FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Wednesday, May 4, 2022
Contact: PR@fapac.org

Remembering Secretary Norman Mineta

WASHINGTON, D.C. –  The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) is saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved friend, former USDOT Secretary Norman Mineta.  He was a friend of many and a devotee to the entire AANHPI community.  He touched people’s heart with his warm handshakes and gentle interactions.  He inspired us with his legacy and words of wisdom.  He was a veteran and a trailblazer. He is a legendary hero.  Secretary Mineta broke racial barriers for Asian Americans and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders throughout his notable public service. Coincidently, he passed in the AANHPI Heritage Month of May during the Public Service Recognition Week.

In honor of Secretary Mineta, FAPAC awards the Distinguished Public Service Scholarship, on a rotational basis, to AANHPI students who are interested in public service, exhibit academic excellence, and demonstrate a continuous effort to foster diversity and inclusion in AANHPI communities.  Secretary Mineta was the first Asian American to serve in two Cabinet positions, one as the Secretary of Commerce and the other as the Secretary of Transportation.  He is also the first in U.S. history to have served in both the Democratic and the Republican administrations. His dedication and relentless efforts in public service have opened doors for many others. 

As he rests in peace, his legend lives on.