As we wrap up Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, I wanted to reach out to talk about what it means to me to be an elected official as an Asian-American leader.

Washington has one of the largest AAPI populations in the U.S., and I’m proud that our Democratic Caucus in the State Senate reflects that.

Senators Mona Das, Manka Dhingra, Bob Hasegawa, Yasmin Trudeau, and I proudly represent the diversity within the AAPI community. Together with our other Democratic colleagues, we’re fighting for a better Washington for everyone.

Now more than ever, with anti-Asian hate crimes at their highest level in recent memory – including two mass shootings in the past week motivated by anti-Asian sentiment – we need our elected representatives to truly reflect the communities they serve, and to fight for their values.

That’s why today, as we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and recognize the accomplishments and contributions of the AAPI community, I’m asking you to commit to standing against anti-Asian hate in all its forms.

We know there is so much more work to be done to ensure justice and equality for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. We must honor AAPI history and heritage with action.

Thank you,

Sen. Joe Nguyen