AAHOA Honored to Attend White House Celebration of the AANHPI Community's Contributions to the United States

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JODI SCOTT
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AAHOA Honored to Attend White House Celebration of the AANHPI Community's Contributions to the United States

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 14 – AAHOA (Asian American Hotel Owners Association) was honored to participate in a White House reception celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. AAHOA Chairman Miraj S. Patel and President & CEO Laura Lee Blake represented AAHOA at the event.

U.S. President Joe Biden and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris made remarks at the reception, a significant event that underscores the government's recognition of the AANHPI community. The reception took place in the historic Rose Garden.

Last month, the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders and the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center issued a call for intergenerational connection, action, and reflection. This year marks 25 years since the creation of the White House Initiative and President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.

"We were honored and privileged to represent AAHOA and our 20,000 members at the historic White House celebration," said AAHOA Chairman Miraj S. Patel. "This event highlights the AA and NHPI communities' remarkable contributions to the U.S., mirroring AAHOA's representation of Asian American entrepreneurship in hospitality for the past 35 years. As we reflect on our rich heritage during AANHPI Month, we honor the incredible legacy of Asian American hoteliers and entrepreneurs who have shaped – and continue to shape – our industry and nation."

"It was inspiring to hear from our nation's top leaders, each underscoring the historical backdrop, vital contributions, and rich diversity of our communities," said AAHOA President & CEO Laura Lee Blake. "I am proud to stand with leaders who are dedicated to ensuring the voices of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders are heard and respected. We thank the White House for this prestigious invitation and to all who continue to champion AAHOA Members' contributions and potential."

About AAHOA

AAHOA is the largest hotel owners association in the world, with Member-owned properties representing a significant part of the U.S. economy. AAHOA's 20,000 members own 60% of the hotels in the United States and are responsible for 1.7% of the nation’s GDP. More than one million employees work at AAHOA Member-owned hotels, earning $47 billion annually, and member-owned hotels support 4.2 million U.S. jobs across all sectors of the hospitality industry. AAHOA's mission is to advance and protect the business interests of hotel owners through advocacy, industry leadership, professional development, member benefits, and community engagement.