February 2026 Director's Corner: Persistence and Invisible Growth

It’s February, and it’s been very cold where I am living. There is snow covering just about everything, and the trees are bare with only ice hanging from the branches. My spiritual practice follows the seasons, and winter is often seen as a time of dormancy. While the first few months of winter may mark a rest period for nature, by the time February comes upon us, this has already changed. Underneath the snow and ice, deep in the ground, there are stirrings of new growth; Yet, from the surface, that growth is invisible.

I think that this invisible growth and renewal are happening, not only in nature but in our country too. This invisible growth – shifting of ideas, understanding the concept of justice, fighting for democratic ideals, resisting fascism – is happening among many people, and this invisible shift is important. These shifts are fueled by the outward protests and litigation that challenge the current illegal words and actions of those in power.  Not everyone can be on the frontline, but everyone can do something to promote the values of freedom and democracy.

Eventually, in nature, the invisible growth begins to shoot up and we see the crocuses peeking up through the snow, heralding that spring has arrived. However, that journey of pushing through the partially frozen soil, pushing up from the cold, dank earth to the warmth of sunlight, is not easy – the soil might be rocky, or a cold snap could refreeze the ground. Some of the crocuses might not make it to see the light. Some seeds might not sprout at all. Some early shoots might be eaten by wildlife or stomped on by unwitting children playing in the remnants of winter.

However, the crocuses persist, and many make it to the surface despite the obstacles they face. And in the spring months, we see more activity, more energy, and more light. Yet like the crocuses, we need to persist. We will have setbacks and disappointments in this change process. Yet my hope is that people who are making change in the shadows now will have an opportunity to come into the light and that the movements started now will take root and make changes toward democracy, equity, and justice.

-Dr. Pata Suyemoto

On February 13, NAAPIMHA turned twenty-five years old. Through the lens of human development, I can't help but see NAAPIMHA as the teenager I met over ten years ago that is now navigating adulthood, supported by a dedicated staff, leadership team, and Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities nationwide.

NAAPIMHA has reckoned with the ever-changing sociopolitical landscape and taken on leadership roles to cultivate change and ensure the mental health needs of our communities are nurtured and advocated for from the grassroots to the grasstops. Much like its Gen-Z peers, NAAPIMHA knows deeply that our ecosystem is changing, change is required within each of us to meet the moment and grow, and that we can only grow together at the speed of trust. 

So, as one of its biggest supporters, I cheer on this organization for continuing to do the heart work, connecting people to one another, resources, training, and spaces to support our mental health, well-being, and healing. Happy birthday NAAPIMHA, my dear friend. May we continue to be rooted in our collective strength, power, and perseverance. 

-Krystle Canare

As we reflect on the topic of growth, we would be remiss not to mention that NAAPIMHA continues to be in its own state of transition. While growth often foretells beauty and opportunity, it can also create feelings of uncertainty. As NAAPIMHA is in a state of shifting underground, we want to preview that changes are on the horizon for us. These changes will see us shift our programs in a way that refocuses our intentions while staying true to our mission, remaining focused on promoting and redefining the mental health and well-being of AANHPI individuals and communities through training, programs, policy & advocacy, and centering lived experience. We are honored to have you join us as we grow into our future. 

Please stay tuned for more updates.