AANAPISI Get Involved

AAPI Courses#

San Diego Mesa offers is the few colleges in the nation to offer multiple AAPI related courses. Stay tuned as we develop our AAPI program award!

• AAPI 124 - Introduction to AAPI Studies

  This course is an introduction to Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Studies and the evolution of the disciplines within the field of Ethnic Studies. Emphasis is placed on the formation of AAPI identities, and the experiences of AAPI communities through the lens of equity, self-determination, liberation, decolonization, and antiracism. Topics include AAPI engagement with the U.S. political and legal system and the US Constitution, California state and local governments, immigration legislation, white supremacy, and settler colonialism; historical and contemporary AAPI social justice movements to address anti-Asian violence; transnational familial and community politics; and the intersection of race, class, gender, and sexuality in the formation and development of AAPI communities in the United States. This course is intended for all students interested in Asian American and Pacific Islander Studies.

  3 Units | UC Transfer | CSU Transfer
• AAPI 125 | Asian American and Pacific Islander Identities and Cultures

  This course explores the identity formation and the ongoing experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) through an analysis of culture and power. Students will examine how cultural productions – literature, film, visual art, music, performance, museums, national monuments and memorials, among others – produce ideas, stories, values and ideologies in different moments during the history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Using various methods of cultural inquiry, students explore how race, class, gender, sexuality, immigration status and indigeneity together produce intricate arrangements of power in U.S. society as well as how Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders politicize(d) themselves through their cultural expressions. This course is designed for all students interested in Asian American and Pacific Islander Studies.

  3 Units | UC Transfer | CSU Transfer
• AAPI 130 | Asian American and Pacific Islander Women

  This course is an introduction to the interdisciplinary study of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women in American society. The course explores AAPI women’s lived experiences as shaped by race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, immigration status, and other aspects of identity. Emphasis is placed on AAPI feminist scholarship; cultural productions and practices; immigration, refugee, and diasporic experiences; and resistance to various systems of oppression such as racism, sexism, classism, (neo)colonialism, militarism, imperialism, and global capitalism. The course is designed for all students interested in Women’s and Gender Studies as well as those interested in Asian American Pacific Islander Studies.

  3 Units | UC Transfer | CSU Transfer
• FILI 100 | Filipino American Experience

  This course is an overview of the history, cultures, values, contributions, experiences, and social struggles of Filipinos in America. Students apply theory and knowledge produced by the Filipino American community to analyze the history and lived experiences of Filipino Americans in relation to integration, acculturation, social struggles, and ethnic identity and affirmation. Students also critically evaluate the role of race and racism in Filipino American communities and experiences as well as the relevance of resistance, racial and social justice, and solidarity to current U.S. institutions and structures. This course is intended for anyone interested in the field of Ethnic Studies or the history and experiences of Filipino Americans.

  3 Units

Meet the Instructors#

SD Mesa AAPI Community Canvas Shell#

One major challenge for many community college students is the commitment to engaged with in-person activities due to conflicting commitments such as (work or family). The canvas shell is an online hub to stay in the loop and build community!

Student Organizations#

Mesa currently haves four AAPI related student organizations (clubs). These clubs are organized gathering of students coming together for a common interest whether you would like to learn more about AAPI culture, practice an art or craft, check out these organizations. If you don’t see an organization, start one by contacting AS!

• Aikido Club: Japanese Self-defense Martial Art

  Learn effective self-defense. Create harmony and peace of mind. Develop discipline, courage, and dignity. Achieve physical, mental, and emotional strength

• Asian Pacific Diversity

  Providing a safe space for the Asian, Asian American, Pacific Islander populations and AAPI allies at Mesa College

• Japan Club

  こんにちは！Interested in all things Japan? Join the Mesa Japan Club! Open to all, MJC is the club for learning all about Japanese culture, life, and language.

• Lion Dance Club
• AAPI Men of Color Support Group

  Nearly AAPI Men of Color enroll, graduate, and transfer lower than many of their counterparts. In response, we provide intrusive services to support our AAPI Men of Color.

AAPI Resources Across SDCCD#

Asian American and Pacific Islander Collective

Your journey doesn't stop at one campus - our sister colleges within the district also offer programs, clubs, and resources that uplift Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander communities. From cultural events and learning communities to leadership opportunities and student support services, you can connect, collaborate, and grow across all our campuses. Discover what's happening at Miramar and City College - because our collective strength is built together.

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San Diego City College

San Diego City College is committed to supporting Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) students in various ways, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. This support begins with a welcoming and inclusive campus environment, where students from AAPI backgrounds can feel comfortable and valued. You belong here!

Inclusive City Achievement Network (ICAN)

The Inclusive City Achievement Network (ICAN) is a learning community at San Diego City College that supports Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) students. ICAN helps students succeed by offering courses that highlight AAPI perspectives, along with dedicated academic and mental health counseling. To learn more about ICAN, check out the ICAN Instagram, or please contact Kirin Macapugay at [email protected].

Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI)

San Diego City College is honored to be a designated Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI) by the U.S. Department of Education. We focus on enhancing academic programs, fostering cultural awareness, and promoting social justice.

AANHPI Connections Center

The Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Connections Center is a space where all students can access resources that support their academic success, personal growth, and help them feel supported and connected on campus.

Student Club: Asian & Pacific Islander Student Alliance (APSA)

The Asian and Pacific Islander Student Allicance as San Diego City College is a vibrant and inclusive student ogranization that brings together individuals from diverse AAPI backgrounds to create a supportive and engaging community on campus. To learn more, please contact Nora Hinsley at [email protected]

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San Diego Miramar College

PEARL Program

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Past AAPI Events

Coming soon!

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Demographics

The San Diego Community College District, its colleges, and Continuing Education are committed to reflecting the student demographis we serve.

Events#

View full calendar of events