During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Export-Import Bank of the United States commends the 20 million Asian Americans — about 6 percent of the U.S. population — who have made key contributions throughout American history and continue to play a critical role in the nation’s success.
To honor that legacy, EXIM President and Chair Reta Jo Lewis is presenting a special message from EXIM to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month that underscores EXIM’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, our nation pays tribute to the generations of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history and who are instrumental in its future success,” Chair Lewis said. “Here at the Export-Import Bank of the United States, we want to take a moment to acknowledge those valuable contributions.”
EXIM President and Chair Reta Jo Lewis celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. You also can view her message here.
AAPI Businesses Generate Significant Economic Impact
The roots of AAPI Heritage Month date to 1978, when Congress designated a week to honor the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, which was later expanded to a month. The timing coincides with two milestones in American history: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, since the majority of workers who laid those tracks were Chinese immigrants.
In her comments, Chair Lewis highlighted the modern impact of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, noting that about one of every ten U.S. companies is Asian-owned. That's more than 555,000 businesses supporting the U.S. economy and providing jobs nationwide, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Learn How AAPI Business Owners Can Reach the Global Marketplace
EXIM’s Minority and Women-Owned Business Division (MWOB) works closely with organizations that have a minority trade focus, to help spread the word about EXIM financing and create opportunities for export-ready U.S. businesses that are owned by women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
You’re invited to join EXIM’s MWOB Division in collaboration with the National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE) and the Federation of Philippine American Chambers of Commerce (FPACC) for a free special event to commemorate AAPI Heritage Month on May 17, 2022, at 2pm EST:
Business Success Beyond the U.S.
You will hear about EXIM financing products and services as well as other resources that are available for small businesses. Speakers will include:
- Reta Jo Lewis, EXIM President and Chair.
- LaTaunya Darden, EXIM Business Development Specialist.
- Karen Eng, Board Chair for National ACE.
- Brad Baldia, National Executive Director for FPACC.
- Jake Deleon, Founder of Fila Manila, a small business based in Philadelphia.
Don't miss this opportunity — register today!
To find out how EXIM can help your business compete in the global marketplace, schedule a free consultation with a member of the MWOB team and launch your export journey today.
