WHEREAS, the Delaware General Assembly recognizes the importance of joining together in May to pay tribute to the contributions of generations of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities who have enriched and strengthened this state and nation; and
WHEREAS, the story of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders is one that continues to shape and write the history of this state and nation; and
WHEREAS, the Asian American and Pacific Islander community has time and time again demonstrated commendable grit and resilience, from the Chinese laborers that built the first Transcontinental Railroad to the workers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields that continue to prepare this state and nation for tomorrow; and
WHEREAS, the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities continue to make pivotal strides in business, education, the arts, entertainment, and government, such as public servants like our own Dr. Shien Biau Woo and Shailen Bhatt who served as Delaware Lieutenant Governor from 1985 to 1989, and Delaware Secretary of Transportation from 2011 to 2014, respectively; and
WHEREAS, an estimated 43,000 people of Asian American and Pacific Islander descent are living in Delaware, representing a diverse array of backgrounds, faiths, and occupations; and
WHEREAS, by 2060, Delaware is predicted to be one of the most diverse states in the nation, set to become a majority-minority state; and
WHEREAS, Asian Americans are the highest-income, best-educated, and fastest-growing racial group in the United States, placing heavy emphasis on the values of parenthood, family, and work ethic; and
WHEREAS, Asian American and Pacific Islanders will continue to weave the fabrics of this state and nation and sculpt all facets of our society, culture, and daily life; and
WHEREAS, Delaware has been historically enriched by the deep roots of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino residents in this state, apparent in the vibrant Hindu temples and Sikh centers, North Star’s Indo-American Community Center, Hockessin’s Chinese American Community Center, and Delaware Chinese American Association, and a Filipino cultural school for those from the Philippines; and
WHEREAS, we must also recognize the discrimination, prejudice, and outright violence that Asian American and Pacific Islander communities face; and
WHEREAS, throughout American history, Asian American and Pacific Islanders have been the target of xenophobic policies at the federal, state, and local levels, including needless violence, eviction, disenfranchisement, and attempts to restrict immigration; and
WHEREAS, the shameful increase in Anti-Asian hate across the country during the COVID-19 pandemic has been perpetuated by the spread of misinformation and harmful rhetoric; and
WHEREAS, it is imperative we confront past and present racism and dedicate ourselves to uplift our Asian American and Pacific Islander friends and neighbors; and
WHEREAS, this General Assembly commits itself as an ally for the Delaware Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, fighting against discrimination, racism, and violence; and
WHEREAS, this General Assembly encourages all Delawareans to learn more about the vibrant history and culture of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
NOW, THEREFORE:
BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the 152nd General Assembly of the State of Delaware, the Senate concurring therein, that the celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander month as a month recognizing the contributions and influence of Asian American and Pacific Islanders and Asian American and Pacific Islander residents of this State who daily contribute to the prosperity of this State and Nation be recognized.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the 152nd General Assembly encourages all Delawareans to join the General Assembly in celebrating the collective strength, cultures, and resilience of Asian American and Pacific Islanders and learning about their culture and heritage.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this General Assembly commits itself to the fight for the inclusion, safety, and prosperity of our Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
