Governor Proclaims Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2024

ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH

2024

BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

A PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, Asian Americans across the United States can trace their roots to more than 20 countries in East and Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and the Pacific Islands, each with unique histories, cultures and languages; and

WHEREAS, North Carolina has been home to members of the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities since the mid-19th century, when the first Chinese immigrants began to settle in the state; and

WHEREAS, the efforts and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders can be seen across many aspects of society, including education, business, and science, playing a pivotal role in North Carolina's rich history; and

WHEREAS, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders account for nearly 6.4 percent of the American population and 4.1 percent of North Carolina's population, and are projected to continue increasing in size, making AAPI the fastest growing racial or ethnic group in the United States; and

WHEREAS, throughout history, Asian American and Pacific Islanders have faced adversity and used their strength and persistence to become leaders and trailblazers, including Kamala Harris, the first person of South Asian descent to serve as Vice President of the United States; and

WHEREAS, in 1977, a joint resolution was passed by the U.S. Congress directing the President to issue a proclamation designating the week beginning on May 4, 1979, as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week; and

WHEREAS, in 1992, the U.S. Congress passed a law permanently designating May of each year as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina recognizes the paramount importance of actively promoting the understanding of, fostering appreciation for, and raising awareness of the rich and diverse cultures and history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders among its residents;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May, 2024, as “ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.

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Roy Cooper

Governor