Local leaders face unique challenges daily as they work to build stronger, more thriving cities, towns and villages for their residents. Having a space to connect with peers who understand those challenges and share similar experiences not only creates opportunities for connection and empowerment but also establishes a strong sense of community and belonging.
The National League of Cities (NLC) Constituency Groups provide local elected officials and their staff a space to network, explore solutions and advocate for the representation of diverse communities. The Asian Pacific American Municipal Officials group, better known as APAMO, is one of six NLC constituency groups that has brought Asian Pacific American municipal leaders and allies together since 1985 to connect, learn from one another’s lived experiences and lead with purpose as a unified voice.
In observance of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, APAMO leaders shared the importance of being part of a network that creates space for peer dialogue, showcases the importance of representation in local government and provides a strong community of support.
As they continue their journey to building thriving, inclusive communities, explore how APAMO has supported and empowered each of them in their work as Asian Pacific American municipal leaders.
Xouhoa Bowen, Councilmember, San Leandro, Calif.
APAMO President
“Being part of APAMO has been both grounding and empowering. It provides a space to connect with other Asian Pacific American municipal leaders who understand the unique challenges and opportunities we navigate in public service.
“Through APAMO, I’ve been able to exchange ideas, access resources and collaborate on policy approaches that directly impact our communities. It also elevates broader awareness of the issues facing AANHPI communities at a national level, helping ensure our perspectives are not overlooked.
“Perhaps most importantly, APAMO creates a sense of community and support. Leadership can be isolating, but having a network that shares lived experience strengthens not only individual leaders but also the communities we serve.”
Jason Moon, Council President, Mukilteo, Wash.
Vice President, APAMO
“What I appreciate most is the sense of shared purpose. APAMO reminds me that we’re not doing this work alone. There are leaders across the country pushing for the same things: belonging, opportunity and a government that actually works for people. That perspective helps me lead with more clarity and confidence, and it makes our community stronger in a very real way.”
Yang Shao, Councilmember, Fremont, Calif.
At Large Board Member, APAMO
“Being a member of APAMO within the National League of Cities has been instrumental in refining the ‘data-driven’ and ‘results-oriented’ approach I bring to local governance. For an Asian Pacific American leader, this network provides more than just a seat at the table — it provides a laboratory for proven solutions that help build a thriving, inclusive community.
“Here are three ways APAMO has specifically supported my work:
1. Collaborative Problem-Solving for Public Safety
APAMO connects leaders facing similar challenges across the country. In my work prioritizing public safety and crime reduction, particularly addressing retail theft, the insights shared by fellow Asian Pacific American (APA) officials have been invaluable.
- National Perspective: Learning how other cities successfully support law enforcement while maintaining community trust allows me to advocate for policies that are both firm and fair.
- Knowledge Exchange: Discussing results-oriented strategies with peers helps me implement data-driven safety measures that protect our local businesses and residents.
2. Strategies for Economic Resilience
- Policy Toolkits: APAMO offers access to specialized resources.
- Eliminating Bureaucracy.
3. Amplifying Community Excellence
- Educational Advocacy: My background in biotechnology and previous experience on the School District Board align with APAMO’s focus on workforce development and educational accountability.
- Cultural Visibility: As we see with events like the AANHPI Heritage Month flag raising and the Asian Heritage Festival, APAMO encourages leaders to champion initiatives that ensure our diverse constituents feel represented in the civic fabric.
“Ultimately, APAMO serves as a powerful bridge between my professional background as a scientist and my civic duty as a councilmember. It reinforces the idea that when APA leaders collaborate, we can create more efficient, safer and more prosperous cities for everyone.”
Kashef Qaadri, Councilmember, Dublin, Calif.
Secretary, APAMO
“Membership in APAMO has been instrumental in my growth as a leader by connecting me with a dedicated network of Asian Pacific American municipal officials. This organization provides a vital platform to share strategies for building thriving, inclusive communities that are truly responsive to the needs of AANHPI residents. The insights and mentorship I receive from APAMO help me navigate the complexities of local government with a focus on representation. This professional community ensures that I am better equipped to lead Dublin in a way that honors our heritage while driving progress for every member of our city.”
Vivian Nguyen, Councilor, Everett, Mass.
APAMO Member
“As the first Asian American woman elected in my city, I understand how meaningful representation can be for residents who want to feel seen, heard and reflected in local government. APAMO has given me something deeply important in that work: a community I can turn to.
“There are not always many elected officials who share similar lived experiences or who are working through the same questions around cultural representation, language access, resident engagement and inclusive public service. Being part of APAMO reminds me that I do not have to figure everything out alone. I have access to leaders across the country who are already building strong models in their own communities and who can offer guidance, support and practical advice.
“That shared knowledge helps me serve Everett with more confidence and intention. It gives me a place to learn from established best practices, bring those lessons home and continue building a city where residents feel informed, represented and able to participate fully in civic life.”
Find Your Community with APAMO
APAMO welcomes new members at any time throughout the year. There is no extra cost for NLC members to join APAMO; non-members pay a $75 supporting member fee per year.
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