State Assemblywoman Gina L. Sillitti (D-Port Washington) announced that legislation she co-sponsored to establish the New York Asian American and Pacific Islander Commission has passed the Assembly.

The commission is a milestone for greater representation and opportunities for the AAPI community in New York State, and will serve as a platform to advance policies that promote equity and celebrate AAPI culture.

“In the wake of a wave of anti-Asian hate crimes within the last few years, we must create a space to address these xenophobic attacks and promote inclusivity,” said Sillitti. “While Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month has come to an end, I encourage my fellow Long Islanders to stand with our AAPI neighbors, each and every day. This commission will do just that and is a vital step toward building a stronger, more inclusive New York.”

According to NYPD statistics, 131 hate crimes targeted Asians in New York last year compared to 28 in 2020 and just one in 2019. The increase has continued so far this year, with 10 offenses logged in January and February compared to four in the same period last year.

This bill establishes a 13-member commission to develop policies to improve the communal, economic, social, health and educational factors that impact AAPI New Yorkers, a community that has long been under-represented. This commission will conduct the outreach and provide the resources necessary to course-correct how we value this integral community, noted Sillitti.

Sillitti recently hosted a “Stop Asian Hate with Education” rally with state Sen. Anna Kaplan in May to spotlight the rise in anti-Asian crimes on Long Island and across New York State and support the bill sponsored by state Sen. John Liu to teach Asian American history in New York public schools (A.7260A/S.6359A).