Oxnard City Council: May 7, 2024
Agenda Item F.2. “Presentation of a Proclamation Designating the Month of May 2024 as “Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Heritage Month”
Mayor Zaragoza, Councilmembers, City Staff, and Members of the Public:
As the city is gathered in celebrating the proclamation designating the month of May 2024 as “Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Heritage Month”, we can reflect on the remarkable contributions of Asian Americans right here in Oxnard, across Ventura County, and throughout the great state of California.
Did you know that in Oxnard alone, Asian Americans constitute a significant portion of our diverse population, representing approximately 15% of our residents? Across Ventura County, the Asian American population has been steadily growing with over 100,000 individuals contributing to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of our region.
These numbers tell a story of resilience and community building, from establishing thriving businesses to enriching our cultural scene, Asian Americans have played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of Oxnard and Ventura County, overcoming historical challenges and discrimination, and embodying the values of hard work and determination.
Several mayors of this city were of Asian descent, starting in 1966 with William “Bill” Soo Hoo (the first Chinese-American mayor in California), Tsujio Kato (who led the Strawberry Festival to be nationally recognized) in 1976, and Nao Takasugi in 1982 (who served in the California Assembly for 3 terms after his mayorship).
Together, as we embark on this month-long celebration, let us welcome the diversity that enriches our city and honors the heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, not just this month, but every day.
Congratulations to the City of Oxnard on this proclamation and may it inspire us to continue building a more equitable and inclusive future for all. Thank you.
- Ronald Arruejo, Oxnard Resident