PRESS RELEASE
September 21, 2026
Media Contact: Akayla Snow, Communications Manager
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APAPA Rejects Guilt by Association and Reaffirms Its American Mission
Sacramento, CA – The Asian Pacific American Public Affairs Association (APAPA) is an American, nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to leadership development, civic engagement and public service. APAPA has no organizational relationship with the Chinese government, the Chinese Communist Party or the United Front. No foreign government or political party directs APAPA or its work.
The CBS News report focuses largely on the political contributions, travel, business relationships and other personal activities of individuals associated with APAPA. Those activities do not represent APAPA and should not be attributed to the organization. The report also references Fang Fang in connection with a local collegiate chapter more than a decade ago. APAPA’s current leadership has found no organizational record establishing that she held an official role.
“I started APAPA 25 years ago because I love America and believe in the American Dream,” said C.C. Yin, APAPA Founder and CEO. “Our Founding Fathers created a democracy that depends on citizens taking part, making their voices heard and serving their country. APAPA brings together Americans from across the political spectrum to help people become leaders and give back to this beautiful country. I strongly condemn any effort by any foreign government to interfere in American politics or undermine our democracy.”
Americans should not have to prove their loyalty because of how they look or where their families came from. Casting suspicion on people because of their ancestry, ethnic origin or personal associations - instead of evidence - must stop. Scrutiny of foreign influence must be grounded in verified facts, not stereotypes or guilt by association.
“APAPA is governed by an independent American board, and its decisions are made by its leadership here in the United States,” said Joe Johal, APAPA’s National Governing Board Chair. “No foreign government or political party directs our organization or its work. Personal activities or relationships involving individual members should not be presented as actions of APAPA.”
“Our members and volunteers are Americans who give their time because they believe in public service and want to make their communities and their country stronger,” said Kris Concepcion, APAPA National President. “Their commitment to America should not be questioned based on ancestry, photographs or guilt by association. We are proud of our work and will continue carrying out our mission openly in communities across America.”
For 25 years, APAPA has helped prepare future leaders, expand civic participation and encourage public service. Its programs bring together people from different backgrounds and political perspectives to learn about government, develop leadership skills and serve their communities.
APAPA remains focused on that American mission.
