Dear APALA members,
This is a very bittersweet message to write. My final presidential term is ending, and what a ride it’s been. You all have been with me for two whole years and I couldn’t be more proud of the work we’ve accomplished together. This experience has taught me much about people power and the importance of community.
Looking back on the last two years, we’ve definitely grown as an organization. With growth comes discomfort and uncertainty, so I thank you for your kind words and support through it all. I have certainly not been perfect, and I appreciate the grace APALA has shown me as I navigated this hefty role.
Together we’ve made significant and long-overdue changes to the Literature Awards, bringing us more in line with our values. We’ve taken a stand on issues where others have remained silent. And I like to think we’ve supported each other with candidness and empathy.
I know APALA will continue to do good, meaningful work under the incoming Executive Board.
At ALA Annual 2025 in Philadelphia a few weeks ago, APALA celebrated our 45th anniversary. We had a slate of events that weekend, culminating in our much anticipated Literature Awards Banquet. I was pleased to see many of you at these events.
As I wrote back in February, we need all of the fighting spirit and support we can muster, together. We’re navigating uncertain territory, and many of the institutions and values we believe in are under attack. As information professionals, we are uniquely qualified to help our communities with resource access and literacy. In the end, we are all human beings deserving of respect and acceptance.
Stay safe, stay strong, stay caring.
While this is a goodbye of sorts, it is also a promise. I will continue to champion the work we do as an organization. I will continue to share my skills and knowledge in service to our AANHPI communities. And I will continue to uplift anyone who needs a helping hand.
Thank you, APALA. I could never repay all that you have given me as a professional and member of the global majority.
Jaena Rae Cabrera (she/her/siya)
APALA President 2023-2025