FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington, D.C., September 25th, 2024 – The Diverse Elders Coalition (DEC), representing millions of older adults from American Indian, Alaska Native, Asian American, Pacific Islander, Native Hawaiian, Black, African American, Hispanic, Latinx, and LGBT communities, is proud to announce Didier Trinh as its new National Director. Didier, who has served as DEC’s Director of Policy and Advocacy since 2022, brings a wealth of experience in policy leadership, coalition building, and advocacy across multiple sectors.
As National Director, Didier will oversee the coalition’s ongoing mission to improve the lives of older adults from historically marginalized communities. He will lead efforts to amplify their voices in national conversations about aging, equity, and policy reform. In his new role, Didier will work closely with DEC’s member organizations and external partners to advance comprehensive policies that ensure a just and equitable aging experience for all.
Didier’s two decades of experience in policy, advocacy, and coalition building make him an ideal fit for this position. At the DEC, he has already spearheaded significant policy initiatives, strengthened the coalition’s relationships with key federal agencies and congressional lawmakers, and elevated the visibility of diverse older adults in public policy discussions. His leadership has been pivotal in shaping DEC’s foundational policy priorities and organizing successful advocacy efforts, such as the coalition’s annual Hill Day meetings on Capitol Hill.
Before joining DEC, Didier held executive positions in the nonprofit sector, where he forcefully advocated for marginalized and underserved communities. His impressive track record of working with both Democratic and Republican policymakers to pass bipartisan legislation demonstrates his ability to navigate complex political landscapes and deliver results.
Didier Trinh: Meeting the Moment
As the Diverse Elders Coalition’s National Director, Didier will focus on expanding the coalition’s advocacy reach and deepening partnerships with stakeholders. He is committed to strengthening the coalition’s impact through strategic partnerships, innovative policies, and authentic community engagement. His leadership will help ensure that DEC continues to advance its vision of a society where all elders, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation, have access to equitable healthcare, financial security, and social support.
From DEC’s Member Organizations:
“On behalf of NAPCA, I want to express our excitement about Didier’s leadership as the new National Director of the DEC. His extensive qualifications, unmatched experience, and passion for advancing equity in aging make him an exceptional fit for this role. We are confident that under his direction, we will see tremendous progress in addressing the unique challenges faced by the diverse AANHPI communities. We look forward to collaborating closely with him and achieving meaningful outcomes for the people we serve.”
- Clayton S. Fong, NAPCA President and CEO
“On behalf of the National Caucus and Center on Black Aging, Inc. (NCBA), congratulations on your new role as the National Director for the Diverse Elders Coalition. The NCBA team and I look forward to working with you. We know your policy, advocacy, and coalition building expertise will play an integral role in the DEC’s continued success.”
- Karyne Jones, NCBA President and CEO
“Congratulations Didier! You are truly worthy of your new title and position. You have demonstrated nothing but leadership, intelligence, and professionalism while working in your former capacity. You have also shown that you are compassionate about what DEC stands for. Wishing you all the best in your new journey.”
- Billie Tohee, NICOA Executive Director
“I am delighted to welcome Didier Trinh as the new National Director of the Diverse Elders Coalition. His extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, combined with his deep understanding of advocacy and policy, makes him an exceptional leader. I am confident that his passion and leadership will elevate our collective work across all communities to new heights.”
- Yanira Cruz, NHCOA President and CEO
“I’m thrilled that Didier Trinh has been appointed as the new National Director for the Diverse Elders Coalition,” said Michael Adams, SAGE CEO. “Didier brings with him a world of knowledge in policy and advocacy, and over 20 years of years of experience with critical coalition building. I look forward to working with him as DEC and SAGE both strive for a world where everyone can age with dignity and support.”
- Michael Adams, SAGE CEO
“SEARAC extends heartfelt congratulations to Didier Trinh on his appointment as Executive Director of the Diverse Elders Coalition (DEC). SEARAC has proudly partnered with DEC to advocate for the unique needs of diverse elder adults and their caregivers, ensuring their voices are heard and their experiences honored. Didier’s appointment represents a continuation of this critical work in championing the rights and dignity of our elder communities. SEARAC looks forward to deepening our partnership with DEC as we continue to advance policies and programs that uplift the lives of Southeast Asian American elders and all elders of color.”
- Quyen Dinh, SEARAC Executive Director
About the Diverse Elders Coalition
Founded in 2010, the Diverse Elders Coalition advocates for policies and programs that improve aging outcomes for older adults from historically marginalized communities. Our coalition includes six national organizations: the National Indian Council on Aging, the National Caucus and Center on Black Aging, the National Hispanic Council on Aging, SAGE (Advocacy and Services for LGBTQ+ Elders), the Southeast Asia Resource Action Center, and the National Asian Pacific Center on Aging.
For media inquiries, please contact: Ocean Le
Email: ole@diverseelders.org