About Us
OUR HISTORY: Unified Asian Communities (UAC) emerged out of a desire to support the Maine community during a global pandemic. A small group of local organizers formed UAC at the end of 2020 in response to the growing needs of the Asian and Asian American communities in Maine, which were exacerbated greatly by the COVID-19 crisis. Yuri Kochiyama, an Asian American activist who dedicated her life to fighting for human rights and justice, said "We are all part of one another," which inspired us to create a mission that centered unification and belonging.
OUR MISSION: UAC believes that everyone deserves to live in a community that fosters a sense of belonging, values compassion, and supports their neighbors. We aim to unify and empower Asian communities across the globe through civic engagement, community service, and member-led initiatives. That is our mission, and that is what drives us to do this work every day. We believe that unified communities are empowered communities.
WHAT WE DO: The members of UAC have long been entrenched in their communities, doing the day-to-day work on the ground that really helps an individual obtain the things they need to survive in America, whether it be a green card, a job, a doctor's appointment, or a meal. With deep cultural Asian roots, we decided to organize and form UAC with the goal to serve Maine's Asian and Asian American communities and to connect individuals with certain skills to individuals with certain needs.
UAC is composed of a small staff of volunteers, some of whom serve as Cultural Brokers. UAC’s Cultural Brokers are a group of competent and highly driven individuals who have partnered with UAC to engage in cultural exchange and language services. In addition, UAC’s volunteers can provide the following services:
Translation and interpretation assistance
Green Card assistance
Notary services
Short and Long Term Disability Claims
State of Maine Unemployment Assistance
Resume assistance
Referrals
OUR VISION: UAC envisions a world where Asians and Asian Americans stand together in solidarity, sharing knowledge and access, and participate in local movements to promote an inclusive world that celebrates diversity. We strive for a world where everyone, no matter their race, ethnicity, or country of origin, feels “at home” in whichever community they live in. Everyone will have access to the services they need, and have opportunities to actively engage in their communities. UAC hopes to see empowered people lifting up empowered communities.
American cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead once said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." With your help, we will continue to fundraise, advocate, and organize to support our Asian and Asian American communities in Maine.
We hope you introduce yourself to us by getting involved with UAC and subscribing to our mailing list. We are always looking for volunteers. And if you are able, please consider making a donation to our organization by clicking here. Our work is totally dependent on your donations. Please reach out to us if you have any questions!