The Nassau County Legislature passed a law on Monday that will establish an Office of Asian-American Affairs.
“This is a groundbreaking and historic act on the part of this legislature that recognizes the leadership and contributions that the Asian American community is providing to this county currently,” said Presiding Officer Richard Nicolello (R-New Hyde Park).
Nicolello said that since 2005, the Asian-American population in Nassau County has grown by 40 percent, and it now makes up more than 10 percent of the county population.
“The Asian American population is as diverse as this county,” said Nicolello. “It is as diverse as this country, reaching people from different backgrounds, countries, cultures, heritages, languages.”
Nicolello said that Asian-Americans already hold many leadership roles throughout the community, and this action will continue to increase the involvement of Asian-Americans in Nassau County.
“Asian-Americans hold a significant portion of Nassau County’s very diverse population, and this new agency will benefit us all greatly,” said Dr. Isma Chaudhry, chairwoman of the Islamic Center of Long Island’s board of trustees. “Representation in government matters and I look forward to working with this agency and all the legislators to make sure Asian-Americans are provided the resources and opportunities needed.”
Currently, there is an Asian American Advisory Committee that operates without a staff or budget. The Asian-American agency will take the place of this committee. The new agency will be funded and the executive director will be appointed by the county executive and approved by the Legislature.
