SEARAC is a national civil rights organization dedicated to creating a socially just and equitable society for communities from Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. As representatives of the largest refugee community in the US, SEARAC works alongside other refugee communities, communities of color, and social justice movements to advocate for social equity. Established in 1979 as the Indochina Refugee Action Center, SEARAC played a crucial role in pushing the US to develop a comprehensive refugee system.

Their advocacy efforts led to the passage of the Refugee Act of 1980 and the establishment of the Office of Refugee Resettlement. Throughout the 1980s, SEARAC continued to champion the human rights of refugees and nurtured community-led support networks. In 1991, SEARAC shifted its focus towards the long-term integration needs and civic engagement of Southeast Asian Americans.

They have since built the capacity of numerous Southeast Asian American community-based organizations and trained over 1,000 leaders who have mobilized for progressive policies. Today, SEARAC advocates at the highest levels of government to fight for justice and equity for Southeast Asian American communities. They invest in building individual advocates and community-based organizations to uplift their strengths and drive policy change.

For more information about SEARAC’s programs, successes, and vision, check out their annual reports and strategic plan on their website