Health Commission unanimously adopts resolution honoring Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

The San Francisco Health Commission unanimously adopted resolution 22‑14 on May 3, recognizing Asian and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, highlighting AAPI contributions to public health and calling attention to ongoing inequities and anti‑Asian harassment.

Dr. Tony Rucker, manager in the Department of Public Health Office of Health Equity, introduced the resolution and described the department’s efforts to document contributions and address systemic barriers facing AAPI communities. “The Office of Health Equity is working with different sections across the Department of Public Health…to address Asian Pacific Islander health and social inequities,” Rucker said.

Commissioners Tessie Guillermo, Chow/Chao and Chung read sections of the resolution, which traces historical milestones, cites federal recognition (Section 102 of Title 36, United States Code) and notes a rise in anti‑Asian rhetoric and incidents since January 2020. The resolution was amended on the floor to clarify that Norman Mineta served as commerce secretary under President Bill Clinton and as transportation secretary under President George W. Bush; the amendment was accepted and the commission voted to adopt the resolution by roll call.

During public comment, Anjaka Cabande of Samcare congratulated the commission and asked for an opportunity to present a community health assessment study of Filipino residents (over 300 surveys), offering findings and recommendations to the commission.

The commission took formal action to adopt the resolution (Res. 22‑14) by roll-call vote; the item passed unanimously.