Kundiman would like to send a big, heartfelt thanks to all of you who make our community a beacon of care and support to emerging Asian American writers and lovers of Asian American literature.

On October 21st, we were treated to a special evening hosted by Kundiman fellow, Seema Yasmin, and we are so happy that we were able to include so many more community members near and far through this unique virtual platform.

Thanks to all who took part in our event by attending the program, sending gifts, and bidding on the magnificent items offered through our online auction. Thank you for being present. Thank you for witnessing the warm welcome from Kundiman's Executive Director, Cathy Linh Che; such fabulous readings by Ken Leung, Ali Ewoldt, Courtney Reed, Daniel K Isaac, Vinny Chhibber, and Aparna Nancherla; heartwarming remarks from our co-founders Joseph and Sarah; and a lovely chat between Ligaya Mishan and Angela Dimayuga.

From Vinny’s remarks about being seen to Ali and Courtney’s messages of acceptance and hope, there were so many moments that stuck with me throughout the evening. However, the words that summarize the evening to me were by Aparna Nancherla.

In her closing remarks, Aparna reflected on her own experience coming up as a performer saying that "we're not alone, and we don't all have the same stories, regardless of what the culture at large has tried to do by flattening our identities. I think it's the power to tell these wide range of experiences and share them with each other that makes arts and literature so cathartic and heart expanding."

With your help we were able to raise $36,084.00 of our $34,000.00 goal and we couldn't have done it without your help. There's still time to make your contribution in honor of this heartwarming event through our donation page here.

Thank you so much for co-creating spaces our community deserves. We look forward to seeing you all soon, virtually or otherwise.