Item Description:
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Declaring Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Hennepin County May 2023 - offered by Commissioner Fernando
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WHEREAS:
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WHEREAS, 1990 was the first year for a national month long proclamation for Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPI) Month; and
WHEREAS, Hennepin County is proud to celebrate the cultural traditions and languages among the vibrant more than 40 ethnic groups in our community from Asia and the Pacific Islands; and
WHEREAS, according to the state, there are more than 320,000 Asian Pacific Minnesotans and the US Census Bureau reports more than 7.5% are Hennepin County residents; and
WHEREAS, the AAPI community has contributed to not only Hennepin County but to our state and country enriching our culture and society; and
WHEREAS, Hennepin County recommits to creating an equitable community for AAPI residents; and
WHEREAS, while there are many achievements and successes to celebrate, challenges persist as it relates to economic and health inequities and personal safety; and
WHEREAS, acts of hate and violence persist against AAPI residents, Hennepin County will continue to stand with our AAPI community condemning and denouncing all forms of hate; and
WHEREAS, inequities faced today by AAPI communities stem from our Nation’s history of exclusion, discrimination, racism, and xenophobia against Asian Americans; and
WHEREAS, Hennepin County has an Asian Connections Employee Resource Group who aim to promote diversity, embrace all Asian heritage, and connect the county with the diverse Asian community; and
WHEREAS, the triumphs and influence of the Asian American/Pacific Islander community is significant not only in Hennepin County but throughout our state and country, enriching our culture and society.
Resolution:
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners hereby proclaim May 2023, as Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month and honor and celebrate the rich experience shared by Asian American Pacific Islanders in the Hennepin County organization and in the community.
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Background:
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Recommendation from County Administrator: Recommend Approval