Title
To honor and recognize Columbus' Annual Asian Festival on its 21st anniversary.
Body
WHEREAS, in the summer of 1994, an all-volunteer based group from the Asian community came together to celebrate the cultural contributions of that diverse community by holding a Gala and Festival; and
WHEREAS, that Asian Festival became an annual event, celebrated each year for the past twenty-one years; and
WHEREAS, the Asian Festival represents over 15 Asian ethnic groups within Central Ohio, and highlights the beauty of Asian cultures, heritage, tradition, and arts; and
WHEREAS, on May 23rd and 24th, 2015, Asian Festival will host artistic performances and exhibits, in Franklin Park, that will expand the general public's understanding of Asian cultures; and
WHEREAS, the festival will feature some of the best, and most authentic, cultural traditions from many of our Ohio Asian communities, encompassing a performance arts series, visual arts and crafts, and including the opportunity to enjoy and purchase exquisite cuisine not available in our local Asian restaurants; and
WHEREAS, over the years, the festival has expanded to include a career fair, a picnic celebrating families with adopted Asian children, and the festival's now signature event - dragon boat races; and
WHEREAS, the Asian Festival attracts over 100,000 visitors, and is widely recognized as one of Central Ohio's premiere special events; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby honor and recognize Columbus' Annual Asian Festival on the occasion of its 21st anniversary, and encourages our entire community to attend and enjoy the beauty and depth of Asian culture and heritage.