In honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we continue to recognize the economic, cultural, political, and social contributions of notable immigrants and refugees who’ve helped shape America’s vibrant tapestry. Today, we highlight Japanese American Senator Mazie Hirono, the first Asian American woman elected to the U.S. Senate.
Mazie Keiko Hirono was born in November 1947 in Fukushima, Japan, and raised in the aftermath of World War II. At eight, Hirono immigrated to Hawaii with her family, seeking safety and a better future. When Hawaii became the 50th state in 1959, Hirono and her family automatically gained citizenship via official statehood.
Hirono attended the University of Hawaii at Mānoa and later earned her law degree from Georgetown University. Her journey into public service launched in 1980 when she was elected to the Hawaii House of Representatives, where she served for four years.
In 1994, she was elected Lieutenant Governor of Hawaii, serving under Governor Ben Cayetano. She made history as the first woman and first Asian American to hold the office of Lieutenant Governor in the state.
Eight years later, Hirono successfully ran and won her election to the U.S. House of Representatives. Representing Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District, she became the first woman elected to this position in Hawaii’s history. During her three terms in the House, Hirono prioritized issues such as affordable healthcare, renewable energy, and veterans’ services.
In 2012, she made history by becoming the first Asian American woman elected to the U.S. Senate, as well as the first Buddhist and first immigrant woman to serve in the body.
Senator Hirono is known for her fierce advocacy on behalf of marginalized communities, including immigrants, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and working families. She has spoken out strongly against xenophobia, using her platform to defend democratic values, civil rights, and healthcare access.
Today, Hirono continues to serve as the United States Senator for Hawaii, a position she has held since January 3, 2013. She is set to serve through her re-election in 2031.
Others we are celebrating in honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month:
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Betty Nguyen, award-winning Vietnamese American news anchor
