Flushing, NY – Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky, Assemblymember Ron Kim, and Council Member Peter Koo celebrated Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage by recognizing community leaders for their dedication and hard work. Among those honored were Congresswoman Grace Meng, Sudha Archarya of the South Asian Council for Social Services, Christopher Kui of Asian Americans for Equality, Linda Lee of Korean Community Services of Metropolitan New York, and Michael Wang of the Chinese American Planning Council Nan-Shan Senior Center.

“Queens prides itself on being one of the most diverse and welcoming areas in the world and it is my honor to represent many of Eastern Queens’ growing Asian America communities,” said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic. “Asian Americans have made great contributions our country through their participation in public service and diversifying the fabric of our culture. Today, we recognize and pay tribute to those of different origins who create change locally. I am proud to join my colleagues in government in recognizing all the honorees and I look forward to continue to working with them to fight for better schools, broader language access across government agencies, greater economic development, and advanced immigrants’ rights in our community.”

“During this time of year, we recognize the outstanding achievements and contributions that the Asian American and Pacific Islander community has made to our neighborhoods, communities and country," said U.S. Rep. Grace Meng. “I am proud to join my colleagues and constituents in celebrating this annual occasion, and I thank them for the great honor they’ve bestowed upon me this evening.”

Senator Toby Ann Stavisky stated, “I am proud to represent so many Asian Americans in the State Senate. They have brought their unique cultures to an already diverse county and helped rejuvenate and revitalize the community. Their presence enriches all of our lives. During National Asian Pacific Heritage Month we will honor their many contributions to the economy, cultural heritage, and social fabric of our great State of New York. We celebrate their vibrant leadership across every aspect of American life and their dynamic and successful impact in every field of endeavor.”

“Asian Heritage Month is an important time set specifically to celebrate the contributions of our community in our nation's history,” commented Assemblyman Ron Kim, “May was chosen to commemorate the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. The majority of the workers who laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants. American history shows clearly the struggles of our community throughout time. Taking the time to remember and to celebrate our progress as a nation and the part that we played in that progress is significant. Today, I am honored to be able to stand alongside my colleagues to congratulate and commend the wonderful work of several of our community leaders who work tirelessly to continue to be a voice for our community; Chris Kui with the Asian Americans for Equality, Sudha Archarya of the South Asian Council for Social Services, Michael Wang of the Chinese American Planning Council Nan-Shan Senior Center, Linda Lee of the Korean Community Services, and of course, my predecessor and friend, Congresswoman Grace Meng. They constantly show the strength of our community through their continuous advocacy and dedication.”

Council Member Peter Koo stated, “May is designated to celebrate Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, a time to reflect upon the countless Asian and Pacific Islanders in the United States whose enduring legacies have woven the very rich fabric of our nation. All Americans are heirs of this extraordinary progress. As we remember the myriad of significant sacrifices they have made in the name of freedom and justice, we also call attention to the great individuals who strengthen our community today. It is my honor to recognize these outstanding individuals for their selfless dedication to our community.”

In 1992, the federal government designated May of each year as Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month in commemoration of the long history and continued contributions of the AAPI community.