
Pacific Asian American Human Rights Award
Awarded to a member whose activities have helped to achieve significant progress on behalf of equal opportunity for Pacific Asian Americans.
Wei-Tsu Loh
SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST
president of Associated Pomona Teachers, CTA Asian and Pacific Islander Caucus member
As president of Associated Pomona Teachers (APT) for three years, Wei-Tsu Loh inspires others and empowers them to do the work necessary to make change. Loh has prioritized political activism, equity and a working relationship with the district board. During her tenure, APT successfully negotiated a 20% increase in educator pay. Among her other accomplishments:
• Bilingual programs: Loh revitalized an APT committee for educators involved in the district’s Dual Language Immersion Program (now at four schools and growing) and worked with the district to ensure that the educators are supported and able to provide the education students deserve.
• Educational equity: Loh created a program where members of the APT executive board are connected with a board member from their trustee area. The pairs meet to discuss issues of importance for all Pomona students, allowing educators to have access to decision-makers. For example, Pomona has a growing Asian community, and this program helps address their needs.
• Involvement in the community: Loh attends multiple community events, including those for nearby CTA locals, on behalf of students and CTA. She is collaborating with the district, parents and educators to create a community schools steering committee and get relevant training for the team. She is also working with the district to make sure a community schools grant is used to better Pomona schools and provide students alternatives to gangs.
• Political activism: Loh lobbies at the State Capitol, representing CTA and advocating for students, educators and communities – particularly in the BIPOC communities. She is a leader in the Inland Communities Organizing Network tackling housing shortage issues in Pomona.
• Representational equity: Loh faced backlash for the ethnic diversity of APT’s executive board., but she is dedicated to ensuring that all voices are heard. She has encouraged the district to expand its Ethnic Studies program and is actively involved in CTA ‘s Asian and Pacific Islander Caucus.
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