Oct. 17, 2025, WAEYC Conference, 10:00am-12 noon, No Single Story: Amplifying the Voices of Asian American &Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Early Educators to Create Inclusive, and Equitable Communities of Care for All Children and Families.
Presenters: Debbie LeeKeenan, Kamalei Brandon, Clare Juico, and Caryn Park
Description: How do our identities impact who we are? Moderator Debbie LeeKeenan and a panel of Asian American and Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander (AA&NHPI) early educators from the Seattle area will share stories about how their intersecting identities and lived experiences have impacted and influenced their roles in early education. The session will explore the complexity of being AA&NHPI, a diverse group of over 50 ethnic groups and over 100 languages with different cultures, religions and histories. We will provide practical strategies to empower and support all children, families and educators, break down barriers of discrimination and create culturally responsible environments. There will be time to develop some action plans for your own settings.
November 19-22, 2025, NAEYC Annual Conference, Orlando Florida. Registration Opens July 1.
Two sessions:
No Single Story: Amplifying the Voices of Asian American &Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Early Educators to Create Inclusive and Equitable Communities of Care for All Children and Families.
Presenters: Debbie LeeKeenan, Nicol Russell, Soh Meacham, Sim Loh, Ku’ulei Serna, Jerry Yang
Anti-Bias Activism with and by Young Children is about Agency, not Performance! Uncovering the Meaningful Possibilities in Your Community for Social Justice Change.
Presenters: John Nimmo, Debbie LeeKeenan, Rukia Rogers, Nadia Jaboneta