Celebrate Asian American Heritage
Dear Friend,
One of the most unique facets of the Bay Area is the diversity of its cultures, languages and traditions. This area is home to many Asian American groups which have greatly shaped the Bay Area. I am proud to serve and represent this region. About 25% of San Mateo County residents are Asian American and Pacific Islander.
This month of May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Throughout this month, I would like to celebrate the successes and remember the challenges that Asian Americans have overcome.
Here are just a few of the great local events celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month:
5th Annual CSM Asian Pacific American Film Festival
May 7, 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
College of San Mateo-College Center Building 10, Room 194
1700 West Hillsdale Boulevard, San Mateo
(650) 574-6614
Anson Burlingame: His Legacy in US – China Relations
May 10, 1 p.m.
San Mateo County History Museum
2200 Broadway, Redwood City
(650) 299-0104
10th Annual Hill Physicians Asian Heritage Street Celebration
May 17, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Larkin Street (from Grove to Ellis), San Francisco
Asian American Heritage Future Roots Festival
May 24, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Plaza de Cesar Chavez
170 S. Market Street, San Jose
(408) 535-4902
Him Mark Lai: A Lifetime of Chinese American History
June 21, 2 p.m.
San Mateo Main Library
55 West Third Avenue, San Mateo
(650) 522-7818
When Asian immigrants first arrived to the United States, they sought opportunities to create a new life. Although they were able to find work as gold rush miners, contract laborers and transcontinental railroad workers, they were also victims of unfair working conditions and ethnic discrimination. Despite the fact that immigrants from Japan, China, the Philippines and other countries faced many hardships, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have continued to prosper and persevere.
Today, Asian Americans have made contributions to our society in art, literature, music, science and technology. These citizens serve as public servants, researchers, scientists, teachers, law enforcement and doctors. As the Bay Area continues to expand, let us remember the obstacles that all immigrants have endured. These groups have brought with them their traditions, religions and community values which have shaped the American culture today.
Sincerely,
Kevin Mullin
Assemblymember, 22nd District
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