Universal health care through the Affordable Care Act

People hold up signs in support of ACA

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.

Key resources:

People hold signs in support of ACA

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person writes on paper

“I began taking oral contraceptives in 2002. I spent roughly $1,440 on oral contraception, at least $160 on well-woman visit co-pays, and the cost of the HPV vaccinne (which was strongly recommended) from the age of 14. My mother, sister, and I have been able to access well-woman visits free of charge since ACA, which also covered birth control for myself and my sister.”

Southeast Asian Americans Speak Out to Protect the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid Expansion report
person writes I'm not alone, on paper

“I am a survivor of Cambodian genocide. I have mental problems, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, and stomach problems. My overall health is not great because of these health problems, but I am thankful to have health coverage. If not, I wouldn’t be alive now.

Southeast Asian Americans Speak Out to Protect the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid Expansion report
Four people strike silly poses

People Power in Action

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 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 holds sign saying My Mental Health Matters

Support for culturally competent mental health care

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

Fifty years ago, over a million Southeast Asian refugees from Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam arrived to the United States to seek safety from war, genocide, and violence. This led to the largest resettlement of refugees in American history. 

This year is the Southeast Asian American community’s power year, and we are celebrating the introduction of our national resolution recognizing 2025 as the 50th anniversary of the resettlement of Southeast Asian refugees. Join SEARAC and community partners for a community celebration on Dec. 16 from 1-2 pm ET/10-11 am PT and RSVP at bit.ly/seaa50celebration. 

Take part in honoring the Southeast Asian American legacy of survival, strength, and courage.

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TODAY IS THE DAY! Join SEARAC, CAAM, and community partners from across the country for our special virtual screening of our docuseries, Southeast Asian American Journeys. We will be sharing our five part docuseries, including our episode "Between Us" which follows LGBTQIA+ Khmer and Vietnamese cultural workers in southern California as they contemplate the in-betweenness of belonging, healing, and carving out spaces of their own. 

How to attend the virtual screening: 
Visit SEARAC's Facebook or Youtube channels (@SEARAC) at 4 pm ET/1pm PT. The full five part docuseries will be livestreamed and includes a Q&A and panel discussion!

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