At AAPI event, Governor Youngkin says ‘there is no room for hate’ in Virginia

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Richmond, Virginia: The Republican Governor of Virginia, Glenn Youngkin, highlighted the significant contributions by Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) to the Commonwealth’s “ethnic and social fabric” while asserting “there is no room for hate” in Virginia. He was addressing a gathering of around 200 guests at the Executive Mansion to celebrate the AAPI Heritage Month on May 23, 2024.

At the event, Youngkin, who was accompanied by First Lady Suzanne Youngkin, announced that “ethnicity” has been added as a “protected class” starting in 2024.

“One very important step we took this past year was to again reiterate that in the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is no room for hate, and hate presents itself in so many terrible ways,” noted Youngkin. “And yet one of the great accomplishments, I believe this year, was that we were able to incorporate into Virginia’s hate crime legislation, a very important change. We were able to add ethnicity as a protected class.”

He appreciated the growing diversity of the state. “Our celebration this month reflects our deep appreciation of a vast array of communities. A vast array of communities that have impacted the Commonwealth in such an important way.” He said Virginia is thriving due to the contributions from diverse cultures and individuals from around the world.

Virginia Asian Advisory Board (VAAB) reflects the voices of “Virginians who are looking for [a] voice” Youngkin said pointing out that the board members are hardworking, and they meet several times a year for listening sessions. Based on their recommendations, he said, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Kelly Gee, presents a report to members of the Virginia Cabinet and to him aiding them in shaping policies and making decisions.

During the celebration, Youngkin also presented a proclamation to VAAB Chair and members recognizing May 2024, as the AAPI Heritage Month in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The proclamation highlighted the more than 700,000 Virginians who are part of the AAPI community and contribute significantly to Virginia’s diverse cultural tapestry. Their languages, cultures and beliefs have enriched the state, and AAPI individuals have made invaluable contributions to various sectors like government, business, arts, science, medicine, law enforcement, and military across the Commonwealth.

While speaking about Virginia’s growing economy, Youngkin emphasized that he is “pleased” with the progress on the economic front in Virginia for the past two years. Job reports showed that since he took over as the Governor in January 2022, over 200,000 Virginians are added to the workforce, the Governor said.

“The American dream is not limited to certain people. That is the special fabric of this nation, is that it is open to everyone and therefore opportunity and prosperity are for everyone. And when I see jobs after jobs after jobs made available to people in the Commonwealth of Virginia, it just reminds us that together we can move mountains.”

Youngkin thanked attendees, saying, “This gathering has grown extraordinarily… The First Lady and I are so honored to have you here. Let me just be very clear. This is your house, and we just happen to live in it. What a privilege it is. I want to thank everyone for hiring me for hiring Suzanne and letting us do the work of the Commonwealth.”

Chair of VAAB, Srilekha Palle told News India Times, “I am deeply honored to receive a proclamation during the event from Governor Youngkin. This recognition highlights the significant contributions of Asian Americans, and I am profoundly grateful for Governor Youngkin’s support and acknowledgment of our efforts.”

Palle further said the VAAB Board’s tireless dedication to promoting policies that impact business, commerce, trade, healthcare, civic engagement, and education in Virginia is truly commendable.