Join Pride March in Chinatown: Learning about APIDA LGBTQ+ Organization Invisible to Invincible (i2i), a special conversation on the history, visibility, and future of queer Asian American community organizing in Chicago. This program brings together current Core member Liz Haas (they/she) and former Core member Nebula Li (he/him or they/them) to share the story of Invisible to Invincible (i2i), a grassroots APIDA LGBTQ+ organization dedicated to advocacy, visibility, cultural presence, and community care.

The discussion will trace the founding of i2i and reflect on the social and cultural conditions that made the organization necessary. Speakers will share memories and experiences from organizing and marching in Chicago’s Chinatown and Argyle Lunar New Year parades, moments that created visible queer APIDA presence within community and cultural spaces. The conversation will also look toward the present and future of i2i, discussing ongoing challenges, evolving community needs, and visions for future organizing, collaboration, and support networks. This event offers an opportunity to learn more about the intersections of Asian American identity, LGBTQ+ advocacy, public celebration, and community-building in Chicago.

Invisible to Invincible (i2i) is a community-based organization that celebrates and affirms Asian, Pacific Islander, & Desi Americans (APIDA) who identify as LGBTQ+ in the Chicago area. i2i’s work since 2005 has included working toward making Asian spaces more affirming of LGBTQ+ folks, immigrant and refugee justice, reproductive justice, racial justice solidarity work, family acceptance of LGBTQ+ Asians, visibility, and wellness. Currently, i2i organizes progressive educational programming, support spaces, and social events, both virtual and in person. We focus on community activism, primarily around queer, trans, racial, and immigrant justice.