The City of San Francisco kicked off its nineteenth annual Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month celebration with a vibrant event that highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of the community. Co-chairs Grace Horikiri and Al Perez welcomed attendees, acknowledging the contributions of volunteers and sponsors who made the event possible. The celebration featured performances from local artists, including the Halau Kayulu dance troupe and 21-year-old singer Zeonce Brown, who captivated the audience with her unique blend of Filipino and Black heritage.

This year’s theme, "Strengthening the Fabric of Our Community," reflects a commitment to unity and inclusivity among the diverse ethnic groups within the AAPI community. Claudine Chang, president of the APA Heritage Foundation, emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing ongoing challenges such as anti-Asian hate and the need for equity. She noted that the celebration serves not only to honor AAPI culture but also to foster connections across different communities.

San Francisco Mayor London Breed addressed the crowd, recalling her own experiences celebrating diversity in schools and reaffirming the city’s dedication to supporting all communities. She highlighted the importance of events like AAPI Heritage Month in showcasing the city’s multicultural identity, especially in light of recent challenges faced by the Asian community.

The mayor also announced that San Francisco will host the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit later this year, providing an opportunity to further elevate the city’s global standing and celebrate its diverse heritage on an international stage.

As the evening progressed, the city’s commitment to recognizing and uplifting AAPI voices was evident, with various organizations being honored for their contributions to the community. The celebration not only marked a significant cultural event but also reinforced the ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents of San Francisco.