RICEMA Welcomes Massachusetts State Legislators to Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month
WORCESTER, MA – May 10, 2025 – In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, RICEMA welcomed five Massachusetts legislators on Saturday, May 10. The visit recognized RICEMA’s cultural contributions and highlighted the growing impact of the AAPI community in Central Massachusetts.
Participating legislators included:
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Michael O. Moore, Massachusetts State Senator, 2nd Worcester District
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Robyn K. Kennedy, Massachusetts State Senator, 1st Worcester District
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Tram Nguyen, Massachusetts State Representative, 18th Essex District
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John J. Mahoney, Massachusetts State Representative, 13th Worcester District
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David LeBoeuf, Massachusetts State Representative, 17th Worcester District
During their visit, the legislators engaged with local artists, youth, and volunteers involved in RICEMA’s programs, including Vietnamese as a Second Language classes, lion dance, and citizenship/English as a Second Language support. They also toured the RICEMA’s newly expanded 3,397 sq. ft. facility and learned how RICEMA serves as a vital cultural and creative hub in Worcester.
“This visit is a meaningful recognition of our work to elevate Asian voices and celebrate heritage through art and community,” said Boa Newgate, Founder and Co-Executive Director of RICEMA. “We’re honored to host these legislators during AAPI Heritage Month and share how our programs are shaping identity, inclusion, and connection.”
In addition to visiting RICEMA, the legislators also toured Vietnamese-owned local businesses, including Le Hong Law & Real Estate, Mint Kitchen, Kaffee In, and Mía Cane Juicery. “I, along with many other local businesses, feel supported, heard, and represented. This visit is an important first step in building meaningful relationships with our community. We’re hopeful that this momentum continues—and that more resources and opportunities will follow to help our work grow,” Newgate added.
AAPI Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of AAPI communities. RICEMA is honored to use this moment to uplift the voices and stories of AAPI entrepreneurs, highlight the vibrant local businesses that shape our neighborhoods, and foster deeper connections between community leaders and those driving grassroots economic growth. Together, RICEMA aims to build a stronger, more inclusive future, rooted in equity, cultural pride, and local empowerment.
