MAYOR GIULIANI PROCLAIMS ASIAN PACIFIC HERITAGE MONTH
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani this evening proclaimed the month of May as Asian Pacific Heritage Month in New York City during a reception and celebration at Gracie Mansion.
The Mayor presented the proclamation to James Chin, Chair of The Board of Standards and Appeals. Angelica O. Tang, Executive Director of the Office of Immigrant Affairs and Language Services, served as Master of Ceremonies.
"The history and tradition of the Asian Pacific American community in New York City has been vibrant and long-standing," said Mayor Giuliani. "It is virtually impossible to imagine our City without the influence of Asian Pacific Americans on our collective culture. For more than 200 years New York's Asian Pacific American community has served as one of the most dynamic segments of our City and its presence has made our City an immeasurably more exciting place to live and visit.
"The growth of the Asian Pacific American population in New York speaks to the success of our partnership," the Mayor continued. "The population of Asian Pacific American New Yorkers has doubled every ten years and now stands at over three-quarters of a million people -- nearly ten percent of our City's total population. Our Asian Pacific American community represents a wonderful diversity of distinct cultures, each with its own religion, language and tradition," the Mayor concluded.
The month-long event is designed to promote cooperation and understanding among Asian Pacific Americans; promote, represent and advocate the interest of Asian Pacific American communities; and provide a conducive environment for Asian Pacific Americans to utilize their history, culture and art to foster self-esteem and respect for their heritage. The first Asian Pacific Heritage week was proclaimed by President Jimmy Carter in May 1979.
The event, sponsored by Sprint and MetLife, was attended by over 500 guests from the Asian Pacific American communities.
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