CAPAC Members hosted a press conference to kick off Heritage month
WASHINGTON, D.C. — May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month, which recognizes the history, contributions, and achievements of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community. The month of May was chosen due to two important milestones in AANHPI history: May 7, 1843, when the first Japanese immigrants arrived in the United States, and May 10, 1869, when the first transcontinental railroad was completed with substantial contributions from Chinese immigrant workers. Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) began this month-long celebration with a press conference today at the U.S. Capitol.
To celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month, CAPAC Members and House Democratic leadership members also released the following statements:
CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28):
“Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a celebration of the vibrant cultures and immeasurable contributions of the AANHPI community. Representing over 23 million people with 70 different ethnicities and over 100 languages, AANHPIs are one of the most diverse groups in the nation, with trailblazers like Dalip Singh Saund, Patsy Mink, Daniel Akaka, and Norm Mineta paving the way for us all. And, we continue to shape this nation every day as the fastest growing racial or ethnic group.
“I am honored to lead our Caucus as Chair to help celebrate the histories and accomplishments of our communities not just in May, but all year-round. And, as we celebrate CAPAC’s 30th anniversary, we will continue to honor the profound legacies of the AANHPI leaders who paved the way for the robust AANHPI representation that we now see in the highest levels of our government. Leaders in the Administration like Vice President Kamala Harris, Katherine Tai, Julie Su, and Arati Prabhakar represent our communities at the top levels of government. And with a record-high of 21 AANHPI Members of Congress and 76 Members of CAPAC, our communities’ needs and concerns are being addressed throughout the halls of Congress as well.
“On health equity, language access, data disaggregation, immigration, education, and more, CAPAC has made landmark policy achievements, and we’re dedicated to addressing all the unique challenges facing our diverse communities. As we look towards the future of AANHPI contributions in healthcare, businesses, sports, public service, and more, this month also marks an opportunity to reflect on the significance of the AANHPI histories which have been foundational in building the fabric of our nation. That is why I am so proud to join CAPAC Executive Member Senator Mazie Hirono again in reintroducing a Congressional resolution to recognize May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, which honors the diverse AANHPI community’s countless achievements and important milestones that have made America what is it today. May this year’s AANHPI Heritage Month bring us together to honor, reflect, and celebrate our rich histories and inspire us to continue to advance our community’s priorities!”
House Democratic Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08):
“Happy AANHPI Heritage Month to the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities in Brooklyn and across the nation! This month we celebrate the incredible contributions the AANHPI community has made to our economy, history and culture. House Democrats will continue to stand with you this month, and every month.”
House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-05):
“As we celebrate the rich history, heritage, and diversity of our AANHPI communities, I’m grateful for CAPAC’s invaluable leadership in the fight for the safety, dignity, and opportunity that these Americans deserve. House Democrats stand united in our commitment to stopping Asian hate and ensuring the voices of AA and NHPIs are heard loud and clear in the halls of Congress. This month, and every month, I am proud to fight alongside CAPAC to build a country worthy of all our children.”
CAPAC First Vice-Chair Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06):
“Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a time to commemorate the immense contributions of AANHPIs to our American story. I am so proud to represent my district in Queens, New York, which is made up of an incredible mix of cultures and languages— my district reminds me every day of the beauty and strength in diversity. I am leading the effort in the United States Congress to create a national museum in our nation’s capital dedicated to the history and culture of AANHPIs, and I am advocating for federal recognition for holidays like Lunar New Year, Diwali, and Eid. These are ways that we can affirm that AANHPI history is American history. I look forward to celebrating with my constituents and AANHPIs across the United States this month, and I will continue working to uplift our communities year-round.”
CAPAC Second Vice-Chair Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39):
“I feel great pride to be Japanese American and to be the son of a family of immigrants who have contributed to our nation. In particular, today I am thinking of my great-uncle Mon. He gave his life in defense of this country during World War II — while his family was forced to endure the brutality of the internment camps. His is one of so many stories of struggle and sacrifice that AANHPI peoples know all too well. As Second-Vice Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I know that our power rests in our solidarity with one another, our respect of diversity, and our ability to persist and remain resilient even in the face of adversity.”
CAPAC Whip Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-36):
“Wishing a very happy AANHPI Heritage Month to the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander community in my congressional district in Los Angeles County and across the country! The AANHPI community has helped make America what it is today through invaluable contributions to art, science, business, sports, education and beyond. As CAPAC celebrates its 30th year, I am thrilled to stand alongside my colleagues to mark AANHPI Heritage Month and celebrate our community across the country. Happy AANHPI Heritage Month!”
CAPAC Freshman Representative Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-02):
“As a proud fourth generation (yonsei) Okinawan representing a district with the largest Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander population in the country, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month is about lifting up our communities and celebrating the leadership and contributions of our people. AANHPI are the fastest growing population in the United States, representing over 50 ethnicities and speaking over 100 different languages. We are a diverse diaspora that deserves not only to be seen, but heard and represented, especially as we continue to battle social inequities, economic and health disparities, and AANHPI hate. As we come together to celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month, let us do so with perseverance and pride, and recognize the critical role we play in strengthening our nation.”
Sen. Tammy Duckworth (IL):
“Every Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor the trailblazers who came before us, uplift the diverse stories of our triumphs and celebrate our community as we continue to forge that path toward a better tomorrow where we all have the opportunity to achieve the American Dream. AANHPI stories are the American story—from our struggles to our triumphs and everything in between, that’s what we’re celebrating this May and always.”
Sen. Mazie Hirono (HI):
“Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebrates the historic contributions made by our communities and recognizes the challenges that we have overcome–from racist legislation to a rise in anti-Asian hate and violence. I join my colleagues in celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month to honor the strength of our communities and reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable future where members of the AANHPI community and all people are treated with dignity and respect.”
Rep. Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06):
“I’m proud to celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month to honor the vibrant cultures and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. From enterprising small business owners to dedicated healthcare professionals, our AANHPI neighbors throughout Sacramento County strengthen our economy and enrich our lives every day. Let’s continue working together to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Happy AANHPI Heritage Month!”
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07):
“As we begin Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, let us all acknowledge and celebrate the amazing contributions that AANHPI individuals have made to our country. From art to sports and from literature to elected office, we have made major impacts on America and have helped move this nation forward. As the first South Asian woman ever elected to Congress, I’m so proud to be a member of this incredible community and to have the opportunity to advocate for our priorities in government. It’s such an honor to be able to fight for equality every single day — and as we continue to do so, let’s lift each other up and take pride in who we are. Happy AANHPI Heritage Month!”
Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17):
“Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the expansive contributions of the AANHPI community to our nation’s economy, history, and culture. I am proud to represent California’s 17th District, home to the largest AANHPI community in the continental U.S. This month and every month, I will work with my CAPAC colleagues to support the AANHPI community, elevate their voices, and strive for a more inclusive society.”
Rep. Andy Kim (NJ-03):
“As our communities grow and evolve, and the challenges our country faces develop, it is as important as ever to ground ourselves in the strength of our diverse backgrounds and come together to uplift one another. Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is an important time to celebrate and highlight the contributions of AAPIs throughout American history. As hate and violence tries to divide, we cannot let voices and stories go unheard and overlooked. I look forward to celebrating our history and heritage this month as we work to come together and dispel xenophobia and any hate wherever it may live.”
Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08):
“Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders have a long and storied history in our country, and each May, we all take the opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the community’s achievements and the hardships it has overcome. During this AANHPI Heritage Month, let us build upon the progress of the trailblazing AANHPI Americans who came before us as we strive to build a more inclusive America.”
Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-12):
“Each May, we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month to honor the diverse culture, history, and contributions that AANHPI communities have brought across America. This month serves as a reminder of the struggles facing the AANHPI community, and the toll this takes on their livelihoods, families, and friends. We stand committed to upholding racial justice, equity, and inclusion for all communities of color. Let this month be a time of appreciation and solidarity for AANHPI cultures, strengthening our resolve to build a more just and equitable society for all Americans.”
Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-07):
“This month, we celebrate the immense impact that Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders have contributed to the American cultural fabric. The AA&NHPI community is a wonderfully diverse group within itself. We come from many different ethnic backgrounds with rich cultural traditions. From contributions to the arts, to science, and public service—AA&NHPI Heritage Month gives all Americans a time to uplift these achievements and honor our amazing tapestry of cultures.”
Rep. Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (MP-00):
“The celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month recognizes the achievements and contributions of such a vast, diverse group of Americans. For the people of the Northern Marianas, it is our own history and heritage. Home to the native Chamorros, it is also home to a crossroads of Asian communities, citizens of the Freely Associated States, and much more from our larger Pacific family in pursuit of their own American Dream. Collectively, we thrive at home with the array of cultures influencing one another; and for thousands of Marianas expatriates throughout the country, we pride ourselves on our shared values of family and strength in community. From the West Pacific to our nation’s capital, let us salute all AANHPI communities and our unique contributions to our nation.”
Rep. Nannette Barragán (CA-44):
“As we enter the month of May, it’s an honor to recognize and uplift the history, cultures, and contributions of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community in California’s 44th district and across our country. I am proud to join my colleagues in CAPAC in celebrating the vibrant diversity of AANHPIs and renewing our commitment to fostering inclusion, equity, and unity for all.”
Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10):
“As we celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I stand with my CAPAC colleagues in recognizing the many contributions the AANHPI community has made to our community and to our nation. I am proud to represent a district that is home to such a vibrant Asian American community whose impact makes our district a better place to live, raise our families, and do business. We would not be the same without their efforts and I am honored to have the opportunity to elevate their voices and heritage in Congress.”
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07):
“As we mark the beginning of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we recognize the contributions these Americans have made to our country and our community—from Patsy Mink, the first Asian American woman in Congress, to writer and producer Kevin Kwan from Houston, to astronaut Ellison Onizuka, the first Asian American to fly in space. I join my colleagues in the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus and neighbors in Houston in celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage, culture, and history. I look forward to continuing to partner with our dynamic Asian American community.”
Rep. Dan Goldman (NY-10):
“During Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we as a nation have an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and achievements of our AANHPI communities. From Manhattan’s Historic Chinatown to the rapidly-growing Sunset Park Chinatown in Brooklyn – and everywhere in between – AANHPI residents’ contributions to New York City’s culture and industry help make us the greatest city in the world. I’m proud to serve them in New York City and in Washington.”
Rep. Susie Lee (NV-03):
“Nevada’s Third Congressional District is home to one of the largest and fastest-growing AANHPI communities in the nation. We are incredibly proud of the Asian American communities and local leaders, small business owners, and hardworking families who make our community an incredible place to live. From Chinatown to the Las Vegas Strip, southern Nevada draws its strength from our diversity and AANHPI Nevadans are at the center of that success. This month and every month, I will continue to help elevate their voices, stories, and struggles in the highest halls of our democracy.”
Rep. Rob Menendez (NJ-08):
“As we celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we commemorate the remarkable impact made by the AANHPI community in New Jersey’s Eighth Congressional District and across our country. It’s an honor to represent and stand alongside our District’s large and diverse AANHPI community. I remain committed to amplifying AANHPI voices and honoring their significant and innumerable contributions to our country.”
Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15):
“California’s 15th Congressional District is home to many people of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage who enrich the San Francisco Peninsula with a diverse tapestry of cultures that make our region so special. I’m proud to be a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, which has been dedicated to addressing the needs of the AANHPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994. I’d like to wish the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus a happy 30th anniversary and look forward to continuing our work together. Happy AANHPI Heritage Month to everyone in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities in CA15 and across the country.”
Rep. Jerry Nadler (NY-12):
“This May, I’m proud to join my AANHPI constituents in celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month! As Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, it was my honor to hold hearings shedding light on the discrimination facing Asian American communities and how we can better ensure that all have the protection, justice, and equality that they deserve. New York City alone is home to more residents of Asian descent than any other city outside of Asia—and as a member of CAPAC, I’ll keep fighting on your behalf here in Washington.”
Rep. Katie Porter (CA-47):
“California is lucky to have deep-rooted, diverse Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities that enrich our state. During AANHPI Heritage Month, we recognize their long, proud history, celebrate their vast contributions that strengthen America, and recommit to delivering on our nation’s promise of equality and justice for all. I’m thrilled to join my colleagues to celebrate our friends and neighbors, uplift AANHPI voices across the country, and advocate for Orange County families.”
Rep. Ayanna Pressley (MA-07):
“During AANHPI Heritage Month and every month, we celebrate the immeasurable contributions, vibrant culture, and rich history of our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) neighbors in the Massachusetts 7th and beyond. As we reflect and recognize the importance of this month, we must recommit to standing against anti-Asian hate and injustices. Our communities are stronger, safer, and healthier when we work to include every person who calls this country home. I am proud to be a member of CAPAC and to represent a diverse and active AANHPI community in Congress.”
Rep. Linda Sánchez (CA-38):
“I’m proud to join my CAPAC colleagues in celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month! Southern California is home to a large and vibrant AANHPI community that has greatly contributed to our rich culture, history and success. I’m honored to represent them in Congress and join them as we celebrate all May.”
