Support for culturally competent mental health care

Person holds sign saying My Mental Health Matters

More research, community outreach, language and access support, diverse providers, and funding are needed on SEAA health and mental health.

Key resources:

SEARAC and FIRM staffs standing in front of a backdrop.

Featured story

David's headshot

“Having mental illness’ translated to Khmer is ‘crazy’ or ‘psychotic,’ making those terms weigh very heavily when heard.”

The Cambodian Family
Mary holds a shovel at a field

“The services at HCCBC are important, because I do not feel judged [here]. The recreational group that I attend is comfortable and like no other [support] group because the staff speaks my native language and respect who I am.”

Participant at Hmong Cultural Center of Butte County’s Zoosiab program
People sit at a booth at a community event

People Power in Action

People exercising

Access to universal care through Medi-Cal

All Californians should access necessary health care regardless of their immigration status or where they were born.

Person ties bracelet around another person, people watch close by

Aging with dignity

The Older Americans Act, which provides important services for older adults, should be well-funded and improved to meet the needs of diverse elders, including SEAA elders.

People hold up signs in support of ACA

Universal health care through the Affordable Care Act

Since its passage in 2010, the ACA has greatly increased access to affordable health care for SEAAs and reduced the number of SEAAs withouth health insurance. We must keep building on these successes.

This Lao, Khmer, and Thai New Year, Southeast Asian American families across the country will light candles, make offerings, and gather together. But for some families, there is an empty seat because unjust detention and deportation have taken a loved one. Deportations of Cambodians rose 184% from 2024–2025 and deportations of communities from Laos went from zero in 2024 to 300+ in 2025. We must demand real protection for our communities: Urge your Representative to cosponsor the Southeast Asian Deportation Relief Act (SEADRA) today. Take action at the link in our bio. #SEADRA

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រីករាយឆ្នាំថ្មី🌸 ສະບາຍດີປີໃຫມ່ 🌸 Happy Lao and Khmer New Year from SEARAC🌸

Our offices are closed today in observance of Lao and Khmer New Year. To our communities celebrating — we are sending you wishes for a peaceful, happy, and abundant year ahead.

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From #immigrant caregivers navigating enforcement fears, to #LGBTQ+ caregivers seeking recognition for chosen family, belonging in #caregiving is deeply shaped by policy. SEARAC is proud to join the Diverse Elders Coalition, @nhcoa , and @sageusa to bring that conversation to @asaging On Aging 2026 through story, data, and practical tools for change.  Join us April 20 at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta in Room Courtland.  #OnAging2026

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