The mission of the OCAA is to work for the implementation and establishment of economic, social, legal, and political equality for Asian American & Pacific Islanders in Oregon.

The Commission on Asian Affairs was established in 1995 by SB 342. Originally, the Commission had a trade and economic development focus. Then later in 1999, the Oregon Legislature amended the commission's primary function with SB 951, and placed a greater emphasis on advocacy.

The core function of the Commission on Asian Affairs is to facilitate communication and dissemination of information between state government and a particular segment of Oregon's minority community. This function not only benefits the Asian Americans in our communities, it also provides the state with information on how best to provide services to all its citizens.