Trump Honors Usha Vance, Tulsi Gabbard In AAPI Proclamation

hoto: @UshaVanceNews (Left)

India-West Staff Reporter

WASHINGTON, DC  — President Donald Trump recognized the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders during Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month on May 16, issuing a formal proclamation that highlighted the personal stories of key public figures, including Second Lady Usha Chilukuri and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.

Praising their dedication and service, Trump noted, “In the 1980s, Lakshmi and Radhakrishna Chilukuri immigrated from India to the United States and dedicated their lives to higher education. They built a life in America and raised a family… Their daughter, Usha, now serves as the Second Lady of the United States.”

He also singled out Tulsi Gabbard, calling her “a native of American Samoa” who “has dedicated her career to protecting our Republic, serving in the military and now as the Director of National Intelligence.”

The proclamation emphasized the significant role of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in shaping the nation, stating, “Throughout our history, the United States has been strengthened by the contributions of citizens from every background, united in the shared pursuit of the American Dream.”

Trump acknowledged the hardships faced by immigrant families and their enduring resilience. “Forged by hardship and trial, they have never wavered in their contributions toward the advancement of our common destiny,” he said.

Currently, more than 77,000 Asian American and Pacific Islanders serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, according to the proclamation. The President described their service, and that of generations before them, as central to “a stronger, safer, and more prosperous country.”

Declaring May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Trump urged all Americans to learn more about the heritage and contributions of AAPI communities and to observe the month through appropriate activities.

The proclamation closed with a reaffirmation of the American spirit as one of “resilience, independence, and relentless pursuit of freedom and opportunity,” values the President said are exemplified by AAPI communities across the nation.