The City of Gaithersburg is celebrating and honoring Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May with exhibits and a proclamation highlighting the “culture, heritage, and achievements of our Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander neighbors.”
An official proclamation designating May 2024 as “Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month” in the City of Gaithersburg was presented at the Mayor and City Council meeting on May 6. Mayor Jud Ashman presented the proclamation to Raymond S. Domingo, a first-generation immigrant originally from the province of Pampanga in the Philippines. Accepting the proclamation was Chief Chef Daniel Montez. The presentation can be seen below.
As the second of three children, Raymond gained valuable business experience at a young age by assisting with his family’s grocery store. Upon immigrating to the U.S. in the early 2000s, he held various positions in sales and the transportation and production industries. Eventually, he seized an opportunity to partner with his uncle to open Matthew’s Grill, a popular destination for those seeking authentic Filipino cuisine that has also made significant contributions to the community. Through involvement with local churches, schools, basketball leagues, and nonprofit organizations, the restaurant has become a hub for social interaction and community engagement.
Several exhibits celebrating Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month are on display at the Activity Center at Bohrer Park. The City’s Multicultural Affairs Committee celebrates the rich history, cultural influences, and heritage of Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders with an educational art display through May 30. The Harmonious Art Group 24th Annual Exhibitionshowcases artwork by Asian American artists and highlights both Chinese brush painting and calligraphy. The exhibit is on display through July 9.
The mission of the Multicultural Affairs Committee is to enrich our City through the promotion of understanding, respect, and appreciation of the many cultures of Gaithersburg. Learn more here. Courtesy City of Gaithersburg