HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025 May Asian and Pacific Islander MonthCOLUMBIA CH HEIGHTS
PROCLAMATION
Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotan Heritage Month: May 2025
The month of May was chosen by Congress to commemorate the arrival of the first
Japanese immigrant to the United States on May 7,1843. In Minnesota, the first Asian
person noted on record came to Duluth, Minnesota, in 1875.
Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotans continue to make Minnesota home, with more than
300,000 Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotans representing over 40 different nationalities
making this the fastest -growing community.
The Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotan community's long and deeply rooted legacy
reminds us of both proud and painful chapters of our history.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotans reported an
increased level of discrimination and hate crimes because of the virus's geographic origin.
Viruses don't discriminate, and neither should we.
We honor the irreplaceable roles Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotans have played in our
past, including the rich diversity they brought to the state through waves of migration; we
celebrate the valuable contributions of generations of immigrants and refugees who have
left an indelible mark on the state of Minnesota's economy as well as our culture; and we
recommit to ensuring opportunities exist for generations of Asian Pacific Islander
Minnesotans to come.
We celebrate Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotans Heritage Month to ensure that the
cultures, histories, and stories of this community are seen and heard.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Amada Marquez Simula, Mayor of Columbia
Heights, do hereby proclaim the month of May, 2025 to be Asian and Pacific Islander
Heritage Month in the City of Columbia Heights, County of Anoka, State of Minnesota,
U.S.A.
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AgUda M' uez Si la,� ayor
April 28, 2025