網頁

星期一, 5月 01, 2017

MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES JAMAICA PLAIN LIBRARY GRAND OPENING; NEW AND ONGOING CAPITAL LIBRARY FUNDING

MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES JAMAICA PLAIN LIBRARY GRAND OPENING;  NEW AND ONGOING CAPITAL LIBRARY FUNDING 
BOSTON - Monday, May 1, 2017 - Reaffirming his commitment to bringing quality library services to neighborhoods throughout the City, Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced the reopening of the Jamaica Plain Branch to be held on May 20th after a $10 million renovation, along with nearly $14 million in planned library projects across the city in FY18 and an additional $102 million in funding for library projects slated for FY19-FY22.

Mayor Martin J. Walsh's FY18-FY22 Capital Budget reflects a commitment to the Boston Public Library as a 21st century urban public library under the leadership of the Trustees of the Boston Public Library and BPL President David Leonard. This year, BPL and the City of Boston Public Facilities Department will open the renovated Jamaica Plain Branch, break ground on new branches, launch design and programming studies for others, and address a slate of interior and exterior upgrades in branches across the City.

A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 20 at 11 a.m. to celebrate the reopening of the Jamaica Plain Branch at 30 South Street. The $10 million renovation revitalizes the branch services and spaces, including a 20 percent increase in space for the community to read, browse the collection, access computers, attend and host meetings, and participate in programming. All are welcome to attend this event.

"Libraries are essential resources for neighborhoods, and it is important that we continue investing in them to improve access, add services and build a strong sense of community," said Mayor Walsh. "The renovation project in Jamaica Plain is a great example of how we're giving community members the 21st century services needed to pursue their passions. I am grateful to all involved for bringing this project to fruition, and look forward to the future projects across the City that will enhance our libraries."

"The renovation is a collaborative effort between the City of Boston, the library and the community, and we are confident the renovation will serve as a gathering space for lifelong learners, meeting the needs of our users today and well into the future," said David Leonard, President of the Boston Public Library.   

The renovation features a 700-square foot addition facing South Street that will serve as a community reading lounge; a terrace along Sedgwick Street where residents can read and mingle; multiple meeting spaces; improved and more flexible space for children, teens and adults; and a refreshed collection of 30,000 items. Technology improvements include 15 new desktop and 20 laptop computers, free WiFi, additional self-checkout stations, and creativity software in the new digital maker-space. Other features include an elevator for full ADA accessibility to all levels, new and more efficient mechanical systems, parking for over 20 bikes, and new exterior landscaping.

Boston Public Library, the City of Boston's Public Facilities Department, Utile, Inc. Architecture & Planning, the design firm for the project, collaborated closely with the Friends of the Jamaica Plain Branch Library and the community at-large to design a renovated library that fulfills the needs of library patrons and visitors. The general contractor for the project is Colantonio, Inc.

Most major renovations or new construction projects undergo a programming, design, and construction phase, including significant community engagement to gain input, feedback and insight from users.  

The American Institute of Architects (AIA), along with the American Library Association (ALA) recently awarded eight library buildings across the United States with their annual AIA/ALA Library Building Award. Two of the eight buildings recognized with this award were City of Boston projects, including the East Boston Branch and the Central Library Renovation of its Johnson Building.

Follow progress on these projects below via www.bpl.org/branchcapitalprojects.

Breaking Ground on New Branch Library Projects

Dudley Branch Construction (Dorchester)
In FY18, construction will begin at the Dudley Branch. This $14.7 million project is a comprehensive building renovation focused on supporting a welcoming and inviting experience and improved space for library services. The project includes the relocation of the entrance to improve its connection with Dudley Square, interior renovations to improve connections between the building's spaces, and enhanced community and program space.

Temporary Library Services in Chinatown in 2017
This calendar year library services will be restored to Chinatown after 54 years, fulfilling long-term community advocacy to restore library services to the neighborhood. These temporary library services will open at the China Trade Center located at 2 Boylston Street in Chinatown in 2017, while a planning project for long term services is underway. The location will include services such as a community gathering space, a place to study and learn, and access to computers and the internet.

Programming Studies to Transform Our Branches

Fields Corner Branch (Dorchester)
In FY18 planning will begin for a facility assessment and building program to identify the needs of the community, and condition of the current branch building. A total of $12.1 million is being invested as part of the five-year Capital Plan.

Uphams Corner Branch (Dorchester)
In FY18, planning will begin at the Uphams Corner Branch to re-imagine library services and spaces for the Uphams Corner neighborhood. A total of $18 million is being invested as part of the five-year Capital Plan.

Long Term Library Services in Chinatown
In FY18, planning for long term library services for the Chinatown and downtown communities will continue. This process will inform the Chinatown Library Services Planning Study and identify the types of program spaces, technology, and collections that are of interest to the community.

In addition, this calendar year library services will be restored to Chinatown after 54 years, fulfilling long-term community advocacy to restore library services to the neighborhood. These temporary library services will open at the China Trade Center located at 2 Boylston Street in Chinatown in 2017, while the planning project for long term services is underway. The location will include services such as a community gathering space, a place to study and learn, and access to computers and the internet.

Design Projects to Re-Imagine Our Branches
In FY18, design projects will begin at the Adams Street and Roslindale branches. In the design phase, architects review, update, and enhance the information from the programming study and start to design a building or renovation with the assistance of engineers and relevant discipline specialists.

Adams Street Branch (Dorchester)
In FY18, the design process for the 65-year old Adams Street Branch will launch. The soon-to-be completed programming study and community process will result in recommendations for new construction that will expand the building footprint, and add new meeting rooms, an enhanced teen space, and redesigned outdoor spaces. The total project cost, including construction is estimated at $12.6 million.

Roslindale Branch
In FY18 the Boston Public Library will continue the design process for the renovation of the Roslindale Branch. The renovation design will reconfigure the layout of the interior of the building using as a starting point a planning study completed with the community in 2013. The total project cost including construction is estimated at $6.7 million.

Facility Improvements to Update Existing Branch Spaces

Central Library (Downtown)
As part of the FY18-FY22 Capital Plan, $15.7 million will be invested to help preserve the historic rare books and manuscripts collection at the Central Library. The first phase of the project commenced in February 2017 with an inventory of the Rare Books & Manuscripts Department's nearly 250,000 rare books and one million manuscripts, in preparation for the second and major phase of the project: substantial renovation with a focus on environmental and mechanical improvements to better regulate temperature and humidity control of the department's collection storage areas, staff spaces, conservation lab, and public reading room.

Parker Hill (Roxbury)
In FY18, critical repairs to the Parker Hill Branch will address a series of façade and exterior problems and prevent future leaks at the branch. The project also includes interior painting, plaster repairs, masonry repairs, and window replacement. The total project cost is $2.4 million between FY17-FY19.

Lower Mills (Dorchester)
In FY18, the Lower Mills Branch will undergo an interior reconfiguration project, which will include minor electrical and technology infrastructure upgrades, as well as new carpet, paint, and some furniture, with particular attention to the borrower services area. The total project cost is $94,000.

South Boston
In FY18, the South Boston Branch will undergo a facilities project to improve landscaping and access to its exterior garden, for a total cost of $99,000.

South End
In FY18, the South End Branch will undergo an interior reconfiguration project, which will include major electrical and technology infrastructure upgrades, as well as new carpet, paint, and some furniture, for a total cost of $132,000.

West Roxbury
In FY18, the West Roxbury Branch will undergo an interior reconfiguration project, which will include minor electrical and technology infrastructure upgrades, for a total cost of $100,000.

About BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Boston Public Library has a Central Library, twenty-four branches, map center, business library, and a website filled with digital content and services. Established in 1848, the Boston Public Library has pioneered public library service in America. It was the first large free municipal library in the United States, the first public library to lend books, the first to have a branch library, and the first to have a children's room. Each year, the Boston Public Library hosts thousands of programs and serves millions of people. All of its programs and exhibitions are free and open to the public. At the Boston Public Library, books are just the beginning. To learn more, visit 
bpl.org.

MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES NEW CITIZEN PRESERVATION AWARD

MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES NEW CITIZEN PRESERVATION AWARD
Boston Landmarks Commission Kicks Off Preservation Month
BOSTON - Monday, May 1, 2017 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced a new Citizen Preservation Award in recognition of the indispensable role volunteers play in preserving Boston's cultural heritage and historic resources. The first two recipients of the award will be honored tonight at the Boston Landmarks Commission's (BLC) Preservation Month kickoff event.

"I applaud the public participation by volunteer commissioners, board members, and community advocates that is necessary to preserve Boston's historic places and resources," said Mayor Walsh. "I encourage all residents to get involved and explore Boston's incredible history."

The first recipients of the new Citizen Preservation Award are Charles Deknatel for his unwavering volunteer service and support of the City's Archaeology program and Rob Dinsmore for his update of more than 660 survey forms of Charlestown. Local historical commissions, preservation advocates and professionals, and the general public are encouraged to nominate individuals from outside the professional disciplines of Historic Preservation, Archaeology, Landscape Design or Architecture that have shown outstanding dedication to the preservation of the City of Boston's historic resources. Those interested can contact BLC staff by email at BLC@boston.gov.

The recipients will be presented with their awards tonight at the BLC's Preservation Month kickoff event at the Old State House at 6:00 p.m. The event is co-sponsored by the Bostonian Society and features a conversation with preservation planner Lynn Smiledge called 'So How About That CITGO Sign?' highlighting some of her recent experiences as the BLC's Chair.

"This year's awardees were the inspiration for what will become an annual celebration of the individual contributions that help keep Boston, Boston," said Executive Director of the BLC Rosanne Foley. "We're excited to redefine what it means to preserve and protect our City."

In addition to the awards and kickoff event, the BLC is sharing events for Boston residents and visitors to enjoy throughout the month. The events celebrate historic places, promote heritage tourism, show the social and economic benefits of historic preservation, and are either free or low-cost to the public. The BLC is also offering free posters that celebrate Boston's Landmarks and historic places to download and print.

Established in 1975 to identify and protect Boston's historic buildings, structures, areas and sites, the BLC is the City's preservation planning agency. It preserves Boston's historic buildings, places, and neighborhoods through protective designation and design review. There are over 8,000 properties located today within the city's nine local Historic Districts or designated as individual Boston Landmarks by the BLC. For more on the BLC, visit boston.gov

CAPAC Celebrates Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

CAPAC Celebrates Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today marks the start of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which commemorates the history, contributions, and achievements of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community throughout the month of May. Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) and Congressional Leaders released the following statements:

CAPAC LEADERSHIP

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:

“Every year in May, we come together to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and the invaluable contributions that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have made to our great nation. Today, AAPIs are the fastest growing racial group in the United States, and more immigrants come to the U.S. from the Asia-Pacific region than anywhere else in the world. The incredible growth and vitality of this community can be found in so many different sectors – from small business owners to medical professionals to military service members and public servants. And we have also seen this growth in our very own Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, where we now have a historic high of 18 AAPI Members of Congress!

“Together, the Asian American and Pacific Islander community has the power to make our voices heard on a wide range of issues – from keeping immigrant families together and denouncing hate violence to protecting the civil and constitutional rights of all Americans. As we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, let us recommit ourselves to advancing the needs of our communities and ensure that America continues to be land of opportunity for all.”

Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo (GU), CAPAC Vice Chair:

“I join my colleagues in Congress and all Americans as we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Asian Americans and Pacific islanders make up a large and valuable part of our country. As Guam’s representative to Congress, I am extremely proud to represent a district made up of a majority of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. I witness firsthand the valuable social and economic contributions they make to our community and our nation. We share unique cultures and rich histories that we will honor and celebrate. We must use this month as a reminder to work together and protect and strengthen our shared values as an AAPI community and as a nation.”

Congressman Ted Lieu (CA-33), CAPAC Whip:

“I’m thrilled to join my colleagues in celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Asian Americans from all walks of life have made enormous contributions to our society. From building the transcontinental railroad to serving in the armed forces, Asian Americans exemplify the countless contributions immigrants have made to our nation. Many first generation Asian Americans worked long hours to provide for their families, hoping their children could thrive. Now, many AAPIs, including myself, have shared in the American Dream due to this hard work and dedication. However, one Asian American daughter or son left behind is one too many. So, it’s vitally important that we push forward to expand educational and economic opportunity for AAPIs, for when the entire Asian American community thrives, so does America.”

U.S. SENATORS

Senator Tammy Duckworth (IL):

“As we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, our community should be proud of the contributions we’ve made to America’s economy, culture, military and infrastructure, each of which have played a vital role in this country’s growth and development. I’m also proud that the number of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders from Wall Street to Washington has reached new highs, but must all continue to work for progress for our community and to ensure the American Dream remains within reach for all.”

Senator Mazie K. Hirono (HI):

“Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is a celebration of the contributions made by the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community in Hawaii and across the country. As the fastest growing minority population in the United States, the AAPI community continues to have increasing impact on our national discourse. At a time when dangerous policies have been put forth by the Trump Administration, we must remain vigilant and fight back against unjust policies and xenophobic rhetoric. That’s why Asian Pacific Heritage Month is so important - it reminds us of the accomplishments made by AAPI leaders including Senators Daniel K. Inouye, Daniel K. Akaka, and Representative Patsy T. Mink and further encourages us to achieve progress in addressing the unique needs of the community.”

CONGRESSIONAL LEADERSHIP

Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi (CA-12), House Democratic Leader:

“Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is an opportunity to lift up the remarkable achievements, beautiful cultures and rich contributions that Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders have made to our country. This month, our nation celebrates the inspiring legacy of Americans of Asian descent who have overcome injustice and persecution to bravely defend, shape, and strengthen our great nation. A deeply-rooted, lively and growing AAPI community continues to strengthen my home town of San Francisco, and reminds us every day that the beauty is in the mix.”

Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD-5), House Democratic Whip:
“I join in celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, when Americans of all backgrounds pay tribute to the extraordinary contributions of our country’s Asian-American and Pacific Islander communities. From those who have served our nation in uniform or in government to those who have helped build our economy as entrepreneurs and innovators, from those who have expanded our knowledge of science to those who have enriched our culture through the arts, Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders have helped make our country great for generations. I’m proud to serve alongside outstanding colleagues in the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), which continues to fight for equal justice, equal opportunity, and a better future for all our people. I look forward to continue working closely with CAPAC Chair Judy Chu and the rest of the Caucus to further CAPAC’s agenda of creating more jobs, securing higher wages, protecting voting rights, keeping our communities safe, reforming our broken immigration system, and making sure that all Americans have access to the opportunities that make the American Dream achievable.”

Congressman Joe Crowley (NY-14), Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus:

“Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebrates the countless contributions Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have made to help build and strengthen New York and our entire country. From business to medicine, from academia to the arts, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have had a profound impact on every facet of American society. I’m proud to join my fellow Americans in honoring Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, and I will continue to make the realization of equal rights for Asian Americans a key part of my work in Congress.”

Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus:
“Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month pays tribute to all those in the AAPI community who have helped strengthen our country. The contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, have enriched the diverse cultural fabric throughout the United States. My community in California, is a shining example of the vibrant and growing AAPI community. I join CAPAC in celebrating the continued achievements of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community to our country.”

CAPAC EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS

Congressman Ami Bera (CA-07):

“This May, as we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, I want to thank the Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage who are serving their communities and celebrate their contributions to our nation’s culture, military and economy. As the son of immigrants, it’s an honor to see so many members of the AAPI community stepping up to serve through public service which makes our country more vibrant and diverse.”

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02): 

“As we celebrate our shared heritage and history this month, we recognize the exceptional contributions Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) have made throughout our nation’s history. Leaders like Hawaiʻi’s Senator Daniel Inouye, Senator Daniel Akaka, and Congresswoman Patsy Mink broke down barriers, made history, and worked tirelessly to better the lives of all Americans. Decorated patriots like the Nisei-only 442nd Infantry Regiment and our Filipino WWII Veterans laid their lives on the line to protect and defend the freedoms we hold dear. Today, our AAPI community continues to lead across every sector—from government, business, and military service, to culture, arts, technology, healthcare, and so much more. As we celebrate AAPI heritage month, we must honor the tireless work of those who came before us by continuing to challenge the status quo and create a better future for the next generation.”

Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa (HI-01): 

“Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 2017 is a particularly fitting year to look around and admire the beauty of the ethnic, racial and cultural diversity of our great nation of immigrants.  A land of opportunity,  a place to escape war, persecution and/or religious oppression,  America is richer, fuller and stronger as a result of the cultures and traditions of our diverse immigrants.  Asians and Pacific Islanders celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of our people and community in May of each year and I am proud of the remarkable role AAPIs have played in America.”

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07): 

“As a South Asian immigrant, I am honored to recognize the accomplishments and the sacrifices of our AAPI communities. This past year, we have seen an unprecedented level of political engagement among AAPIs. Our community continues to enrich our nation’s cultural heritage and make important contributions to all areas of society. Yet, our broken immigration system, hate crimes and violations of American civil liberties continue to haunt our community, especially under President Trump. We must work hard to resist this 'otherizing' and ensure that our communities are safe spaces free from violence and discrimination because of race, religion, or country of origin.”

Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17):

“I am incredibly proud to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. It is the diversity of our country that strengthens and drives us. We live in a nation of immigrants, and it is important that we take time to reflect on those that have come before us. Every day I am thankful for the leaders from the AAPI community that have broken barriers in business, the arts, and public service. Their vision, courage, and passion will continue to inspire future generations of Asian Americans, as they have inspired me.  It has been a honor to follow the Honorable Mike Honda as the only mainland United States Representative of a majority Asian-American district. He is a living reminder of what happens when, as a country, we become blinded by fear, and I pledge to continue his fight for the rights of all individuals, and to maintain America’s status as a nation of openness and opportunity.”

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08):

“Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is a time to recognize the contributions our communities have made along with the obstacles we’ve overcome. In business, science, the arts, athletics, public service, and every other area of American life, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have helped to build a stronger, more inclusive America. The 16 million people of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community advance the legacy of those who came before us each day as we pave the way for others to follow.”

Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13):

“This May, I am proud to join the East Bay and people across the country in celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. This month is an important time for our nation to reflect on the remarkable contributions of the AAPI community. Every day, I see the critical role that the AAPI community plays in building and enriching our East Bay culture and values. As a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus and co-chair of the CAPAC Health Care Task Force, I will keep fighting in Congress for policies that uplift and empower the AAPI community.”

Congresswoman Doris O. Matsui (CA-06):

“America is built on those who have come from many different countries and cultures. This May, we celebrate the many contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to our country. It’s important that we continue to embrace diversity and work together to make America a better place.”

Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06):

“Each May, we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and the contributions Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) have made, and continue to make, to our country. I’m honored to help shatter the record for AAPI representation in Congress by being one of the now 18 AAPI Members of Congress. I’m also proud to represent a vibrant AAPI community in Queens.

“AAPIs have made gains in every facet of American society. We built the Transcontinental Railroad, which connected the coasts and allowed our economy to develop exponentially. We participate in politics, open small businesses, fight in our nation’s wars, and research cures for diseases.  Even though AAPIs are now the fastest growing group in the United States, we are still underrepresented in many executive roles, and vital statistics about our community are often not reported. I will continue my efforts to fight for AAPI inclusion in all parts of American life and to have our contributions to American society recognized nationally.”

Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy (FL-07):

“I’m honored to join my colleagues in Congress to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and the extraordinary contributions made by AAPI communities across the country. From building vibrant business communities, to supporting comprehensive immigration reform, to speaking out when other minority communities are attacked, AAPIs continue to represent an important voice in moving our country forward. As the first Vietnamese American woman elected to Congress, I am proud to stand on the shoulders of those who helped pave the way for me and others in the AAPI community to serve our country.”

Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03):

“I am proud to join my fellow CAPAC colleagues in celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to honoring the contributions Asian Pacific Americans have made to the fabric of our country. In the 3rd Congressional District of Virginia, AAPI Virginians provide valuable contributions to our community. As the AAPI community continues to grow,  I encourage all Americans to educate themselves on the rich heritage of Asian Pacific Americans and to take a moment to honor all of the tremendous contributions this community has made to our great nation.”

Congressman Mark Takano (CA-41):

“Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the proud history and the continuing contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the strength and success of our country. This year – the 75th anniversary of Executive Order 9066, which established Japanese American internment camps during World War II – gives this month additional meaning. The progress we’ve made since that dark chapter, as a community and as a country, serves as a monument to America’s capacity to shed its biases and remake itself for the better. I join my colleagues in honoring this occasion by remembering the barriers we’ve overcome and the accomplishments that surely lie ahead.”

CAPAC ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Congressman Alan Lowenthal (CA-47):

“This month, we celebrate the innumerable contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to communities in every corner of our country.  I am proud to represent the many culturally diverse communities in California’s 47th Congressional District—from Cambodia Town and the Filipino and Pacific Islander communities in Long Beach to the Korean Business District and Little Saigon in Westminster and Garden Grove—where I see firsthand how Asian Pacific Americans continue to add to the rich tapestry of our nation. As we mark the 38th anniversary of the end of the Cambodian Genocide and the 42nd anniversary of the Fall of Saigon, let us take this opportunity to remember and honor the courage and bravery with which millions of Asian Pacific Americans made the journey to the U.S. not only to build a better life for themselves and their children, but to help build a better nation for us all.”

Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-09):

“During the month of May, we celebrate and reflect on the many contributions Asian Pacific Americans have made to help strengthen this great nation. The Asian American and Pacific Islander community is the fastest-growing in the United States, and I am proud that many call California and my district home. This Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, I invite you to join me in horning Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and their invaluable contributions throughout American history.”

Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (CA-32):

Southern California is a great melting pot of ethnicities and cultures, and as a Congressional Representative of the San Gabriel Valley, I am proud that our region is a reflection of this diversity. Our 32nd District is home to a growing AAPI population, comprising leaders, entrepreneurs, students, business owners, and residents who drive our economy, enrich our communities, and contribute to making the world a better place. Please join us in celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month as we highlight the role that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders continue to play in strengthening the fabric of our nation.

Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40):

“Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich diversity of our AAPI community and their invaluable contributions to our nation.  Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders enrich every aspect of American life, distinguishing themselves in the workplace, the home, and the classroom.  They are small business owners, military service members, doctors, lawyers, homemakers, teachers, students, artists, and public servants.  I am proud to recognize AAPIs as they continue to strengthen our culture, our economy, our communities, and our country.”

Congressman Adam Schiff (CA-28):

“Each May, we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, recognizing the extraordinary influence that generations of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have made on American history and every aspect of our society. I am honored to join my constituents in celebrating Los Angeles County’s diverse AAPI community and paying tribute to the countless contributions that members of the AAPI community have made to enrich our economy, the sciences, business, medicine, culture, and the arts.”

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09):

“Asian Americans and Pacific islanders (AAPIs) strengthen the fabric of our American story. During the month of May, it is important that we recognize the remarkable contributions the AAPI community has made to our nation. Millions of AAPI individuals have defended our nation at home and abroad, contributed to our economy, becoming doctors, engineers, teachers, and great neighbors in our communities. I have the honor of representing diverse AAPI community organizations in my district including the Japanese American Citizens League and the Asian Counseling and Referral Services, and museums such as the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience. During Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, I am proud to join all Americans in recognizing the AAPI community’s achievements and contributions to our country.”

Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07):

“This month provides an important opportunity to celebrate the countless ways Asian Americans have helped strengthen our city of New York.  Spanning from Chinatown in Manhattan to Sunset Park in Brooklyn, to the rapidly growing number of other areas throughout all five boroughs, the presence of our Asian community members enriches the fabric of the city.

“As the Asian population has grown in size, so have contributions in entrepreneurship and culture, including food, music, and the arts. Undeniably, Asian residents make up an integral part of our city’s identity.

“As we take the month of May to celebrate the Asian community, we can expect Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to continue contributing to our country’s achievements. This month, we should all take time to honor their commitment and sacrifices to our nation.”

BACKGROUND

May is officially designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month by section 102 of title 36, United States Code. The observance originally began as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, which was established through a joint Congressional resolution in 1978. The month of May was chosen due to two important milestones in Asian/Pacific American history: May 7, 1843, when the first Japanese immigrants arrived in the United States, and May 10, 1869, when the first transcontinental railroad was completed with substantial contributions from Chinese immigrant workers.

May Day action in Boston

BOSTON and CHELSEA – A diverse coalition of labor, social justice and community organizations will mobilize on Monday for May Day, International Workers’ Day, to advocate for immigrants and all workers’ rights and protest the Trump administration’s divisive and destructive policies against immigrants.
The rallies and marches are part of “A Day Without Immigrants” (“Un Día Sin Inmigrantes”), a nationwide day of action that brings together immigrants and their supporters to speak out against unjust policies and demand change.
Massachusetts is home to more than 1 million foreign-born people, more than half of whom are naturalized U.S. citizens. An estimated 180,000 undocumented immigrants live in the Greater Boston metropolitan area, often in mixed-status families, and often with U.S. citizen children.
One in five workers in Massachusetts is foreign-born, and immigrant households pay about $9.5 billion in taxes each year. Threats of deportation are often used to exploit immigrant workers, highlighting the close ties between immigrant rights and labor rights.
This year’s actions culminate in Chelsea to celebrate the city’s 10-year policy, adopted by the City Council, to respect all people irrespective of their race, ethnicity or immigration status. The policy also establishes that all Chelsea residents have the right to work without fear, receive fair wages, and access secure working conditions.
The May 1st Coalition brings together labor, immigrant rights and social justice groups across Chelsea, Everett and Boston. It includes the Chelsea Collaborative, La Comunidad, the Boston May Day Coalition, the Chinese Progressive Association, UFCW Local 1445, Fight for $15, American Friends Service Committee, MassCOSH, 32BJ SEIU, SEIU 509, LUMA, Answer Coalition, Jobs With Justice, Carpenters Union, and the Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA).