Seattle Council declares 2025 as Wing Luke Year to honor immigrant contributions

Under the warm glow of Seattle's city hall, a moment of reflection and celebration unfolded as Council Member Solomon took the floor to proclaim 2025 as Wing Luke Year. This significant declaration honors the legacy of Wing Luke, the first Asian American elected to the Seattle City Council, whose contributions continue to resonate deeply within the community.

Council Member Solomon began by highlighting the proclamation's roots in Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month, initially intended to celebrate the achievements of the 11 Asian American council members who have served since 1962. He emphasized Wing Luke's groundbreaking role in breaking barriers of exclusion, paving the way for future leaders. Solomon poignantly connected Luke's story to contemporary issues, reminding attendees of the ongoing struggles against nativism and xenophobia that threaten the fabric of the community.

As he recounted Wing Luke's early life, Solomon shared the challenges faced by Luke's family, particularly the deportation of his grandfather due to the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. This historical context served as a powerful reminder of the resilience required to overcome adversity. Solomon urged the council and the community to remain vigilant against the forces that seek to marginalize immigrants today, drawing parallels to recent announcements regarding visa revocations for Chinese students.

The proclamation not only honors Wing Luke's legacy but also serves as a call to action for Seattleites to recognize the value of diversity and the contributions of immigrants. As the meeting progressed, the floor was opened for comments from fellow council members, who echoed Solomon's sentiments and expressed their gratitude for the rich cultural tapestry that defines Seattle.

In a fitting conclusion, the interim director of the Wing Luke Museum, Kamahana Hokulani, was introduced to accept the proclamation, symbolizing a collective commitment to preserving and celebrating the history and contributions of Asian Americans in Seattle. As the city embarks on this year-long tribute, the spirit of Wing Luke serves as a guiding light, reminding all of the importance of inclusion and the dangers of forgetting the lessons of the past.