AASF Works Towards Advancing American Competitiveness & the Civil Rights of Asian Americans and All Communities

Washington, DC – March 16, 2026 – Yesterday, Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF) Executive Director Gisela Perez Kusakawa met with Congressman Ro Khanna, who was newly appointed as Ranking Member of the U.S. House Select Committee on China. During the meeting, Kusakawa congratulated Congressman Khanna on his new leadership role and shared AASF’s perspective and top priorities. AASF remains an important trusted resource for policymakers as we work together in our shared goals of advancing American competitiveness while protecting our democratic values and the civil rights of Asian Americans and all communities. “Protecting the United States’ scientific and technological strength depends on ensuring that people can contribute to research and innovation without fear of discrimination or unfair targeting. Our country needs nuanced policies that are rooted in data and facts, and recognize the important role a talented workforce plays in U.S. leadership and competition,” said Gisela Perez Kusakawa, Executive Director at the Asian American Scholar Forum. “I appreciate Congressman Khanna’s understanding of these complex issues, and look forward to his leadership. We will continue to work together with  policymakers to strengthen American competitiveness while upholding fairness and due process.”

Gisela Perez Kusakawa, Executive Director at the Asian American Scholar Forum, with Congressman Khanna at his office in Capitol Hill.

Representative Khanna represents California’s 17th Congressional District in Silicon Valley and is serving his fifth term in Congress. A leading voice on technology and manufacturing policy, he authored the Endless Frontier Act, which helped form the foundation of the CHIPS and Science Act. As Ranking Member of the Select Committee, he has emphasized the need to strengthen domestic industries, invest in science and technology, and ensure that the United States leads in AI and emerging technologies.AASF remains committed to engaging with policymakers on issues affecting the Asian American and broader research community. We will work with our leaders together towards strengthening the future of U.S. scientific and technological leadership.