Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso recently hosted an event in celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
More than 150 guests were in attendance at the event — which took place at Brooklyn Borough Hall — to help commemorate Brooklyn’s several AANHPI communities.
During the evening, Reynoso handed out multiple awards to recipients who went "above and beyond for their communities," according to a release.
The borough president awarded proclamations to the APNA Brooklyn Community Center and to Bangladeshi American Community Development and Youth Services, in addition to recognizing Ashley Huang — the director of the School-Age Child Care Center at P.S. 153 in Homecrest — with a citation in honor of her "dedication to empowering immigrant and low-income families to access necessary resources."
“Everything we can dream up for our city’s future is inspired by the stories and cultures that live within the people who call it home,” said Reynoso.
“I’m so excited that this month is all about celebrating our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander neighbors’ heritage and vision for Brooklyn. This borough is at its best when we come together in appreciation of what makes us special and in recognition of what binds us as one: our love for Brooklyn. With these values held firmly within us, we can ensure our neighborhoods remain safe homes for all, free of hate and judgement and instead full of celebration and respect.”
Throughout the event, guests were treated to a variety of music and dance performances. Among them was a South Indian classical music-inspired violin performance from members of the Brooklyn Raga Massive; a vocal rendition of Shakira's "Try Everything," performed by first-grade students from P.S. 153; as well as a dance number from the Bangladesh Institute of Performing Arts.
In addition to experiencing entertaining live performances, Brooklynites in attendance had the opportunity to enjoy food provided by a number of local restaurants, including Indian dishes from Jalsa Grill & Gravy (located in Brooklyn's Little Pakistan), along with Hawaiian cuisine from SweetTalk (which can be found in the neighborhood of Gowanus).
Partnering with Reynoso on the event was the Chinese-American Planning Council. Organizations that provided support to make the celebration happen included Aetna, Brooklyn for All, Inc., EmblemHealth and Ponce Bank.
