in effect
This is a presidential proclamation — a formal symbolic declaration issued by President Trump on May 16, 2025 — officially designating May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. It carries no regulatory or legal force; it is a ceremonial recognition that encourages Americans to learn about and celebrate AAPI heritage through programs and activities.
Nothing changes in law or regulation. The month of May was already designated “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month” by Congress under Public Law 102-450, and this proclamation reaffirms that standing designation for 2025. The document highlights several individuals — Usha Vance (Second Lady), Tulsi Gabbard (Director of National Intelligence), and the more than 77,000 AAPI members of the U.S. Armed Forces — as examples of the community’s contributions. No new funding, programs, mandates, or deadlines are created.
The proclamation is directed at the general American public, encouraging everyone to observe the month with educational programs and activities. Federal agencies and community organizations may use the proclamation as a prompt to hold commemorative events, though they are not required to do so.