As we gather for the 2024 Convention, we are embraced by the theme 'Homecoming: Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinangalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan,' a Filipino proverb that gently reminds us of the importance of honoring our roots as a guide to our future. This theme prompts us to reflect deeply on our journey, acknowledging and celebrating our origins not as anchors that hold us to past grievances, but as beacons that illuminate our path forward. It underscores the significance of understanding where we have come from, recognizing how our collective history shapes our quest for knowledge, identity, and advancement as a community.
The concept of 'Homecoming' is deeply woven into the ethos of our diverse and vibrant Asian, Pacific Islander, Native Hawaiian, and Desi (APINHD) communities. It serves as a reminder that the tapestry of our histories, with all its dreams, struggles, and triumphs, is not a ledger of old scores to settle but a rich foundation upon which we stand together today. Our ancestors navigated through vast waves of challenges—ranging from exclusion and discrimination to the battles for civil rights and recognition. Their resilience and hope are not just legacies of their victories but are also guideposts for us to forge a future that honors their sacrifices by fostering unity and understanding within our diverse community.
The last few years have tested our communities in unprecedented ways. The rise in anti-Asian hate crimes, which unfortunately did not receive sustained mainstream attention despite our efforts, along with the challenges of a global pandemic and the ongoing fight for social justice across all societal spectra, have underscored the urgency of our work. Yet, during these challenges, we have also seen remarkable acts of courage, unity, and advocacy. Our communities have rallied to support each other, to inform, to heal, and to stand firm against hate, indifference, and injustice. This resilience, perseverance, and solidarity are the very essence of our "Homecoming" theme.
This year, as we convene in the great city of Atlanta, we do so in the spirit of homecoming: a return to the essence of who we are and the legacy of those who came before us. We are reminded that every step we take forward is a step taken on the shoulders of giants. Our convention is a celebration of this legacy, a recommitment to the values of kindness, diligence, peace, justice, and solidarity that guide our work in psychology and beyond.
As we look ahead, the convention will focus on the themes of healing, empowerment, action, peace, and love. We will return to meeting face to face, and in a place whose community wants to reclaim a narrative outside of spa shootings. We will explore innovative approaches to mental health and well-being, delve into research that advances our understanding of the APINHD experience, celebrate the cultural wealth that defines us, and foster an environment of peace and love that supports our collective well-being. This event will provide spaces for reflection, learning, and connection, building bridges among all of us.
"Homecoming" is an affirmation that our past informs our present and lights the way to our individual and collective future. It is a commitment to carry forward the legacy of our predecessors, to honor their selfless sacrifices by continuing the work of building a more rational, just, and compassionate world.
We invite you to join us on this journey to celebrate our collective heritage and envision a future that is peaceful, compassionate, and productive, guided by the invaluable lessons from our past. Together, let us embark on this path collaboratively, strengthened by the wisdom of our ancestors and uplifted by the promise of new horizons ahead.
