Asian American and Pacific Islander communities across the Commonwealth of Virginia have been facing acts of bullying, violence, and hatred in recent years. A 2023 AAPI Data poll by the Associated Press revealed that 23% of Asian Americans encountered verbal harassment or abuse, while 10% experienced physical assault or threats. Approximately one-third of AAPI individuals encountered professional discrimination based on their race, and over 50% felt discomfort or insecurity in the U.S. due to their ethnicity. In a separate study, Pew Research reported that nearly one-third of Americans perceived Asian Americans as more loyal to their perceived country of origin, and almost 80% of Asian Americans did not feel fully accepted in the United States. This reality highlights the urgent need to address anti-Asian American prejudice, discrimination, and hate.

Knowledge is a powerful tool in combating hate, as ignorance often leads to bullying and violence. Incorporating Asian American and Pacific Islander history into educational curricula can contribute significantly to fostering understanding among community members. By educating current and future generations about the triumphs and challenges of Asian Americans, we can promote empathy and appreciation for their integral role in our country's history.

Delegate Marty Martinez of Leesburg, VA is championing HB-1353, a crucial bill aimed at establishing an Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Commission. The commission's purpose is to advise and regularly report to the Virginia Board of Education on the implementation of new educational standards focusing on AAPI contributions, culture, history, heritage, and language.  Virginia previously established an African American History Education Commission with the same mission.  Our goal is to follow that model to bring legislators and community members together to ensure that Asian American history is taught in a way that is comprehensive, thoughtful, and culturally responsive.

Similar AAPI education legislation been successfully enacted in five states, with broad bipartisan support. Virginia now has an opportunity to make a difference. Although the AAPI education bill was passed in the Virginia House last year, it fell short in the Virginia Senate. It is essential that we succeed this year with these new standards rolling out. We should have a voice in how our history is taught!

You can make a difference by signing this petition to show your support for HB 1353 as a crucial step toward creating a more inclusive and accurate education system. 

This petition is endorsed by the following local organizations:

• Coalition of Asian Pacific Americans of Virginia
• Make Us Visible Virginia
• Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce
• Korean American Society of Greater Richmond
• Alliance for Korea United Washington DC
• Hung Ci Lion Dance Troupe
• Korean American Foundation of Greater Washington