MADISON, WI – Today, Wisconsin State Representatives Francesca Hong, Renuka Mayadev, and Angelito Tenorio gathered at the State Capitol to recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in an observance that was both a celebration and call to action.
The legislators, who made history by forming Wisconsin’s first Legislative Asian Caucus, uplifted the voices and priorities of AAPI communities across the state in light of recent attacks by the Trump Administration on immigrant communities.
Rep. Francesca Hong: “During AAPI Heritage Month, we celebrate the generations of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders whose labor, advocacy, and resilience have shaped Wisconsin and this country for the better. The Legislative Asian Caucus was founded to ensure our communities are seen; and we will continue fighting for a Wisconsin where every person can live with dignity, safety, and belonging.”
Rep. Angelito Tenorio: “Asian Americans have significantly contributed to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of our state. Yet, we are stuck navigating a landscape that too often undermines our dignity and our safety. This is the reality for immigrant communities across our nation, and it is not something we can ignore. Celebration without solidarity and action is meaningless.”
Rep. Renuka Mayadev: “As proud children of immigrants, we stand together to uplift the voices of the AAPI community and share their significant contributions to our great state. As hate incidents against AAPI communities are on the rise, we refuse to stand by and watch dangerous rhetoric target Asian American immigrants and families. We have a responsibility to not only reject hatred, but to unequivocally condemn these actions and defend America’s rich history as a nation of immigrants.”
