Media release

Chicago, May 15: Illinois Secretary of State held his Annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Reception 2018 on May 15 at the James R Thompson Center Concourse Level in Chicago.

“As Secretary of State, it is my honour to welcome you to the Secretary of State’s Annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration. During the month of May, we join the nation in recognizing Asian Pacific Americans who have made a difference in their communities,

“Today’s celebration honours a variety of individuals who have each contributed significantly to their communities and the state of Illinois. We salute all of our honourees for the hard work and standard of excellence that they demonstrate each day,” said Illinois Secretary of State in welcome speech.

The programme also featured members of the Asian Pacific Community, who have served and succeeded as leaders in their fields, whose leaderships are inspirational and admirable.

Dr John Kalapurakal, the vice chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology at Northwestern University, was honoured with the Humanitarian Service Award.

Josina Wing Morita, human rights leader and the first Asian-American elected to a countywide board in Cook County, was honoured with the Judge Laura Cha-Yu Lie Trailblazer Award.

Dr Austin D’Souza Prabhu, a Mangalurean born writer, activist, social worker and philanthropist, was honoured for his humanitarianism and activism for more than 40 years. He was honoured with the Humanitarian Excellence Award.

Stephani Chan Vo, with the Volunteer Achievement Award. Rebecca Yemin Shi was honoured with the Community Leadership Award.

The event was emceed by ABC TV anchorman Ravi Baichwal and Fox TV anchorwoman Joanie Lum.