PICTORIAL: 40th anniversary of the Washington State Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs

On May 15, the Washington State Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA) brought youth, community leaders, elected officials and commissioners together at the Holiday Inn in Seatac for a celebration of history and to inspire a new generation.

Attendees were treated to performances by the Filipino Youth Activities Drill Team, Seattle Kokon Taiko drummers, and Samoan dancers Tautua.

The evening was emceed by KING 5’s Lori Matsukawa, and featured welcoming remarks by CAPAA Executive Director Michael Itti. After a panel discussion on the four decades of CAPAA, Gov. Jay Inslee spoke, followed by Voices of the Next Generation. (end)

Photos by George Liu/NWAW

Debadutta Dash and former Ambassador Gary Locke

Panel discussion

Gov. Jay Inslee and Charlyn Garcia, Miss Kitsap 2014

Bob Santos, center, community leader

Staff and students at CAPAA

Ellen Abellera, former director of CAPAA

The delicious buffet

Tautau, Samoan dancers

Filipino Youth Activities Drill Team

CAPAA Executive Director Michael Itti

Seattle Kokon Taiko drummers