The Port of Seattle Commission passed a proclamation yesterday commemorating May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, which acknowledges the contributions of the “Home of Asian and Pacific Islander” (HAPI) celebrating the history, contributions, and achievements of AANHPIs across the nation and at the Port of Seattle.
“Each successive generation of AANHPI’s helped build our great nation’s infrastructure and economy, and defended our democracy in times of crisis,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner Sam Cho. “The AANHPI community have laid railroad tracks, tilled fields, started businesses, cared for our infirm, and served honorably in the military to protect freedom in this nation.”
“Our communities represent unique cultures and experiences across the world. However, there are things we have in common, and solidarity makes us a stronger advocacy force. AANHPI Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the unity of our diverse communities in advancing justice for all,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner Toshiko Hasegawa. “We uplift the many contributions of AANHPI’s who have helped move this country towards its ideals.”
Throughout the month, Commissioners Cho and Hasegawa will share their experiences as AANHPI leaders with Port employees, building solidarity while finding further ways to support opportunities for the community. The proclamation in support of AANHPI may be found here.
The annual Asian and Pacific American Heritage Week was first introduced by Congressmen Norm Mineta and Frank Horton in 1977 and transformed over the following decades to a month-long celebration known as APA Heritage Month, which was officially designated in 1990.
Contact
Peter McGraw | Port of Seattle Media Officer
(206) 787-3446 | mcgraw.p@portseattle.org
