Chicago: The Illinois Secretary of State held his Annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Reception 2018 on May 15 at the James R. Thompson Center Concourse Level in Chicago.

In his welcome address he said, “As Secretary of State, it is my honour to welcome you to the Secretary of State’s Annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration.”

“During the month of May, we join the nation in recognising Asian Pacific Americans who have made a difference in their communities. This year, the Xilin Art Academy and the Bharatham Academy of Dance Arts share their customs and culture with us through special performances.Today’s celebration honours a variety of individuals who have contributed significantly to their communities and the state of Illinois. We salute all of our honorees for the hard work and standard of excellence that they demonstrate each day.”

The programme also featured members of the Asian Pacific Community who have served and succeeded as leaders in their fields.

The Humanitarian Service Award was conferred on keynote speaker Dr. John Kalapurakal, Vice Chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology at Northwestern University who has dedicated his talents to educating students and treating patients.

Josina Wing Morita, a human rights leader and the first Asian-American elected to a countywide board in Cook County was honoured with the Judge Laura Cha-Yu Lie Trailblazer Award.

Dr. Austin D’Souza Prabhu was honoured with the Humanitarian Excellence Award for his humanitarianism and activism. .

Stephani Chan Vo, recognised for her dedication to volunteerism throughout the Chicagoland area was honoured with the Volunteer Achievement Award. Rebecca Yemin Shi’s who has been raising awareness about immigration issues and has aided the Asian American business community in Illinois and throughout the nation was honoured with the Community Leadership Award.

This event was emceed by ABC TV anchorman Ravi Baichwal and Fox TV anchorwoman Joanie Lum.