Agenda Summary
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Proclaiming that the week of May 10 through May 17, 2026 is Taiwanese American Heritage Week.
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Official Text
Proclamation
WHEREAS: the United States has long been shaped and strengthened by immigrants who arrived here to build their lives; and
WHEREAS: each brought part of their own heritage, which over time became part of our common heritage; and
WHEREAS: more than 20,000 Taiwanese Americans have made their homes in Massachusetts, including a vibrant community in Somerville; and
WHEREAS: Taiwanese Americans have played pivotal roles in shaping the cultural and economic landscape in Massachusetts, achieving excellence in academia, science, medicine, and entrepreneurship; and
WHEREAS: the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, as the pioneering state in the United States to legalize same-sex marriage, shares a profound connection with Taiwan, the first country in Asia to make such strides in the pursuit of equality and freedom; and
WHEREAS: the year of 2026 marks the 47th anniversary of the enactment into law of the 1979 “Taiwan Relations Act,” which - together with the 1982 “Six Assurances” - forms the cornerstone of U.S.-Taiwan relations; and
WHEREAS: Taiwanese Americans are proud of their roots and heritage defined by a quest for freedom, democracy, and self-determination; and
WHEREAS: Taiwan has consistently demonstrated resilience and perseverance in the face of ever-growing geopolitical challenges; and
WHEREAS: this week recognizes the longstanding friendship between the United States and Taiwan.
NOW, THEREFORE be it known to all those present that the Mayor of the City of Somerville respectfully proclaims
May 10-17, 2026 as Taiwanese American Heritage Week.
Proclaimed on this 14th day of May, 2026 by
Jake Wilson
Mayor