The Washington State Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA) will bring together youth, community leaders, elected officials, and commissioners to celebrate its 40th anniversary on May 15, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in SeaTac (formerly the Holiday Inn), at 17338 International Blvd. The anniversary event will honor the commission’s legacy, accomplishments, and vision for the future through performances, storytelling, and youth voices.

Lori Matsukawa of King 5 News will emcee the event, which will feature Gov. Jay Inslee and performances by the Filipino Youth Activities Drill Team and Taiko Drummers & Tautua. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. The dinner buffet is at 6 p.m. The program begins at 6:30 p.m.

The hotel is walking distance from the SeaTac Light Rail station. Hotel parking with validation will be available for $5.

On Feb. 26, 1974, the 43rd Washington State Legislature formally created the Washington State Commission on Asian American Affairs as a state agency, with the mission “to improve the well-being of Asian Pacific Americans by ensuring their access to participation in the fields of government, business, education, and other areas.” In 1995, Gov. Mike Lowry signed a bill to change the Commission’s name to The State of Washington Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs to include Pacific Islanders. (end)

This article was originally published in the Northwest Asian Weekly: http://nwasianweekly.com/2014/04/apa-commission-celebrates-40-years/