New York Governor Hochul announced the appointment of six new members to the Asian American and Pacific Islander Commission on May 28th. Among the new members is Peter Tu, the Chief Adviser of the Flushing Chinese Business Association. To celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, on the evening of May 28th, 14 landmarks in New York State will be illuminated with pink and light blue lights as a gesture of celebration.
Governor Hochul emphasized that celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a significant recognition of the vibrant AAPI community. The newly appointed members of the New York State AAPI Commission are all highly qualified individuals dedicated to public service, and they are expected to play crucial roles in the commission’s work.
The six newly appointed AAPI Commission members are:
1. Peter Tu, Chief Adviser of the Flushing Chinese Business Association (FBCA)
2. Andrew Sta. Ana, Deputy Director of Research and Policy at Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAF)
3. Kyung Yoon, Chair of the Korean American Community Foundation (KACF)
4. Gaurav Vasisht, CEO of the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF)
5. Tai Shaw, Chair of the Syracuse Chapter of Asian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs Association (APAPA)
6. Tim Law, Founder of the Chinese-American Community Center
The New York State AAPI Commission was established in November 2023 according to legislation. Its mission is to provide policy recommendations and coordinate projects to enhance the well-being of the AAPI community. Governor Hochul has always been a supporter of the AAPI community, approving the celebration of Chinese New Year and Diwali as statewide public school holidays. Last year, she allocated $30 million to assist community organizations in combating hate crimes and promoting well-being. This year’s state budget includes $30 million for these important initiatives, along with an additional $35 million to enhance the security of organizations vulnerable to hate crimes and destructive acts.
Shawn Ma, Director of Asian Affairs for the Governor, stated that the establishment of the AAPI Commission is a strategic support for the AAPI community. The recommendations provided by the commission will greatly benefit New York State in creating an inclusive and constructive environment.
In addition, on May 28th, Governor Hochul announced that on the same evening, 14 New York State landmarks would be illuminated with pink and light blue lights to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. These landmarks include:
– Empire State Building
– Niagara Falls
– Grand Central Terminal
– Long Island Rail Road – Penn Station
– Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
– Kosciuszko Bridge
– New York State Education Building
– H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
– Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
– New York State Fairgrounds
– Albany International Airport
– Fairport Lift Bridge over Erie Canal
– Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station