2026 Asian American Heroes | Asian Avenue Magazine

Twenty Years of Stories, Community and Connection

By Annie Guo VanDan • June 1, 2026

In 2006, before Instagram, before TikTok, and before “AANHPI” became part of mainstream conversations, there was a simple but powerful idea: Colorado’s Asian American community deserved to be seen. That idea became Asian Avenue Magazine . What started as a grassroots publication has grown over the past twenty years into a platform that has celebrated culture, amplified voices, supported local businesses, and documented the stories of Colorado’s Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. At the time, there were few spaces where Asian Americans in Colorado could consistently see themselves reflected in local media. Community events often spread through word of mouth. Cultural organizations worked in their silos. Businesses had limited ways to reach Asian audiences. And many second- and third- generation Asian Americans were still searching for a stronger sense of identity and belonging. Asian Avenue became a connector. Issue after issue, the magazine highlighted community leaders, artists, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, students, restaurants, festivals, and families. It celebrated milestones and traditions while also addressing difficult conversations around identity, mental health, representation, immigration, and belonging. As we celebrate 20 years of the magazine next month (July 2026), we have seen how the publication has evolved alongside the community itself. What began primarily as a print magazine expanded into community events, partnerships and connections across Colorado. The growth reflected a larger transformation happening nationwide: AANHPIs becoming more visible, more vocal, and more engaged in civic and cultural life. This looked like young women becoming lifelong friends through the Miss Asian American Colorado Leadership Program, organizing high school student conferences with Next Generation Voices, bringing people together to try new restaurants with the Joy of Living Club, and many, many Lunar New Year dinner celebrations over the years! For many readers, Asian Avenue was more than a magazine. It was where they discovered local events, found businesses, celebrated achievements that mainstream media often overlooked, and felt connected to something larger than themselves. It was the first publication they grabbed when landing at the DEN airport. The past twenty years have not been without challenges. Print media has faced enormous changes with increases in paper and gas, and less advertisers as businesses move towards digital. During the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise in anti-Asian hate incidents, the importance of trusted community storytelling became even more clear. Through it all, Asian Avenue continued to show up — not just as a publication, but as a community platform. Thank you to the readers who picked up the very first issues in 2006. To the advertisers who supported us. To the writers, photographers, interns, volunteers, and community partners who contributed their voices and talents. And to the countless individuals and organizations whose stories filled these pages over the years.

Group of people posing in a stylish restaurant with chandeliers, smiling and dressed in formal and colorful attire

Voices for Colorado: Meet Colorado’s Asian American Candidates

By Asian American Staff • June 1, 2026

DR. ALEXANDER AFRICA is a veteran, community leader, and nonprofit executive dedicated to serving and strengthening communities across Colorado. With a Doctorate in Management and extensive experience in leadership and organizational development, he has spent much of his career advocating for community engagement, education, and opportunities that support families and future generations. Dr. Africa has been actively involved in nonprofit leadership and community initiatives at the local and national levels, building partnerships, supporting cultural programs, and empowering individuals through service and mentorship. His work reflects a commitment to collaboration, integrity, and leadership that brings people together to address community needs. As a resident of Southern Colorado, Dr. Africa believes in the importance of civic engagement, responsible leadership, and creating opportunities that allow communities to grow and thrive. His mission is to continue serving with purpose and to help build a stronger future for the communities he proudly represents. Alexander Africa is running for election to the CO House of Representatives to represent District 21 in El Paso County. He is on the ballot in the Republican primary on June 30, 2026. alexanderafrica.com

Honoring Tradition, Welcoming All: The 52nd Annual Denver Cherry Blossom Festival is Almost Here!

By Asian Avenue Staff • June 1, 2026

Not every city has a Sakura Matsuri but Denver does, and it keeps getting better! The Denver Cherry Blossom Festival returns for another spectacular weekend of Japanese culture, food, and community at Sakura Square, 1255 19th Street, on June 27 and 28. As always, it’s FREE and open to everyone. Saturday morning kicks off on the live stage with pulse-quickening taiko drumming, followed by a full stage of minyo folk dancers, koto players, enka singers, and martial artists. Temple children and youth perform throughout the weekend, and this year brings an exciting new addition: Ryu Japan, a Japanese singer-songwriter whose original music bridges cultures and moves hearts. The Marketplace features over 40 vendors offering traditional textiles, handcrafted art, contemporary Japanese fashion, anime, and pop culture finds. There’s something around every corner to spark your curiosity and send you home with a smile. Come hungry! Cool down with an ice-cold Asahi or crisp sake, then dig into a teriyaki burger, SPAM musubi, chicken bento box, and more. Food is available inside the Temple and at the outdoor marketplace booth, with dining areas under the Temple (enter from 20th Street), in the 19th Street plaza, and near the live stage. Families won’t want to miss a celebration of the book Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp by Minoru Tonai, Jolene Gutiérrez, and Chris Sasaki. Author Jolene Gutiérrez will be on hand to read and discuss this moving children’s book about resilience, identity, and inner strength. Check the festival website soon for day and time. For parking, transit, performance schedule, and vendor info, visit cherryblossomdenver.org . Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, Sakura Matsuri is a summer tradition worth making your own.

Six people seated on a bench in front of white columns and trees, outdoors in daylight.

2026 Asian American Heroes of Colorado

By Patricia Kaowthumrong • May 1, 2026

Highlighting the Asian American Heroes impact on Colorado's AAPI community. Read about their leadership & advocacy efforts today!

Conference talk in a bright room, with audience seated facing a large presentation screen.

Colorado Lotus Project relaunches under Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network to expand and strengthen community data

By Asian Avenue Staff • May 1, 2026

Learn how the Colorado Lotus Project enhances data research for AANHPI communities. Join us in advocating for better resources and support.

Storefront sign for KOKORO Japanese food with patio tables, umbrellas, and bright window posters

Birthday bowl: Kokoro celebrates 40 Years of serving up fast-casual Japanese

By Gil Asakawa • May 1, 2026

Celebrate Kokoro's 40 years of authentic Japanese cuisine in Denver. Enjoy new menu items at this family-run restaurant!

Twenty Years of Stories, Community and Connection

Voices for Colorado: Meet Colorado’s Asian American Candidates

Honoring Tradition, Welcoming All: The 52nd Annual Denver Cherry Blossom Festival is Almost Here!

May 2026 Issue

2026 Asian American Heroes of Colorado

Featured Articles

2026 Asian American Heroes of Colorado

Colorado Lotus Project relaunches under Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network to expand and strengthen community data

Birthday bowl: Kokoro celebrates 40 Years of serving up fast-casual Japanese

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