Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month: Honoring Our Legacy, Building Our Future

This May, we proudly join Governor Gavin Newsom in recognizing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month—a time to reflect on the strength, resilience, and contributions of AAPI communities that have helped shape California’s identity, culture, and economy.

California is home to more than 6 million Californians of Asian or Pacific Islander descent, and each individual is an integral part of our state’s vibrant social fabric. From bustling cultural neighborhoods like Little Saigon and Japantown, to the thousands of AAPI-owned small businesses driving innovation and economic growth, our communities represent the heartbeat of a thriving, diverse California.

Yet, this month also reminds us of the longstanding struggles AAPI communities have endured. These aren’t just chapters in history books—they are lived experiences that continue to reverberate today. The Sacramento Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, and CalAsian Foundation stands with our communities in rejecting hate, uplifting our shared stories, and advocating for our community at all levels.

Governor Newsom’s proclamation acknowledges this complex legacy—one marked by both hardship and hope. It also highlights the power of AAPI leadership, from fighting for labor rights to creating change in education, arts, healthcare, and business. California’s transformation into a global innovation and cultural leader is directly tied to the sacrifices and contributions of AAPI individuals and families.

As two chambers and a foundation dedicated to empowering underserved small businesses and advocating for economic opportunity, we are especially moved by the proclamation’s recognition of our community’s resilience and drive. Despite historic barriers, AAPI small business owners continue to lead with creativity and determination. Our Chamber is proud to support them—not just during AAPI Heritage Month, but year-round—through programs, partnerships, and advocacy that help level the playing field.

“We proudly stand with Governor Gavin Newsom in recognizing May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and each year we host our Annual AAPI Night Market in Sacramento where we bring out several AAPI-owned businesses and music artists to celebrate our community and rich heritage,” said Pat Fong Kushida, President & CEO. “We remain deeply committed to uplifting our AAPI small business owners and community leaders who are helping drive California forward—this month and every month.”

Let this month serve as a celebration of all that our communities have overcome and achieved, and a recommitment to building a future where every AAPI in California can thrive. This May and beyond, we honor the past, empower the present, and invest in the future.