USA
Trump Honors Usha Vance, Tulsi Gabbard in AAPI Heritage Month Proclamation. In a powerful tribute to the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, former President Donald J. Trump issued a formal proclamation on May 16 to mark Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. The announcement spotlighted key public figures, including Second Lady Usha Chilukuri Vance and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, celebrating their service and American journeys.
Honoring Immigrant Roots and American Values
Highlighting the inspiring story of Usha Vance, Trump praised her family’s dedication to education and the American Dream. “In the 1980s, Lakshmi and Radhakrishna Chilukuri immigrated from India to the United States and dedicated their lives to higher education,” he noted. “Their daughter, Usha, now serves as the Second Lady of the United States.”
In recognizing Tulsi Gabbard, Trump called her “a native of American Samoa” who “has dedicated her career to protecting our Republic, serving in the military, and now as the Director of National Intelligence.” Gabbard’s career, he said, reflects the enduring patriotism and service of AAPI communities.
AAPI Communities: Strengthening America
Trump’s proclamation emphasized the foundational role of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in shaping American society. “Throughout our history, the United States has been strengthened by the contributions of citizens from every background, united in the shared pursuit of the American Dream,” the statement read.
He acknowledged the challenges many immigrant families have overcome, stating, “Forged by hardship and trial, they have never wavered in their contributions toward the advancement of our common destiny.”
Service and Sacrifice in Uniform
Currently, more than 77,000 AAPI members serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. Trump lauded this commitment, recognizing their presence as crucial to “a stronger, safer, and more prosperous country.” He also acknowledged the legacy of AAPI veterans who served with valor in generations past.
A Call to Celebrate and Learn
By officially declaring May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the former President called on all Americans to honor the stories, heritage, and achievements of AAPI communities. He encouraged the public to participate in observances that deepen understanding and celebrate cultural diversity.
AAPI Spirit Reflects American Ideals
Concluding the proclamation, Trump reaffirmed that the AAPI experience reflects the core American values of resilience, independence, freedom, and opportunity. “These are the ideals that have always defined our nation—and they continue to live on in the contributions of the AAPI community,” he said.
