What we’re about
At first glance, it seems like there is little to no Asian presence in St. Louis. But that's just not true. Let's explore St. Louis together to learn about the ways Asian Americans are here and deeply connected in the community.
We hope to see:
- All stories of Asians in America tied into the larger community of Asian America
- Exposure to the racial history of Asians in America and how that impacts us
- A deeper desire for liberation in our community that leads to collaboration with other communities
- Ultimately, a greater sense of joy in our lived experiences to just freely be in St. Louis.
There will be a variety of events for all types of people. Community speakers, restaurant hunting, bar hopping, game nights, and community service are just a few things we hope to see happen. If there are things you want to try, shoot us a message, and we can make it an event!
For our Asian American friends, we are glad you are here and excited to meet you! I just want to clarify that Asian Americans come from all backgrounds: multiracial, adoptee, South/Southeast Asian, coastal, first/second/third generation, etc. Whatever your story is, you are welcome!
Non-Asian friends, welcome! We are excited for you to learn and hang out with us. Although the content for this group will be centered around Asian America, we know that we are not an isolated community and are deeply connected with the rest of STL. I believe the more we learn about Asian Americans, the more we realize how much we need each other to be a better community.
By building real connections with individuals and businesses, we can see St. Louis become a place where Asian Americans from all walks of life are excited to live here.
----------------------Disclaimer----------------------
What this group will not become:
- A dating app: due to the fetishization of Asians in various forms, this group will not be focused on dating. If any member is feeling uncomfortable due to unwanted advances, please report to admin. Reported member may be removed from the group.
- Kpop/Anime club: Although I love anime and Kpop, this group may not be for you if that is your only desire to learn about Asian America. Glad those things have made it into mainstream America, but the Asian American experience has a lot more to it.
If you find that a member who you have not met reaching out to you in hopes to make an unsolicited romantic advance, please email stl.panasiancollective@gmail.com to report this person. An admin will reach out to this person to clarify the purpose of this group and to ensure this is a safe place for all.
Hopefully, this does not make this group seem super strict. These items ensure a more comfortable space for Asian Americans who have felt limited in their interests/being based on racial generalizations and stereotypes. Hope this allows for this space to be fun and open to all that truly cares about Asian America!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- RSVP: Community Meeting: Healthcare AccessibilityUniversity City Library, University City, MO
Join us for STL PAC and VAF's second joint community meeting, where we’ll discuss, learn, and plan how to better support the Asian American community! These monthly gatherings are a great chance to connect with others in St. Louis and get inspired by the often-overlooked work happening around us.
This month’s focus is healthcare accessibility. We’d love for you, your family, and friends to share your experiences with accessing healthcare—whether it’s opportunities or challenges related to cost, language, or other barriers. We’ll also have a speaker to share their work and discuss how we can tackle these issues together.
To keep things affordable, we’re doing a potluck! If you cannot bring a dish, no worries—just come and enjoy! If you are able to, you can sign up here to let us know what you’re bringing (homemade or store-bought), or add it in the comments if you’re not using Google.
We will share questions to think about for this event leading up to the event below. Can't wait to see you all!
- Very Asian Youth Concert (Time TBD)St. Louis Art Museum, St. Louis, MO
The Asian American Civic Scholars (AACS) will be putting on a concert in hopes to raise funds for the Very Asian Foundation's May Book Project. Bring a book to donate as your admission or scan the QR code at the welcoming table to donate.
More information to be posted as the date gets closer.
