Celebrate Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and is a time to celebrate and acknowledge the history, traditions and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders that continue to impact American society positively.

AAPI Heritage commemoration was proposed in 1977 as a week-long observance of the accomplishments and history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, including the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States, in May 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in May 1869, due to the assistance of countless Chinese laborers.

This observance was extended to the entire month of May in 1992 by President George H. W. Bush.

The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) chose “Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration” as its theme this year. It's a continuation of FAPAC’s “Advancing Leaders” series to empower leaders in communities and inspire innovation, creating a brighter future for people of all ethnicities.

The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) recognizes the increase in hate crimes, especially those directed toward the Asian community. All Americans, regardless of race, deserve to be treated kindly and equally.

As the executive director of the FCHR, I urge Florida citizens who feel they have been discriminated against in the workplace, public accommodations or housing to contact our agency. Our goal is to eliminate discrimination in the state, and contacting us is the first step to achieving it.

The FCHR can be contacted at 850-488-7082 or by visiting the website at fchr.state.fl.us/.