Washington, D.C. Metro · Est. 1997
Bold. Bright. Belonging.
Identities in Full Color.
AQUA DC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit building queer and trans AAPI political power in Washington, D.C. — through community organizing, cultural programming, and legislative advocacy.
What We Do
Built at the Intersection
At the crossroads of LGBTQ+ justice and AAPI advocacy — since 1997.
Est. 1997 · Washington, D.C.
A Political Home for Queer & Trans AAPI People
Founded in 1997, AQUA DC — Asian & Pacific Islander Queers United for Action — emerged from a simple recognition: queer and trans AAPI people in D.C. needed a political home that centered their full identities.
- Volunteer-powered, member-led organization.
- No membership fees. No barriers to participation.
- Operating at the intersection of LGBTQ+ and AAPI justice.
Programs
What We Run
Year-round programs building community, celebrating culture, and developing leaders.
QAPI Support Group
Monthly peer support for queer and trans AAPI community members navigating identity, family, and mental health.
QTAAPI Book Club
A space to explore queer and AAPI literature, politics, and storytelling — open to all community members.
Legislative Advocacy
Tracking anti-trans and AAPI legislation at the federal level and mobilizing community members to act.
Social & Wellness
Regular social events, wellness programming, and community dinners for the DMV queer AAPI community.
Get Involved with AQUA DC
No membership fees. No barriers. Just community. All are welcome.
Get Involved
Recent Advocacy Highlights
API Pride March 2025
AQUA DC led the API Pride contingent at D.C. Pride — over 400 marchers celebrated queer AAPI identity in the streets of Washington.
Lobby Day on the Hill
Forty AQUA DC members met with congressional offices to oppose anti-trans legislation targeting gender-affirming care.
QTAAPI Book Club
Monthly reading circle centering queer and trans AAPI authors — building political consciousness through literature and shared storytelling.
QAPI Support Group
Confidential peer support for queer and trans AAPI individuals navigating identity, family dynamics, and mental health in the D.C. area.
Voices from Our Community
Hear from the people who make AQUA DC home.