Crossposted from Metro Matters

In celebration of American Asian, Native Hawaiian, Pasifika (AANHP)* Heritage Month, please join me in recognizing the cultures, histories, creativity and lasting contributions of AANHP communities who help shape the fabric of King County and our region. 

This month is both a celebration and an opportunity for reflection. As we honor the richness and resilience of AANHP heritage, we also recognize the ongoing impact of exclusion, discrimination and systemic racism—from the Chinese Exclusion Act to the scapegoating of Asian communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, to tragedies like the 2023 Monterey Park shooting and the recent attack at Vancouver’s Lapu-Lapu Festival. These painful events remind us that the work of creating a more inclusive, respectful and safe environment—within Metro and throughout the communities we serve—must continue. 

In 2024, Metro launched the AANHP Visibility Project, recognizing that art can help us survive, heal, and connect in times of tragedy. The project featured employee-created artworks displayed as a bus wrap, a traveling worksite installation and murals on downtown Seattle bus shelters. As part of this effort, Metro also produced a 10-minute, Emmy-nominated video that brings to life the powerful stories and spirit behind the artwork. This project celebrates the history, strength and contributions of AANHP communities and serves as a visible affirmation of our ongoing commitment to equity, inclusion and belonging. To learn more about the project, visit kingcounty.gov/metro/aanhp. Read more.