API Chaya is a 501(c)(3) organization that seeks to end systemic violence in our communities.

We envision a community free from violence. The mission of the API Chaya is to organize communities; to educate, train, and offer technical assistance; and to provide comprehensive culturally relevant services on domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking to Asian, South Asian, and Pacific Islander community members, service providers, survivors, and their families. We are one of the few organizations in the country that serves Asian, South Asian, and Pacific Islander community members, survivors, and their families. We also assist mainstream service providers who serve API refugees and immigrants.

We have served thousands of people and worked with dozens of community groups for community organizing and education regarding prevention of sexual and domestic violence, exploitation, and human trafficking. We understand the cultural norms and stigmas associated with such violence and believe in the inherent strength and potential of each person to address situations in which there has been systematic emotional and physical violence. Our services are free, confidential, and available to any person in need.

API Chaya formed from the merger of two organizations in 2011: the Asian & Pacific Islander Women & Family Safety Center and Chaya. The Safety Center grew out of organizing within the Filipino community in 1993 sponsored by the Washington State Commission on Asian American Affairs out of concern for the prevalence of violence against women in their community, including several murders of Asian Pacific women. The Safety Center hired staff in 1997 to work with community groups to organize for justice and social change. Chaya was established in 1996 to serve South Asian women in times of crisis and need and to raise awareness of domestic violence issues.