28 Years of Community
AQUA DC Through the Decades
AQUA DC was founded in 1997 by a group of queer and trans Asian and Pacific Islander activists in Washington, D.C. Over nearly three decades, we have grown from a small social group into a leading advocacy and community organization.
Explore Our Full History Timeline1997: AQUA DC is founded by queer AAPI activists in D.C. The organization begins as a social and support network, hosting the first community gatherings for queer and trans Asian Americans in the region.
AQUA DC expands its programming and begins advocacy work, joining the coalition for D.C. marriage equality and launching the first API Pride march with Capital Pride.
AQUA DC launches annual Lobby Day, establishes the QAPI Support Group, and grows to 1,000+ members. The organization becomes a leading voice for queer AAPI policy in D.C.
Through the pandemic, AQUA DC pivots to virtual programming and expands its digital reach. In 2025, with 3,600+ members, AQUA DC responds to a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ federal actions with intensified advocacy.