Illinois Celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month

May officially proclaimed AAPI Heritage Month; DCEO to host several events to support AAPI community with business resources

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today launched its Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month celebrations with a proclamation recognizing AAPI Heritage Month, spotlights on AAPI-owned businesses and hosting a series of events for business owners throughout May 2022. Additional information about resources and events can be found here.

“During Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, DCEO is honoring the critical role that AAPI-owned businesses play in Illinois’ economy,” said Director of DCEO, Sylvia I. Garcia. “We are committed to creating an inclusive business ecosystem in Illinois, helping to deliver DCEO resources to communities who have traditionally faced systemic barriers to accessing assistance and capital. During AAPI month and throughout the year, we remain steadfast in our partnership with AAPI business owners and AAPI communities across Illinois to increase access to economic opportunity.”

“As the first Asian American elected to the General Assembly, I encourage Illinoisans to celebrate National Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month by honoring the cultural and economic contributions from the AAPI community,” said State Rep. Theresa Mah (D-Chicago). “We will continue to share our message to eliminate anti-Asian sentiment and racism that has been spread throughout the community during the pandemic, while we work with stakeholders statewide to bolster programs and initiatives that support the AAPI community.”

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Hunter welcomes new St. Laurence Arts Incubator project

CHICAGO – State Senator Mattie Hunter is excited to welcome the St. Laurence Arts Incubator project in Grand Crossing, a $1.7 million initiative to open doors for Chicago’s artists of color.

The St. Laurence Arts Incubator is the newest and largest project to date from the Rebuild Foundation, which has worked to preserve cultural sites like the Stony Island Arts Bank, the Retreat at Currency Exchange Café, Kenwood Gardens, and the Dorchester Art + Housing Collaborative.

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Hunter: Abortion is about access

CHICAGO – State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) released the following statement after a draft Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade was leaked:

“As a Black woman in this country, I am often disappointed but rarely surprised by the constant threat to our human rights. It seems likely that the U.S. Supreme Court wants to set our country back several decades by overturning Roe v. Wade. Doing so violates the rights of millions, while making a standard medical procedure unsafe.

“The anticipated ruling would restrict abortion access for countless people who don’t live in a protected area or can’t afford to travel to one. Ultimately, low-income women in unprotected areas will be most at risk.

“I am proud to serve in a state where abortion access is not an issue, and I will fight to make sure it stays that way.

Hunter on Whole Foods closing: The community is at a loss

CHICAGO – The Whole Foods in Englewood is closing, and State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) is concerned about the impact it will have on the community.

The area was considered a food desert prior to the health food store’s opening in September 2016. The city provided over $10 million to finance its development.

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