APISU is now AASU

University of Washington
Monday - January 13, 2003

Today we announce that APISU (Asian Pacific Islander Student Union) will change its name to Asian American Student Union (AASU).

For decades, Asians and Pacific Islanders have been lumped together into one group, as recognized by the U.S. government and much of the public in general. However, in recent years, Pacific Islanders have voiced their desire to represent themselves and to earn recognition for their identity. The directors of APISU have chosen to honor the wishes of the PI community, and on January 12, 2003, voted in favor of changing our name to AASU. We as AASU feel this will be a positive change, and a move forward in the right direction.

There exist numerous Pacific Islander student organizations on campus that are better able to understand the issues and address the needs of its community. These resources are available from organizations such as the Pacific Islander Student Commission, Filipino American Student Association, Micronesian Island Club, and many others.

Our directors feel that by focusing on Asian American issues, we will do our jobs more effectively and efficiently. However, AASU will continue to support and serve as allies to the Pacific Islander campus community in their efforts.

We will submit the name change to the UW Student Activities Office, but it will take some time for the SAO to process our paperwork. There will be a new AASU web site and email address; until then, please continue to use the current APISU web site and email.

AASU Co-Directors:
Amy Hong, Wendy Lau, Chia-Chi Li, Nien Liu, Joseph Shao, Anthony Wu

ASUW Senator:
Sun Hahm