On Tuesday, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a proclamation marking May as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month.
“Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are a diverse, inextricable part of our state’s cultural tapestry and economic vibrancy,” said Whitmer. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen a horrific rise in hate crimes and bias targeting Asian Americans. Let me be clear: hate has no home here in Michigan. We must do more to put an end to these incidents and create a more inclusive society where all individuals are valued and respected.”
“It is even more important this year than previous years to recognize Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month. As the community continues to face rising hate incidents across the state and country, we must celebrate the history and heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have contributed so much to our society and economy,”
said State Senator Stephanie Chang. “We must bring more light to issues affecting AAPIs and further our commitment to addressing the many inequities that continue to exist.
We should start by appropriating more funds to our Department of Civil Rights and Hate Crimes Unit for know your rights outreach about discrimination and hate crimes.”
“May is a wonderful time for all of us to celebrate our cultural heritage, and an equally important time to recognize the history and contributions of the AAPI community in Michigan and across America,” said Ayesha Ghazi-Edwin, chair of Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission (MAPAAC). “MAPAAC is grateful for the leadership of Gov. Whitmer, elected officials and community leaders who continue to embrace and uplift our voices to ensure we expand inclusive and welcoming communities across Michigan.”
The month of May celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese people to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, where the majority of the workers who laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants. Asian Americans are the fastest growing population in Michigan and the United States and make up 3.7% of the state’s total population. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have made many significant cultural and economic contributions to Michigan and the United States.
- Posted May 12, 2021
- Tweet This | Share on Facebook
Whitmer signs proclamation marking May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Month
headlines Oakland County
- Annual Dinner & Meeting
- FORCE Team arrests six in prolific auto theft ring
- Michigan allocates $12 million to support community-based organizations in advancing environmental and climate justice
- Oakland County and SMART launch pilot program providing free transit for veterans and dependents
- Supreme Court sides with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
headlines National
- More lawyers—and clients—want to learn about sustainable development practices
- Top artificial intelligence insurance tips for lawyers
- Lawyer charged with illegally transmitting Michigan data after 2020 election
- Viral video shows former Rikers Island inmate as she learns she passed bar exam on first try
- How Sullivan & Cromwell is scrutinizing potential new hires after campus protests
- No separate hearing required when police seize cars loaned to drivers accused of drug crimes, SCOTUS rules