Panida Perez, left, of Amelia County helps her friend Piyamitra Thanasophon of Henrico put finishing touches on their traditional Thai dresses prior to their performance with the NE Thai Folk Dance of Virginia during the 25th Annual Asian American Celebration on May 20, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. The event was hosted by the nonprofit Asian American Society of Central Virginia Communities, which seeks to advance the integration of Asian Americans into the local community, while maintaining ethnic traditions, culture and identity. Afghan, Bangladesh, Cambodian, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese were among more than a dozen communities celebrating the festive event. In addition to cultural performances, the celebration included heritage exhibits, hands on activities, food vendors, fun, family and friendships.
