Speech and Testimony
County Executive Leggett’s Remarks at the Vietnamese American Arts Festival - Opening Ceremony/Ribbon Cutting
Silver Spring Civic Building, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring
As prepared
Good evening!
Thank you for inviting me to be part of this event!
Montgomery County values the history and culture of all of our residents and is always happy to provide a space for communities to host cultural celebrations such as this one.
Whether you live or work in Montgomery County, you should know it is an incredibly, open, welcoming, and diverse community.
Asian Americans are the fastest growing population in Montgomery County and that trend is reflected in the fact that about 15 percent of Montgomery County residents are of Asian descent.
That’s a far higher percentage than the national average of about 6 percent. As County Executive I am committed to fostering a diverse and welcoming community in Montgomery County.
Another area where we have distinguished ourselves is in the arts. Over the years, Montgomery County has established itself as a cultural arts destination offering top-notch entertainment with state-of-the-art venues and flourishing arts.
The arts and humanities drive our County’s economy and uplift the community spirit. That’s why events like the Vietnamese Arts Festival are so vital.
The arts and humanities have the power to transform and uplift our lives; and I am committed to supporting this lifeline of the County.
I want to thank all of you for attending today. Enjoy this opening of the festival! Thank you!
# # #
Release ID: 17-075
Monday, July 3; 6 p.m.