What We Bring to the Table: An Asian Men's Circle on Family & the Holidays
Asian men are experiencing a mental health epidemic.
In 2015-2019, Asian men were the least likely to use mental health services compared to any other race and gender combination (SAMHSA, 2021).
In order to combat this, Proud Asian Men was created.
Proud Asian Men is a support group and men's mental health collective hosted under Asian Mental Health Project in collaboration with JinShan Collective whose mission is to create a safe and brave space for Asian men to explore the intersection of their culture and masculinity in a supportive environment.
Our discussion will center our feelings as Asian men as we enter the holiday season. What are we holding? Burdens? Expectations? Obligations? Reflections on family and relationships we have been withholding and not recognizing? This is our space to reflect and heal in community before the holidays.
Programming is as follows:
1-2 PM: Introductions, Community Guidelines, Opening Meditation and Ice Breakers
2-3:30 PM: Group Discussion and Partner Shares
3:30-4 PM: Acknowledgments and Closing
What you should bring:
- an open heart and mind
- journal and pen
- plenty of water
Scholarships: if you are in need of financial assistance to attend this event please email me at lowhiofficial@gmail.com. We may have some sliding scale options as well as potentially fully sponsored tickets available.
Parking: there is a street parking in the area.
This event is reserved for folks who identify as Asian men - spots limited to 15 attendees. If we have reached capacity, please sign up for the waitlist in case someone drops out at the last minute. This will allow us to gauge interest in future events as well.
DISCLAIMER This event is not providing professional therapy services. Please seek professional medical and mental health services for treatment needs and advice.
About your facilitators:
Noel Garcia (he/him) is a professional artist, educator, and visionary in the world of Taiko - Japanese drums, dedicated to using rhythm and movement as a medium for self-discovery, creative expression and healing.
With over 25 years of experience - both in the U.S. and Japan - Noel brings a deep, holistic approach to his work. As an instructor, artistic director, and composer, he founded his own taiko team (Genbu Daiko) in 2015 in San Diego, California, focusing his craft on emotional storytelling and the power of vulnerability. He cultivates safe and inclusive spaces where the taiko becomes a portal to mental wellness, personal transformation, and connection to community. Through his guidance, participants are encouraged to honor Self, embrace their creativity, find harmony with others in togetherness and discover their own unique rhythm - both in taiko and in other facets of life itself.