Orange County Celebrates 2018 Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
Orange County Government, in partnership with the Orange County Asian Committee (OCAC), hosted its annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration on May 8, 2018 on the lawn of the Orange County Administration Center. The event, now in its sixth year, brings together the community to celebrate the cultural heritage of the Asian-Pacific region and recognizes the contributions of the County’s diverse array of Asian residents, businesses and community leaders.
Throughout the morning, organizers served a traditional spread of savory food and sweets from different Asian countries. Guests enjoyed cultural performances including live song and dance, acrobatics, tai chi and calligraphy demonstrations. Additionally, the event showcased a children’s art exhibit located inside the Administration Center lobby. The art will be displayed throughout the month of May.
Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs, along with the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) and other elected officials greeted guests at the event. Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Kuan-Chou Chien was also in attendance.
“This event celebrates a very special heritage, and allows Central Floridians to learn about Asian Pacific history and tradition and to further explore the rich diversity and culture that serves as the fabric of our community,” Mayor Jacobs said. “Our diversity, inclusivity and culture of collaboration are what make our community so special.”
After the event, Mayor Jacobs and the BCC presented a proclamation to OCAC recognizing the contributions of Asian Americans and named May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in Orange County.
“Today’s celebration represents our hard work and dedication to promote and preserve Asian cultures. This year’s theme is Unite Our Vison by Working Together, and focuses on unity and inclusion,” said Dr. Hefang Lin, president of OCAC and statistician for Orange County Corrections. “This occasion is for all of us. I would like to thank all the volunteers and guests who supported and participated in the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration throughout the past six years. We could not have done it without them.”
OCAC is an employee-based volunteer organization formed in 2012. OCAC’s goal is to promote and preserve the heritage and culture of Asian Americans, while forming partnerships throughout the community and building relationships with local and international governments.
Photo Caption: Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs and the Board of County Commissioners joined the Orange County Asian Committee to host its annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration on May 8 on the lawn of the Orange County Administration Center.
