Following a spike in anti-Asian American racism in the US during COVID-19, the country’s chief financial planning authority is asking its members to join them in fostering greater inclusion for the community both within the sector and beyond.
The Financial Planning Association (FPA), the membership community for certified financial planning professionals, educators, and students, has affirmed its support for Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islanders in the sector and said it condemned the “recent acts of violence against Asian Americans and the pervasive discrimination and stereotyping that has harmed Asian American lives.”
The organisation has launched the ‘FPA Asian American/Pacific Islander Knowledge Circle‘, which will “provide a safe environment for members to come together to share, learn and grow from their collective experiences” and is led by FPA members John Eing, Relationship Manager at California-based Abacus Wealth Partners and Michelle Wong, Founder of Washington D.C based financial planning firm, Nifty Advisor Support.
FPA leaders and members will be able to discuss how the organisation “can meet AAPI planners’ needs and grow the community.” They will also consider “additional educational initiatives and thought leadership content that can benefit AAPI members and those who serve this community over the coming months.”
In a recent statement about the initiative, an FPA spokesperson said: “Our Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community is a vital source of leadership and strength for FPA and the financial planning profession. Our future depends on ensuring that they, and people of all backgrounds, can flourish fully. We will continue to support and work with our AAPI members, volunteers, and leaders to build a better world.”
The Knowledge Circle is one of what is expected to be a series of D&I efforts from the FPA Diversity and Inclusion Committee, which “is working with the FPA Board of Directors to spearhead a multi-year plan that includes D&I education opportunities and resources for FPA members and leaders” and will include “opportunities for building community, scholarships that lead to growth in planning, and collaboration with like-minded organisations.”
FPA CEO Patrick Mahoney said: “Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to elevating the financial planning profession. As the leading membership organisation for financial planners, it is our responsibility to champion efforts that promote greater opportunities for inclusivity within the profession. With the launch of the FPA Asian American/Pacific Islander Knowledge Circle, we are continuing our efforts to help diverse members find the sense of community they desire.”
While the Knowledge Circle is member-only, participation is open to all FPA members regardless of identity. The first open discussion takes place on Thursday, April 29 at 3:00 p.m. ET/12:00 p.m. PT. Click here to attend.
