AANHPI Heritage Month Celebration Honors Queens’ Diversity at Woodside School
The vibrant tapestry of Queens’ multicultural identity was on full display as P.S. 12 in Woodside hosted the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month celebration, organized by the Queens Post and Assembly Member Steven Raga. This annual event, now in its third iteration, brings together community members, elected officials, and advocates to honor the significant contributions of the AANHPI communities to the borough.
Celebrating Diversity and Community Impact
Held on May 31, the celebration highlighted the remarkable diversity in neighborhoods such as Woodside, Jackson Heights, and Elmhurst, often affectionately referred to as “Little Thailand,” “Little Manila,” and various other enclaves. Assembly Member Raga, the first Filipino American elected to the New York State Legislature, passionately spoke about the rich cultural heritage and unity within these communities. “It’s always incredible to see the strength and vibrancy of our communities here,” Raga stated, emphasizing the cohesive spirit that defines Queens.
The event, co-hosted by several local and citywide organizations, recognized over a dozen individuals, businesses, and nonprofits for their exceptional community service. This collaboration included contributions from the Asian American Federation, Asian Americans for Equality, and the Korean American Family Service Center, among others, showcasing a united effort to promote cultural pride and mutual understanding.
Leaders Advocate for Education and Inclusion
State Senator John Liu, a noted advocate for Asian American communities, commended Steven Raga’s leadership and underscored the importance of education in combatting ignorance and hate. “Having Steven in Albany is vital, especially as we push for legislation like requiring Asian American history in public schools,” Liu remarked, pointing to the necessity of educational reform in fostering a more inclusive society.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and City Council Member Shekar Krishnan, who were also present, echoed these sentiments. Williams highlighted the need for communal spaces that allow cultural expressions, while Krishnan, of South Asian descent and representing Jackson Heights and Elmhurst, reiterated the impact of multicultural initiatives.
A Month of Heritage and Celebrations
The Woodside event was the culmination of a month-long series of AANHPI Heritage Month celebrations across Queens. These gatherings have successfully spotlighted both the diversity and the invaluable contributions of AANHPI communities. With Queens being home to more than 2.4 million residents, such celebrations manifest the borough’s commitment to embracing cultural differences.
This spirit of celebration resonated beyond AANHPI Month, aligning with various community events throughout Queens. From a scavenger hunt to guitar classes and Pride Month bingo, residents continuously engaged in cultural enrichment and recreational activities, underscoring the community’s dynamic life.
A Community Committed to Change
The celebration at P.S. 12 reflects a broader commitment within Queens to use cultural events as platforms for social change. The discussions and collaborations fostered at these events are essential in addressing broader issues such as educational reform and community development. Assembly Member Raga’s recent participation in the second annual AAPI Legislative Summit in Albany further signifies a push for legislative advancements addressing health care, labor, and education—a testament to the ongoing dialogue spurred by community gatherings.
For local residents, this initiative symbolizes the promise of tangible change, blending cultural pride with advocacy for social justice. The potential implementation of policies fostering education about AANHPI histories across schools could mark significant progress in promoting inclusion and understanding statewide.
Looking Ahead
As the community continues to celebrate its diverse heritage, these gatherings also pave the way for future cultural festivities and discussions. The ongoing support from organizations and elected officials highlights a shared commitment to making Queens a beacon of diversity and unity.
For more information on participating in similar community events or learning about AANHPI-related initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit the Queens Post website or contact local representatives. These resources offer insight into upcoming events and provide a platform for community engagement and advocacy.
In embracing its unique cultural identity, Queens not only celebrates its past but also looks towards a future marked by unity and progress. Through events like the AANHPI Heritage Month celebration, the community demonstrates that its strength lies in its diversity—bringing together residents from varied backgrounds to forge a collective future harmonious with its rich past.
