Dear John,

May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the United States. 

This is a time to celebrate the accomplishments of the AANHPI community, as well as honor our heritage and history. From helping build the first transcontinental railroad to the small businesses and entrepreneurs boosting our economy, our history is American history. 

As the first Chinese-American woman elected to Congress, Chair Emerita of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), and one of the six million AANHPIs who call California home, I will always use my voice to stand up for the rights and needs of our communities. Can you chip in so I can continue to uplift AANHPI communities in Congress?

While AANHPI individuals and organizations face xenophobia and attacks from the Trump Administration, I’m working in Congress to not only stop the hate, but also to advocate for legislation that will serve and protect our communities. It’s why I've fought to pass my Southeast Asian Deportation Relief Act, which would prevent the deportations of Southeast Asian American refugees and allow those who have already been deported to return back to their homes and families here in the United States. On Friday, I also introduced bills focused on mental health awareness for AANHPI communities and to recognize May 10th as National AANHPI Mental Health Day. 

Whether it’s been protesting against the deportations of Southeast Asians, pushing back against hateful and racist policies like the China Initiative or alien land laws, or advocating for mental health awareness for AANHPIs, my CAPAC colleagues and I are fighting every day for AANHPI communities. 

With over 23 million people representing more than 70 ethnicities and hundreds of languages, the AANHPI community is a true representation of the diversity and resilience that defines America — a community that I’m proud to be a part of. Will you help me to continue to uplift the AANHPI community this month and every month?

Thank you,

Judy