USAAF 2019: Collective // Memories

The 2019 United States of Asian American Festival (USAAF) features individual artists, arts groups, and arts organizations presenting works that acknowledge and honor the rich tapestry of collective histories shared by Asians and Pacific Islanders in America. This year’s theme, COLLECTIVE // MEMORIES, stands as a powerful statement of recognition for the tragic losses and critical legacies of long-time leaders in the Bay Area’s API and arts communities. It explores:

• Celebrating and remembering Asian and Pacific Islanders who have made lasting cultural contributions in our communities.

• Empowered community building during times of loss and turmoil to create spaces of sanctuary and healing.

• Honoring our shared histories as Asians and Pacific Islanders in America and how they inform our present and our futures.

This year, positioned in a poignant moment of looking back, the festival is a cultivation and celebration of Asian Pacific Islander memory-making in response to the need for collective healing.