Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month - Macy Johnson
What is your name?
Macy Johnson
Who is your employer?
CBRE
What is your current profession or role in commercial real estate?
Tenant Rep, Office | Commercial Real Estate Brokerage
What is your involvement in CREW Orlando?
I am a part of both Future Leaders and the Programs Committee. I have also been really active with engaging fellow CREW Orlando members for 1-on-1’s over coffee—we have a diverse and talented network, and everyone has been approachable and insightful. There are so many opportunities within the CREW membership to have the kinds of conversations that are energizing and helpful.
What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you?
My mother is from a small village in Laos and emigrated to the States during her school years. She has always emphasized the importance of education, hard work, and dreaming big. I take great pride in seeing the accomplishments of others in the AAPI community. This month brings to light that we have a hard-working and supportive group of individuals working right alongside us, all with their own journeys. As we all fight so hard to realize our dreams and to make those that came before us proud, AAPI Heritage Month reminds me to slow down a moment and to look at how far we have all come.
What is your favorite cultural tradition?
Our culture is big on supporting others, involving others, and celebrating together as a community. Any birthday, wedding, housewarming, graduation, or even funeral warrants the entire community getting together under one roof. There are endless trays of Laotian foods like larb, khao niew, tum muh muang—and every auntie is there to sneak additional food onto your plate when they think that you are not looking. There is welcome, affection, and a desire to share all that we have, whether that be our time, food, resources, with any and all persons under our roof. I am not sure how to put it into words, but it almost feels as if you are growing up under the sun. The cultural tradition to come together, both in times of happiness and in times of sadness give a sense of warmth. I always feel protected, knowing that our whole community will band together to help each other grow.
In your opinion, how have the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders influenced the nation and the world?
Something that I have noticed about the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders that I know and look up to is that they always, always give back to the community. The hard work, perseverance, and grace that they demonstrate in both their work ethics and their philanthropic efforts help cultivate and nurture the future generations. The preservation of cultural traditions as more Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders branch out and expand globally from our previous generations’ heritage set the stage for future generations to embrace and integrate with the world around them. For instance, CREW Orlando had the privilege of having Connie Chung as a speaker for a Women at the Top luncheon. She demonstrates fearlessness as she describes her roots and the journey she takes to recognize her professional and personal goals. Amidst her great achievements and widespread influence, she takes the time to talk to and inspire others around her with her hard work and genuine compassion.
What do you hope to see for the Asian/ Pacific Islander community in the future?
Mae (Laotian word for mother), Maetu (translates to grandmother), my actual aunts, and my other aunts (in Lao community, just about everyone is considered your aunt or uncle! We all have such huge “bonus” families)—they are always deeply moved when one of us kids gets a new degree, makes a next step in our careers, or achieves recognition. My hope is to see these numbers grow. How neat it would be to see more and more Laotian company leaders, speakers, professors, and CRE professionals! The things we achieve now can help inspire our future generations. The additional reach that we achieve now can allow more people a glimpse into our culture, traditions, and the beautiful yet difficult place that we originate from.