Las Vegas, Nev. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) released the following statement today celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which is commemorated every May:
“Nevada is home to a vibrant and diverse Asian Pacific American community. During the month of May, Nevadans come together to celebrate the cultures, foods, people, and centuries-old traditions of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. Throughout Nevada, their achievements and contributions are growing our economy, enriching our communities, and strengthening the bright future of our state. From the migration of the first Japanese to the United States, to the work of Chinese immigrants in building the transcontinental railroad, to the growing Filipino community in Nevada, the contributions of Asian Pacific Americans throughout our history have undeniably made our country stronger. Generations of Asian Pacific American immigrants have come to our country, overcome discrimination like the Chinese Exclusion Act and the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, and fought for a better future for those that came after. I honor that history. I am proud to celebrate our leaders, innovators, business owners, teachers, and role models – past and present – for all they’ve done to enrich Nevada.”