The 2025 Senate Joint Resolution 40, introduced by a bipartisan group of senators and representatives, recognizes May as Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month in Wisconsin. This resolution honors the significant contributions of AANHPI individuals to the history and culture of the United States, highlighting the state's growing AANHPI population, which has increased by 82% since 2000. The resolution emphasizes the diverse nature of the AANHPI community, which includes over 45 distinct ethnicities and more than 100 language dialects, and acknowledges the historical impact of Hmong refugees in Wisconsin.
The resolution also notes the historical significance of May in relation to AANHPI heritage, marking key events such as the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants and the completion of the transcontinental railroad, which involved substantial contributions from Chinese immigrants. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of educating Wisconsin schoolchildren about the unique histories and cultures of Asian Americans and Hmong Americans, as mandated by recent legislation. Ultimately, the resolution serves as a call to celebrate the achievements and contributions of AANHPI communities while recognizing the challenges they face, reinforcing their role in enhancing Wisconsin's rich diversity.