Keystone Today

Gov. Tom Wolf and First Lady Frances Wolf recently joined the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs in celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, as well as honoring the first-ever Advancing Pennsylvania Award winners.

The Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs was created to ensure that the government is accessible and accountable to the Asian Pacific communities across the state, according to a release by Wolf.

“I am proud to join with the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs to celebrate the rich traditions of our commonwealth’s Asian Pacific American communities,” said Wolf. “In Pennsylvania, we know that our diversity is our strength, and we honor the many contributions and achievements of Asian Pacific American Pennsylvanians.”

There were three organizations and one individual recognized at a ceremony on May 25 where they were given the Advancing Pennsylvania Award for their contributions across the state. 

The Bhutanese Community Association of Pittsburgh received an award for “Unwavering Dedication, Commitment and Service to the Community.”

Christina Lu, a high school student in Philadelphia, was given an award for “Courage to Stand and Defend the Rights of Others.”

The Muslims of Central PA were awarded for “Extraordinary Resilience, Commitment and Dedication to the Community.”

The International Spring Festival Organization was given the award for “Unwavering Commitment, Dedication, and Contributions to Diversity and Inclusiveness.

“Pennsylvania is home to more than 600,000 residents of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. It is imperative that all of us take the time to acknowledge the strong cultural history and the accomplishments of our Asian Pacific American friends across the state,” said First Lady Wolf. “Tom and I are truly honored to join the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs in recognizing the leaders of their communities and in celebrating their rich heritage.”