May is recognized as Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and acknowledge the rich history and diverse cultures of these communities. During this observance, there are many ways to honor and elevate AANHPI voices. Throughout the month, the National League of Cities is showcasing remarkable elected officials from NLC’s Asian Pacific American Municipal Officials Constituency Group, who are dedicated to leading and serving at the local level.
Through a series of questions, these dedicated leaders have shared their reflections on the significance of this month, their initiatives to amplify AANHPI voices and the ongoing celebrations taking place within their communities. In addition to highlighting AANHPI heritage, May also marks Mental Health Awareness Month. In this spirit, these members have discussed how their communities are actively promoting well-being and providing support for AANHPI residents.
Read on to get inspired and discover how these city leaders are taking action.
1. What projects or partnerships in your city, town or village have been effective in amplifying AANHPI voices?
“Collaborating with the Korean Association to organize an exciting soccer tournament in Seattle, aimed at fostering connections within our AAPI communities through the love of the game! We’re also teaming up with Seattle Reign and, with any luck, the Sounders as well!”
Councilmember Jason Moon of Mukilteo, WA and Vice President of APAMO
“San Leandro is a proudly diverse city, with 38% of our residents identifying as AANHPI. We are committed to equitable access and inclusive civic engagement, offering translation services and multilingual communications to ensure all voices are heard. We work closely with AANHPI-serving nonprofits and community leaders to shape culturally responsive policies, programs, and outreach. These partnerships help amplify AANHPI voices in decision-making spaces and community planning processes.”
Vice Mayor Xouhoa Bowen of San Leandro, CA and Treasurer of APAMO
“Carlsbad partners with local organizations and hosts events like our Multicultural Festival through our school district to highlight and celebrate AANHPI voices and stories.”
Mayor Pro Tem Priya Bhat-Patel of Carlsbad, CA and At-Large Board Member of APAMO
2. What does AANHPI Heritage Month mean to your community, and how are you creating space for celebration and reflection?
“My city and county are home to a vibrant AAPI community, but we currently lack a unified voice. I hope that AANHPI Heritage Month will inspire recognition and appreciation within the community, supported by our DEI commission, which has been actively championing minority-owned businesses!”
Councilmember Moon
“AANHPI Heritage Month holds deep meaning for our city — and for me personally. As the first Asian American woman elected to the San Leandro City Council, I stand on the shoulders of trailblazing AANHPI leaders who broke barriers and made space for others to lead. This month is a time for celebration, remembrance and reflection. It’s an opportunity to honor the resilience, contributions and cultural richness of AANHPI communities while continuing to build a future rooted in equity, belonging and shared power.”
Vice Mayor Bown
“AANHPI Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor the diversity within our community. We celebrate through events, educational displays and public storytelling that create space for reflection and recognition. We also honor the month with a proclamation.”
Mayor Pro Tem Bhat-Patel
3. This May, as we recognize both AANHPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, how is your community working to promote well-being and support for AANHPI residents?
“Snohomish County is making significant progress with its therapeutic court program, which has already delivered promising outcomes in neighboring cities. This initiative focuses on addressing mental health and substance abuse challenges, offering individuals a fresh start and a path to recovery.”
Councilmember Moon
“San Leandro is committed to advancing mental health awareness and culturally competent support for all residents, including our AANHPI communities. We collaborate with local organizations to promote mental health education in multiple languages and reduce stigma, especially in underserved communities. We also support initiatives focused on community healing, youth engagement and culturally competent practices, ensuring mental wellness is approached with compassion and understanding.”
Vice Mayor Bowen
“Carlsbad works with community organizations to offer culturally responsive mental health resources.”
Mayor Pro Tem Bhat-Patel
4. How is your community celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month and recognizing the contributions of AANHPI residents?
“We will be presenting our proclamation at the first Council meeting in May. Additionally, I’m collaborating with our local libraries to read a Korean book to children during the month of May!”
Councilmember Moon
“Each May, the San Leandro City Council proudly proclaims AANHPI Heritage Month and supports a range of community events and cultural programming. This year’s celebrations include Mandarin story time at the library, Filipino Banig weaving art activities, Chinese calligraphy classes, food and craft fairs and more. These events not only honor our residents’ diverse heritage but also foster cross-cultural appreciation and intergenerational learning.”
Vice Mayor Bowen
“We recognize AANHPI contributions through citywide events, educational programs at our libraries and spotlights on community leaders making a difference.”
Mayor Pro Tem Bhat-Patel
Explore APAMO
While May is the dedicated time to commemorate AANHPI, the impact of these leaders and others deserves to be recognized all year long. Learn more about the Asian Pacific American Municipal Officials Constituency Group and how to get involved. Membership is complimentary to local elected officials from NLC member cities, and non-members pay a $75 supporting member fee per year.
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