Executive Order 13515 requires federal agencies to form plans in order to improve the participation in and access to federal programs for underserved AAPIs. Spearheading the order is the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Interagency Working Group (IWG). Plans in twenty-three participating agencies, such as the Department of Education, Department of Health and Human Services, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and more, have been developed over a four-month period.
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke asserts, “From health disparities and language access to data disaggregation and bullying/harassment, AAPIs have unique needs that the federal government will make every effort to address.”
Furthermore, Initiative Executive Director Kiran Ahuja proclaims, “The agency plans will drive the Administration’s effort to improve the quality of life for AAPIs. In order for the federal government to take meaningful steps, it is crucial that people go online, view the plans, and provide feedback.”
The plans are to be released throughout all of February. For more information, to view participating agencies, or to offer feedback, please visit http://www.aapi.gov/.
By: Amy Lieu
Source: http://www.asianweek.com/2011/01/27/federal-agencies-plan-to-increase-aapi-access-to-government/
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