ASPIRE PAC Statement on Passage of Legislation to Create the First National Museum of AAPI History and Culture

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, ASPIRE PAC Chair Grace Meng released the following statement following the House passage of her bill to create the first national museum dedicated to preserving the history, culture, and accomplishments of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). The bill would create an eight-member panel to explore what it would take to acquire collections for the museum, possible locations, and plans for fundraising for the museum. The process mirrors the steps taken to create the National Museum of African American History and Culture, as well as the Latino American Smithsonian and American Women’s History Museum. 

“The AAPI community is just as American as any other community in our country. Two years into the surge of rising anti-AAPI hate, it’s more important than ever that we have a dedicated space in our nation’s capital that will promote the learning of the AAPI history and culture. A museum provides physical space to acknowledge the challenges we have had to overcome, celebrates the contributions and accomplishments we have made, and shows our potential for greatness. A national museum dedicated to AAPIs will ensure our community is seen by our fellow Americans and those who visit our shores.

“Democrats recognize that the contributions and political power of AAPIs have been ignored and overlooked for far too long. But it is the AAPI community that is the fastest growing demographic in our country and who delivered the White House and Senate during the 2020 elections. That’s why Democrats remain committed to uplifting and honoring AAPI experiences, and we will continue to fight for the prosperity and security of the AAPI community.”

Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders Rising & Empowering Political Action Committee (ASPIRE PAC) is the political arm of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Members of Congress. ASPIRE PAC is committed to supporting candidates of AAPI descent and incumbents who represent large communities of AAPI voters. According to the 2020 census, the AAPI community is the fastest-growing demographic in the country. In addition, in 2020 the AAPI community increased its voter turnout more than any other community of color. ASPIRE PAC is chaired by Congresswoman Grace Meng. There are currently 21 AAPI Members of Congress, including two U.S. Senators.

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