2026 House Resolution 315

Whereas, The state of Michigan is home to more than 330,000 residents of Asian and Pacific Island descent; and

Whereas, Asian Pacific Americans comprise one of the fastest-growing populations in both the state and the nation and represent one of the fastest-growing populations in Michigan according to the most recent U.S. Census data; and

Whereas, The Asian and Pacific Island regions are extraordinarily diverse, encompassing more than thirty countries, numerous languages, and a wide range of cultural traditions and belief systems; and

Whereas, Citizens of Asian and Pacific Island descent have contributed significantly to the history and development of the United States—from the laborers who helped connect the nation’s coasts more than a century ago, to the patriots who served overseas while their families faced internment at home, to the entrepreneurs, engineers, and health care professionals who strengthen our economy and safeguard public health today; and

Whereas, Asian Pacific Americans enrich our culture, quality of life, and economic vitality through leadership, a commitment to education and advancement, and dedicated service to their communities; and

Whereas, The state of Michigan and the United States have been strengthened by the contributions of Asian Pacific Americans across all fields, including the arts, sciences, business, education, and philanthropy; and

Whereas, Michigan has formally recognized these contributions through the establishment of the Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission; and

Whereas, The influence and contributions of Asian Pacific American residents will continue to grow as more individuals choose to make Michigan their home and as Michigan’s economy becomes increasingly connected to the global economy, particularly throughout Asia; and

Whereas, Asian Pacific Americans continue to advance justice and equality by breaking down barriers of discrimination, indifference, and intolerance, thereby opening doors for future generations; and

Whereas, Asian Pacific American residents in Michigan are supported by numerous organizations, including the Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce, Council of Asian Pacific Americans, Asian Center of Southeast Michigan and West Michigan, West Michigan Asian Pacific American Association, Michigan Asian Pacific American Bar Association, South Asian Bar Association of Michigan, South Asian American Voices for Impact, MI-India Foundation, India League of America–Michigan, Asian Indian Women’s Association of Michigan, and many others; and

Whereas, The state of Michigan takes pride in its cultural diversity and welcomes the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the lasting and growing contributions of its Asian Pacific American residents; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 2026 as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in the state of Michigan; and be it further

Resolved, That all citizens are encouraged to celebrate the individual and collective contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to this state and to the nation.