IL SR0343

Declares May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Illinois

Recognizes over 870,000 Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders living in Illinois, with the largest communities being Indian, Filipino, Chinese, Korean, and Pakistani Americans

Commemorates May for two historical events: the first arrival of Japanese immigrants on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad on May 10, 1869, built largely by Chinese immigrant workers

Acknowledges Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders as the fastest growing racial or ethnic group in the country, representing more than 50 distinct ethnic groups and over 100 languages

Notes the history of discrimination, exclusion, and violence faced by AAPI communities while honoring their contributions to Illinois and U.S. development