Policy
The Policy Department supports legislation that aligns with DAY’s values in education, healthcare, and human & civil rights. We work at the intersection of advocacy and policy to create systemic change that benefits Asian youth and marginalized communities.
Our Mission
Section titled “Our Mission”We translate DAY’s values into concrete policy action by supporting progressive legislation, building relationships with decision-makers, and mobilizing community engagement. Through strategic advocacy, we work to create lasting structural change that advances equity and justice.
Focus Areas
Section titled “Focus Areas”1. Education
Section titled “1. Education”- Advocate for inclusive curricula that accurately represent Asian and Asian American history
- Support policies that address educational equity and access
- Champion ethnic studies programs and culturally responsive teaching
- Address discrimination and bias in educational settings
2. Healthcare
Section titled “2. Healthcare”- Support mental health resources and culturally competent care
- Advocate for accessible, affordable healthcare for all communities
- Address health disparities affecting Asian communities
- Champion reproductive rights and bodily autonomy
3. Human & Civil Rights
Section titled “3. Human & Civil Rights”- Combat hate crimes and discrimination against Asian communities
- Support immigration reform and immigrant rights
- Advocate for racial justice and equity
- Defend civil liberties and constitutional rights
What We Do
Section titled “What We Do”Legislative Advocacy
Section titled “Legislative Advocacy”- Bill Support - Research, analyze, and lobby for bills aligned with our values
- Position Statements - Develop organizational positions on key legislation
- Coalition Building - Partner with aligned organizations for collective advocacy
- Grassroots Mobilization - Engage community members in advocacy efforts
Relationship Building
Section titled “Relationship Building”- Legislative Partnerships - Build and maintain relationships with legislators at local, state, and federal levels
- Stakeholder Engagement - Connect with advocacy organizations and community leaders
- Expert Consultation - Collaborate with policy experts and legal professionals
- Community Input - Center community voices in policy development
Dear Asian Youth Day
Section titled “Dear Asian Youth Day”- Host Dear Asian Youth Day as a signature advocacy event
- Coordinate meetings between youth advocates and legislators
- Provide civic engagement opportunities for community members
- Create visibility for youth-led advocacy efforts
Core Principles
Section titled “Core Principles”- Evidence-Based - Policy positions grounded in research and data
- Community-Centered - Centering impacted communities in advocacy
- Intersectional - Addressing overlapping systems of oppression
- Youth-Led - Amplifying young voices in policy conversations
- Proactive - Taking initiative on emerging issues, not just responding
Current Priorities
Section titled “Current Priorities”- Anti-hate crime legislation and enforcement
- Mental health resources and destigmatization
- Educational equity and inclusive curricula
- Immigration reform and protection
- Reproductive justice and healthcare access