SEAMAAC

Founded more than 30 years ago by refugees, SEAMAAC's mission is to support and serve immigrants and refugees and other politically, socially and economically marginalized communities as they seek to advance the condition of their lives in the United States. 

SEAMAAC envisions a strong and unified society, where immigrants and refugees work alongside other Americans to build shared political, economic and social power. We envision a community where the contributions of each generation of Americans, whether native to this land, immigrant, or brought against their will, are equally acknowledged, valued and embraced, and where all people live whole, healthy lives with joy and dignity. 

POPULATIONS SERVED:
Bhutanese : Burmese : Cambodian : Chin : Chinese : Indonesian : Karen : Laotian :  Nepali : Pakistani : Vietnamese : Other : African American : Mexican : Puerto Rican : White

SEAMAAC has been serving a very diverse community in South Philly for over 30 years by building from the strengths of the community.  From our Roots of Happiness Elders Gatherings to building power through civic engagement, voting, and participation in the 2020 Census.  From our High School Hip Hop Heritage program to our work in Truancy Prevention.  From our work to improve long neglected Mifflin Square Park with a $5MM capital project to our work with refugee food growers at the Growing Home Gardens.  From our work standing up against racism and injustice across the board to our bridge building with other communities of color and other allies.  From our work to connect community members to resources to building a healthier community in all ways.  From our work to create economic opportunity to talented chef entrepreneurs on the SoPhiE Food Truck to helping local stores find creative new ways to grow their business.

Finally, most recently, SEAMAAC has pivoted quickly to address the major impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.  SEAMAAC has demonstrated that a small and mighty organization, led by Asian Americans, whose CEO is a refugee, can be a leader in the larger broader effort needed right now.  SEAMAAC is now distributing needed food and supplies to many hundreds in need in the community regardless of background.  Through this work, SEAMAAC combats the narrative that our vision and communities are insular.  And we show that we are a critical piece of the broader fabric of our society.  SEAMAAC, through action and its voice continues to push back against attacks led from even the highest levels of our government by building a stronger more unified and resilient community.