Deadline: Sunday, Nov. 29, 2026
We are excited to welcome our next cohort to the nation’s capital this June for SEARAC’s Leadership and Advocacy Training (LAT) program. Together, we will build power and cultivate leadership on issues affecting Southeast Asian American (SEAA) communities. Apply to LAT today!
About LAT
LAT is a three-day training program that will take place in Washington, DC, from June 7-9, 2027. Participants will learn and build community in a cohort of other emerging SEAA advocates and allies.The key goals are for participants to learn about the core issues affecting the SEAA community and to gain the advocacy skills needed to advance those issues at a federal level. The program will culminate with participants utilizing those skills in direct advocacy meetings with members of Congress and staff who hold decision-making positions on those issues. Travel, lodging, and meals during the program will be provided.
Our ideal LAT candidate is:
- A beginner in federal advocacy (i.e., political engagement with the US Senate and/or House of Representatives),
- Interested in learning about federal policies that affect the SEAA community,
- Highly motivated to advocate for the SEAA community, and
- At least 18 years old.
Application instructions
LAT has no advocacy, workplace, or educational requirements.
Our application asks for either a short (approximately 500 words or less) written essay or a short (approximately 5 minutes or less) video essay. No format will be weighed more or less than the other; we simply ask that you provide a clear vision of why you are applying to LAT.
Applications are due Sunday, Nov. 29, 2026, at 11:59 pm ET / 8:59 pm PT.
Disclaimer
We recognize that the current political environment in Washington, DC may be particularly dangerous and triggering for a number of community members who identify as immigrants and/or LGBTQ+. A part of the LAT experience is entering into federal spaces such as Capitol Hill, which may be prone to heightened surveillance and enforcement. We urge participants to weigh these factors carefully as you consider personal safety and comfort in applying for this year’s program. If you choose to proceed with applying at this time but have any concerns that you would like the SEARAC team to take note of, kindly include in your application essay.
