Welcome Our New Board Chair
Dear Community,
It is with great honor and excitement that I introduce myself as the new Board Chair of Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta. My personal journey, rooted in the Vietnamese immigrant experience, profoundly shapes my commitment to Advancing Justice-Atlanta’s cause and gives me deep empathy for the struggles our communities face. When I came to the United States as a young child, my parents carried nothing but bold dreams and unwavering courage, while navigating a new language, culture, and environment to create opportunity for a better life. Their tireless dedication, working multiple jobs while my father pursued his college degree, instilled in me the enduring power of perseverance and sacrifice. To this day, my heart swells with immense pride at the memory of his triumph over significant obstacles to earn his engineering degree. These foundational experiences have given me a deep empathy for the struggles many in our community face, and they fuel my passion for the important work this organization undertakes every day.
New Board Chair, Tressa Copenhaver
While our hearts are heavy as we bear witness to large-scale immigrant enforcement escalating across Georgia and the South, tearing families apart and stripping away civil liberties, Advancing Justice-Atlanta refuses to stand by. We are on the front lines, mobilizing communities, challenging abusive practices, and defending the rights of those targeted. Yet we know the road ahead is long, and the fight for justice is far from over. Together, I remain hopeful that we can increase our impact, ensuring that every voice is heard, every person is valued, and every barrier is challenged.
As I begin this new chapter as Board Chair, I invite you to join us for our annual fundraiser gala, Lights & Lanterns: A Night for Advancing Justice, on Saturday, October 18 at Georgia Aquarium. This special evening is more than a celebration; it’s an opportunity for all of us to come together in support of a shared vision for justice. When our communities face unprecedented challenges, your support is more vital than ever. We hope you’ll join us and we’d love for you to share this invite with your family, friends, and colleagues!
Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. I am excited to embark on this journey with you as I know that together, we will continue to create meaningful, lasting change for our communities.
With hope and gratitude,
Tressa Copenhaver
Board Chair
Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta
