New York State Governor Kathy Hochul on May 2, 2023, issued a proclamation commemorating May 2023 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. She also announced the launch of an exhibition titled, "New York Stories: Voices from Asian American Pacific Islander Communities", that celebrates the voices of the AAPI community in New York State.
The expo, that will run throughout May in the State Capitol will elevate the voices of the AAPI community with descriptions of resilience, sacrifice, and community building that contribute to the overarching “New York Story.”
According to a news release, the stories presented on display include a roundtable conference featuring the Governor with Asian American Leaders on hate crimes in March 2022. Additionally, the exhibition will narrate the transformation of cities into bustling economic and multicultural hubs, broadening the horizons of New Yorkers by introducing them to new cultures and traditions, and providing a welcoming environment for refugees and their families hoping to start a new life in the Empire State.
Hochul said that the State of New York has long served as a beacon of hope for immigrants and marginalized communities. "Our AAPI communities make us stronger, more resilient and more innovative and I hope that this month brings great joy as many across the state celebrate their rich heritage," she added.
New York State Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette M Moy said, "Governor Hochul has identified the diversity of New York State’s population as the source of its strength and has made supporting our AAPI communities a priority of her administration. OGS is proud to have created a unique and informative AAPI Heritage Month display in the Capitol that celebrates the community’s cultural and historic contributions to our State."
