Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are the fastest-growing immigrant group in the U.S., with nearly a third living in California.

In the midst of a surge in hate crimes against the AAPI community, we're highlighting the many contributions they've made to the Golden State. 

"You can't talk about California without talking about the Asian American Pacific Islander population. We contribute to the richness of the state," said Karthick Ramakrishnan, a professor of public policy and political science at the University of California, Riverside.

"You look at ethnic business districts, you look at restaurants, you look at religious institutions," Ramakrishnan said. "From Hindu temples to Buddhist temples to Korean American churches, it's really incredible to see that diversity."

California is home to approximately 6.5 million Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Their diversity expands continents, languages and demographics.

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