HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023 May Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage MonthCOLUMBIA b HEIGHTS
PROCLAMATION
Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotan Heritage Month: May 2023
WHEREAS, 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; and
WHEREAS, 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; and
WHEREAS, The Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotan community's long and deeply
rooted legacy reminds us of both proud and painful chapters of our history; and
WHEREAS, During the COVID-19 pandemic, Asian and Pacific Islander Minnesotans have
reported an increased level of discrimination and hate crimes because of the virus's
geographic origin; and
WHEREAS, Viruses don t discriminate, and neither should we; and
WHEREAS, 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; and
WHEREAS, 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, 2023 to be Asian and Pacific Islander
Heritage Month in the City of Columbia Heights, County of Anoka, State of Minnesa ,
U.S.A.
A ada Marquez S' u a, Mayor
April 24, 2023