WASHINGTON STATE COMMEMORATES FIRST CHINESE-AMERICAN/ AMERICANS OF CHINESE DESCENT HISTORY MONTH
In a historic move, January 2024 marks the inaugural celebration of Chinese American/Americans of Chinese Descent History Month in Washington State. This significant recognition was established by legislation signed into law by Governor Jay Inslee in May 2023, making Washington the first state in the nation to honor Chinese Americans in this unique and meaningful way.
Lawmakers chose the month of January for the new acknowledgment due to its proximity to Lunar New Year, celebrated in locations throughout the world. The first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year typically falls within the month of January or early February on the Gregorian calendar, making it a fitting month to pay tribute to the rich heritage and contributions of Chinese Americans.
Under RCW 43.117.130:
(1) With the rise of economic opportunity in America and other parts of the world in the 19th century, the Chinese diaspora is now one of the largest in the world. As a result, many of those who are, or whose ancestors were, part of the Chinese diaspora have varied perspectives, experiences, and approaches in how they preserve their identity as Chinese Americans and Americans of Chinese descent.
(2) January of each year will be designated as a time for people of this state to commemorate the contributions of Chinese Americans and Americans of Chinese descent to the history and heritage of Washington state and shall be designated as Chinese American/Americans of Chinese descent history month.
(3) Public schools are encouraged to designate time in January for appropriate activities in commemoration of the lives, history, achievements, and contributions of Chinese Americans and Americans of Chinese descent.
WASHINGTONIANS OF CHINESE DESCENT
The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is pleased to announce the creation of promotional materials to recognize and commemorate RCW 43.117.130, which names January of each year as Chinese American/Americans of Chinese Descent History Month.
The promotional posters highlight the lives of five influential Washingtonians of Chinese Descent, including Chun Chin Hock, Governor Gary Locke, Denise Louie, Wong Tsu, and Amy Yee. You can view the posters here: Washingtonians of Chinese Descent Washington-Americans of Chinese Descent Posters
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
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