Barstow prides itself on its diverse student population. In recent years, students have created several clubs to support certain communities, such as the Gender-Sexuality Alliance and the Black Student Union. This year, students have created the Asian American Pacific Islander Alliance (AAPIA).
“I think the club is definitely needed and I’m happy that Lilly made the choice to make it this year. I like that the club is open to celebrating so many different holidays and events because the Asian American identity is so diverse,” Avani Lakkireddy (‘24) said.
“AAPIA aims to support Asian American students, but it can also serve to enrich those wanting to learn about the culture but don’t know where to start, or how to go about it,” Lilly Kennedy-Gregg (‘24) said. She is the president of this organization. “I’m hoping that AAPIA can bring some representation for Asian students and education to others at Barstow and that when even I’ve graduated that it will continue to exist!”
This club has garnered a fair amount of support from students. It has about 32 members, and more keep joining. AAPIA meets every Friday during lunch and after lunch flex in Ms. Lea’s room. It is a big enough space for all of its members and also for the many activities that will happen throughout the school year.
It has already accomplished a lot in a short amount of time, such as a past event where students got to make spring rolls and desserts. AAPI Secretary Alexandra Huynh (‘24) was the one who organized the spring roll event and brought in all the supplies to let students experience making a spring roll.
Along with the spring roll event, there have been a few planned events such as a Diwali celebration and a Chinese New Year celebration, which will happen later on in the school year. Hopefully, more students will suggest holidays to celebrate as the year progresses.
“I think it’s amazing what we’ve been able to accomplish in such a short span of time with the spring roll event and a Diwali celebration in the works,” Kennedy-Gregg said.
There are also a few outside-of-school events that the club has promoted. One of the most popular events in Kansas City that celebrates Asian heritage is the Lunar New Year celebration at the Nelson Atkins Museum. In one of the early meetings, there was a suggestion for the club to go to the Museum as a fun, educational activity outside of school.
Join and support the Asian American Pacific Islander Association for fun activities and to learn more about the many cultures around Asia and the Pacific Islands.
