April 28, 2026
City Council
DATE: April 28, 2026
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
Councilmember Soheila Bana
Subject:
Proclamation Honoring Asian American and Pacific
Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and Recognizing The
AAPI Community Celebration
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this action. The proposed proclamation and recognition of the AAPI
Community Celebration are supported by existing City
sponsorships and collaborative contributions from
participating community organizations.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None.
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage
Month is observed annually in May to recognize the
historical and cultural contributions of people of Asian and Pacific Islander descent to the United States. In
Richmond, the AAPI population in Richmond makes up
about 14 percent of the City’s population and represents a vital part of our City’s diversity, entrepreneurship, and cultural resilience.
On May 2, 2026, the City of Richmond is sponsoring a
community-wide celebration at the Richmond Memorial
Auditorium. This event is a collaborative effort involving a broad coalition of community partners, county partners, and social service organizations.
AGENDA
REPORT
April 28, 2026
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
PROCLAMATION declaring May 2026 as Asian
American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in
the City of Richmond and recognizing the AAPI
Community Celebration at the Richmond Auditorium -
Councilmember Soheila Bana (510-672-3490).
DISCUSSION:
The 2026 AAPI Community Celebration is designed to foster solidarity across diverse AAPI groups, specifically including those from West and Central Asia. The event is centered on the theme of "Culture as Power," recognizing that cultural expression is not only a way to preserve traditions but also a form of "cultural capital" that strengthens the political and economic standing of our residents.
The celebration includes:
Cultural Performances: Taiko drumming, Tibetan folk dance, Lao-Khmu dance, and Nepali youth dance
Community Solidarity: Resource fair featuring approximately 20 partners offering legal, health, education, and social services
Youth Engagement: Talent show and fashion show featuring local artists and youth from diverse backgrounds, including Nepali and Latino communities Flavors from Around the World: Afghan, Nepali, and Eritrean cuisine
With this proclamation, the City of Richmond reaffirms its commitment to racial equity and social justice, ensuring that our immigrant and minority communities are seen, heard, and celebrated.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Proclamation Honoring AAPI Heritage Month and Celebrating Community Resiliency