Dear Sparks readers and supporters,
May 1, 2020 marks the beginning of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM) where communities around the country celebrate the achievements and contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. The team at Sparks Magazine is excited to recognize and celebrate our community’s rich history and diversity with resources and exciting releases coming throughout the month.
For the past 10 years, Sparks Magazine’s mission has been to provide a platform for APIA students to develop their voice and identity. In celebrating APAHM, we continue our efforts to empower APIA college students with the release of our 18th issue. Our Spring issue will showcase the collaborative work of our chapters at the University of Florida, University of Central Florida and University of South Florida. The stories include a discussion on interracial dating, the challenges facing APIA women in STEM, and a deep dive into an Iranian American’s experience following the death of Qasam Soleimani.
I am personally excited for our readers to enjoy this issue. Our staff has dealt with incredible challenges in completing this issue due to the effects of COVID-19 closing their campuses in March. They have been creative, resourceful, and focused in finishing this issue and dedicated in providing our community with empowering stories during these times of uncertainty. Additionally, we will be sharing behind the scenes conversations and content with our editor-in-chiefs and staff.
For the past 10 years, Sparks Magazine’s mission has been to provide a platform for APIA students to develop their voice and identity. In celebrating APAHM, we continue our efforts to empower APIA college students with the release of our 18th issue.
Aside from our Spring issue release, we will be highlighting the essential contributions young APIA leaders have made during the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout APAHM, we will be profiling the courageous and important work Asian Americans have made to support their local communities. COVID-19 has brought significant struggles and safety concerns to our community. There has been an increase in hate crimes and prejudice targeting the APIA population. We hope that these stories can provide a feeling of positivity and light during this difficult time.
It is now more important than ever to unite as a community and focus on our health and safety. Sparks Magazine has also put together a resource page for Florida and the general APIA community that focuses on reporting hate crimes, staying mentally healthy, and various COVID-19 related information.
The team at Sparks Magazine is excited to celebrate APAHM with our readers and supporters and bring some light as we continue to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope that you will celebrate APAHM with us, read our Spring 18th issue, and share how you are celebrating by tagging us on social media or using the hashtag #SparksAPAHM!
Yours,
Jason Liu
Sparks Magazine Executive Director
