Recognizing Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Published on May 01, 2024

Photo courtesy of Dipzyworld Photography

Charlotte is home to more than 60,000 Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) residents who have helped shape Charlotte into the diverse, welcoming, and innovative city it is today. This month, let's celebrate the rich heritage and resilience of our Asian American and Pacific Islander neighbors, colleagues, and friends.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles has issued the following proclamation declaring May 2024 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month:

WHEREAS, each year, Americans observe Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month by celebrating the diverse histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens, residents, and immigrants of this region; and 

WHEREAS, in 1978, a joint congressional resolution established Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week; the month of May was chosen with two important milestones: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in the United States on May 7, 1843 and contributions of Chinese workers to the building of the transcontinental railroad, completed on May 10, 1869; and 

WHEREAS, in 1992, Congress expanded the observance to a monthlong celebration that is known as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month; and 

WHEREAS, in 1997, under a U.S. Office of Management and Budget directive, the Asian or Pacific Islander racial category was separated into two categories, Asian and Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander; and 

WHEREAS, a community organized celebration of the AAHNPI Heritage Month in Charlotte began in 2000 with the Asian Festival, held in Marshall Park, and continues every year (except 2020); and 

WHEREAS, according to the Office of the U.S Census, Mecklenburg County is home to more than 60,000 AAHNPI residents; the city of Charlotte recognizes the extraordinary contributions by this community of immigrants, residents, and citizens of the AAHNPI origin: 

NOW, THEREFORE, and I, Vi Alexander Lyles, Mayor of Charlotte, do hereby proclaim the May 2024 as 

"ASIAN AMERICAN, NATIVE HAWAIIAN, AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH" 

in Charlotte and commend its observance to all citizens. 

At-large City Council Member Dimple Ajmera kicks off AAPI Heritage Month.