Mayor London Breed highlights art's role in combating racism at APA Heritage Month event

On July 4, 2025, San Francisco County hosted a significant event to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, focusing on the urgent need to address racism and promote social justice through art. The gathering, led by Claudine Chang, President of the APA Heritage Foundation, highlighted the challenges faced by the Asian Pacific American community, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and a rise in anti-Asian sentiment.

In her opening remarks, Mayor London Breed emphasized the importance of unity in combating systemic bias and discrimination. She acknowledged the ongoing struggles against hatred and called for collective action to build bridges between diverse cultures. "Celebrating our diverse cultures and practicing love and compassion for each other is how we build stronger, more resilient communities," she stated, reinforcing the event's theme of intersectionality and collaboration.

The program featured a series of conversations among artists from various ethnic backgrounds, showcasing how they use their art as a tool for activism and social impact. Anne Lai, Executive Director of SF Film, noted the significance of this year's celebration, which for the first time included a broader representation of artists, emphasizing the urgency of art in fostering understanding and unity.

The event set the stage for meaningful discussions on cultural identity and the role of art in social justice, with the first conversation featuring Tongo Eisen Martin, San Francisco's Poet Laureate, and Michael Lambert, the city librarian. Their dialogue aimed to explore the intersection of art and activism, furthering the event's mission to promote inclusivity and resilience within the community.

As San Francisco continues to navigate the complexities of diversity and social justice, this celebration serves as a reminder of the power of art to connect individuals and inspire collective action against racism and inequality. The discussions initiated during this event are expected to resonate throughout the community, fostering ongoing dialogue and collaboration in the pursuit of a more equitable society.