Mee Moua, executive director and president for Asian Americans Advancing Justice, was
Mee Moua, executive director and president for Asian Americans Advancing Justice, was chosen as one of Washingtonian Magazine’s “Most Powerful Women”, under Advocacy and Nonprofits. The list, compiled by Washingtonian’s editors, recognizes the most influential women in the government, public and private sectors.
“Mee’s dynamic leadership has been transformative for the Asian American community,” said Paul Lee, chair of the Asian Americans Advancing Justice Board of Directors. “Like the many impressive women on this list, Mee has blazed a trail for future women leaders, and it is clear that she will leave a lasting impact on all those who have had the opportunity to work alongside her and experience the power of her voice speaking on behalf of those whose voices would otherwise not be heard.”
At Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Moua leads efforts to fight for civil and human rights and to ensure that Asian Americans have a meaningful role in shaping nationwide debates, policies and practices of importance to our community.
Since assuming her role at AAJC in March 2012, Moua has ensured that Asian Americans continue to have a seat at the table in Washington, particularly in the current debate around immigration reform. This past spring, Moua showed strength and courage on behalf of the Asian American community as she testified in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee against proposals that would make it harder for immigrant families to reunite with their loved ones. Moua reminded Congress that ours has always been a nation of immigrants: “Whether it was through the Mayflower, Ellis Island, Angel Island or now all our ports of entry, most immigrants came to the U.S. with nothing but hope and their families. […] For those who are working hard for our prosperous economy, let our policies also work for them.”
In August, Moua was invited to deliver remarks on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial as part of “Let Freedom Ring,” a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s March on Washington. Alongside fellow civil rights leaders, advocates and United States Presidents, Moua spoke on Dr. King’s vision of an inclusive America and the historic role Asian Americans have played in the civil rights movement.
When senator Jeff Sessions began asking some overtly anti-immigration questions, Mee Moua wasted no time in knocking them out of the park.