HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026 May Asian and Pacific Islander MN Heritage MonthCOLUMBIA 0 HEIGHTS
PROCLAMATION
Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotan Heritage Month: May 2026
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 in the state.
The Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotan community's long and deeply rooted legacy
reminds us of both proud and painful chapters of our history.
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, culture, and communities. We
also recommit to ensuring opportunities exist for generations of Asian and Pacific Islander
Minnesotans to come.
We celebrate Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotan Heritage Month to ensure that the
cultures, histories, and stories of this community are seen, heard, and honored.
I, Amada Marquez Simula, Mayor of Columbia Heights, do hereby proclaim the month of
May 2026 to be Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the City of Columbia
Heights, County of Anoka, State of Minnesota, U.S.A.
1 �
A Ada Mir uez Sim a, ayor
May 26, 2026