[VT – Philadelphia] In May 2025, as the nation celebrates Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda (HI-02) delivered a heartfelt message to the nationwide AANHPI community via Chinese in US (美华社), extending her warmest congratulations and support.
In her video message, Rep. Tokuda said, “Aloha, everyone! I’m Congresswoman Jill Tokuda from Hawaiʻi’s Second District. I’m thrilled to join you in celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month. Today’s room is filled to capacity, and we are all gathered here to recognize our collective strength. We make up 7% of the U.S. population—and growing—and we are the fastest-growing voting bloc in the country. In many elections, we are the margin of victory.”
She emphasized that this month is not only a time to celebrate the rich history and culture of AANHPI communities, but also a critical opportunity to strengthen solidarity and political influence. Tokuda called on leaders across sectors to continue supporting the development of AANHPI communities and to advance diversity, inclusion, and shared progress.
The Cultural Significance of “Aloha”
The congresswoman began her message with “Aloha,” the iconic Hawaiian greeting that holds deep cultural meaning beyond a simple hello or goodbye. “Aloha” conveys love, peace, compassion, and mutual respect—core values of Hawaiian culture that embody warmth, empathy, and human connection. By opening with this word, Tokuda not only extended a heartfelt welcome but also reaffirmed her respect for local traditions and her community-centered leadership approach.
Jill Tokuda: A Rising Leader in Congress and the AANHPI Community
Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2022 and re-elected in 2024, Rep. Jill Tokuda has swiftly established herself as a rising force in Congress and a key voice for the AANHPI community. Representing Hawaiʻi’s 2nd District, she has become a vital advocate for her constituents and a powerful figure in advancing inclusive policy.
Tokuda currently serves as the Second Vice Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), which includes nearly 100 members. Under the leadership of Chair Rep. Grace Meng (NY) and First Vice Chair Rep. Mark Takano (CA), CAPAC plays a pivotal role in promoting civil rights, cultural recognition, and legislative priorities for AANHPI communities. Tokuda’s leadership position underscores her influence in shaping national policy and expanding the community’s political footprint.
She is also an active member of the House Agriculture Committee and the Armed Services Committee—two high-impact bodies that oversee critical issues including food security, agricultural innovation, national defense, and military personnel policy. Additionally, Tokuda plays a vocal role in the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where she champions equity, environmental justice, and public health.
As a new-generation AANHPI political leader, Tokuda brings a rare blend of grassroots experience and federal legislative capability. Her career spans over a decade in the Hawaiʻi State Senate, where she chaired the powerful Ways and Means Committee and drove forward key initiatives in education, labor, and public budgeting.
Now in Congress, she continues to push for greater representation, visibility, and resource equity for AANHPI communities, embodying the future of political leadership rooted in diversity and impact. Her work is a testament to the growing influence and resilience of AANHPI voices in American civic life.
This report includes contributions from Sarah Lin
