WHEREAS, May is nationally recognized as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the diverse cultures, rich histories, and significant contributions of the AAPI community to the fabric of our nation and the City of Richmond; and
WHEREAS, the AAPI Community Celebration on May 2, 2026, is an opportunity to celebrate the diverse cultures within the AAPI community, including those of West and Central Asia, and is designed to build relationships and foster solidarity across AAPI groups and communities; and
WHEREAS, this event recognizes culture as power, acknowledging that cultural capital is an asset that shapes political and economic systems; and further recognizes that at the individual and community level, cultural expression preserves traditions, sustains connections to home, and can itself be an act of resistance; and WHEREAS, this celebration is made possible through the sponsorship of the City of Richmond and the collaborative efforts of a dedicated coalition of community partners, including:
• The SAFE Center
• The Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice
• The Center for Empowering Refugees and Immigrants
• Community Health for Asian Americans
• East Bay Center for the Performing Arts
• NAMI Contra Costa
• Project Second Chance, Contra Costa Libraries
• Stand Together Contra Costa
• Diversity in Health
• RotaCare West
• Immigration Institute of the Bay Area
• Jubilee Legal
• Asian Pacific Environmental Network
• The Latina Center; and
HONORING ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER (AAPI)
HERITAGE MONTH AND CELEBRATING COMMUNITY
RESILIENCY IN THE CITY OF RICHMOND
WHEREAS, the festivities showcase the vibrant cultural spirit of Richmond through a Resource Fair, a Talent Show by local artists, a Fashion Show by The Latina Center and Nepali children, and performances by the Sakura Kai Taiko Drumming group, the Namchod Kyetsel Tibetan folk dance team, the East Bay Bokeo Lao- Khmu dancers, and the Rose's Nepali youth dancers.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Richmond City Council does hereby proclaim May 2026 as AAPI Heritage Month in the City of Richmond and encourages all residents to join in this celebration of culture and community solidarity.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that I, Eduardo Martinez, the Mayor of the City of Richmond commends all participating organizations and performers for their dedication to building a more inclusive Richmond where every immigrant and minority community is seen, heard, and supported.
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Mayor Eduardo Martinez
At Large
April 28, 2026
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Council Member Soheila Bana
District 6