnesota, and the first woman and first Asian American in the role – stated that her office “received reports of federal law enforcement officers going door-to-door asking people where the Asian people live right now in our very own city.”
The allegations in these reports are immensely disturbing. While the residents of Minnesota have the right to engage in First Amendment activities, and as the federal government increases its presence in the region, MNAPABA and NAPABA unequivocally oppose any instances of racial profiling by government enforcement agents, actions that are incompatible with the rule of law. Instead, such actions endanger the public and diminish trust in law enforcement.
The Minneapolis–Saint Paul region has a vibrant Asian Pacific American community, including one of the largest Hmong populations in the nation. The diverse communities of immigrants and refugees add to the strength and rich tapestry of Minnesota. Their dignity and constitutional rights must be respected.
For additional information, please see MNAPABA’s supplementary statement, which can be found here.
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The National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) represents the interests of more than 80,000 Asian Pacific American (APA) attorneys, judges, law professors, and law students, as well as over 90 national, state, and local APA bar associations. Founded in 1988, NAPABA promotes justice, equity, and opportunity for APA legal professionals and Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. We foster professional development, advocacy, and community involvement.
For Immediate Release: January 15, 2026 Contact: Rahat N. Babar, Deputy Executive Director
WASHINGTON – The National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) congratulates Judge John Truong on his confirmation to serve as an Associate Judge on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.
“Judge John Truong is a talented and experienced litigator who has deep ties to the D.C. legal community,” said Joseph Yao, President of NAPABA. “With a long career in public service, coupled with his leadership in the community – including as a former president of the Asian Pacific American Bar Association of the Greater Washington, D.C. Area (APABA-DC) and a recipient of the NAPABA Best Under 40 Award in 2009 – Judge Truong will be an exceptional addition to the court that serves the Nation’s capital city.”
Prior to his confirmation, Judge Truong was Deputy Chief in the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, where he prosecuted fraud and misconduct cases. He has previously represented federal officials and agencies in civil litigation, prosecuted criminal offenses, and practiced at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP. Judge Truong also taught as an Adjunct Professor at George Washington University Law School. He clerked for Judge Ricardo M. Urbina of the U.S. District Court for D.C. and holds a B.A. from the University of Southern California, an M.A. from American University, and a J.D. from American University’s Washington College of Law.
“Judge Truong is a role model for our legal community. His professional achievements reflect the values that NAPABA works to advance every day,” said Priya Purandare, Executive Director of NAPABA. “We are confident that Judge Truong will continue to serve the community with distinction in this important role.”
NAPABA thanks President Trump for the nomination and the U.S. Senate for its confirmation of Judge Truong.
The Urban Institute, a nonprofit, nonpartisan social and economic policy research organization based in Washington, DC is conducting a study to understand the range of experiences related to precarious housing situations for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs). Building on Urban Institute’s ongoing research, Unlocking Wealth: Homeownership and Upward Mobility for AANHPIs, this study is funded by the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) and focuses on AANHPI individuals and families facing homelessness or housing instability.
If you are part of an organization that serves AANHPIs who experience housing instability or homelessness, please consider participating in this survey. This survey aims to document unmet needs, identify gaps in services and data systems, and provide insights to strengthen policies and practices that better support AANHPI communities experiencing housing challenges.
Ideally, the respondent should be someone who can speak to observed experiences of housing instability or homelessness within AANHPI communities. Participation is entirely voluntary. The survey takes approximately 15 minutes and includes questions focused on housing instability, culturally responsive service delivery, and gaps in existing support systems. Feel free to forward the survey link to anyone at your organization you think can speak on these topics. This survey closes on Friday, January 23rd.
You can learn more about the study and access the Voxco survey through the following link.
