HomeMy WebLinkAboutProclamation - Celebrating Asian American Heritage Month 2025CITY OF
ASHLAND
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A Proclamation Celebrating Asian American Heritage Month
Whereas: The month of May was designated as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage
Month in 1992 to recognize the innumerable contributions, vibrant cultures, and rich heritage
of Asian Americans, native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. As some of the fastest -growing
racial and ethnic groups in the nation, these communities represent a multitude of ethnicities,
languages and experiences that enrich America.
Whereas: Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have lived and worked in Oregon for more
than 200 years, contributing to the state's rich history, economy, and culture. Their history in
Oregon is marked by a struggle for freedom, equity, and justice, prevailing over the adversity
of exclusion, persecution, incarceration, and disparities. These populations have helped
advance Oregon's prosperity through their contributions to all fields of education, business,
the arts, economic development, science, and technology.
Whereas: In Ashland, Chinese laborers built the railroad linking southern Oregon to the rest of
the country. We have recognized that major contribution, through the public art sculpture
titled 'Golden Connections' in Railroad Park.
Whereas: Anti -Asian hate crimes are on the rise. As we celebrate these populations, we must
redouble our commitment to combating the surge of anti -Asian hate crimes. These acts are
wrong; they must stop.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Tonya Graham, Mayor of the City of Ashland, Oregon, on behalf of the City
Council, do hereby acknowledge the month of May as a time to celebrate the contributions of
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to our culture and collective history. I call upon the
people of Ashland to observe this month with appropriate reflection and learning and make
time to visit Railroad Park and Golden Spike. In Ashland we are Better Together.
Dated May 6, 2025
Tanya Graham, Mayor
Alissa Kolodzinski, City Recorder