Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to the United States. This month-long celebration recognizes the achievements and experiences of the diverse and vibrant Asian Pacific American communities across the country.

Last Month was National Poetry Month!

History of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

The history of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month goes back to the late 1970s, when a group of Asian Pacific American activists came together to advocate for greater recognition of their communities’ contributions to American society. They proposed a week-long celebration of Asian Pacific American heritage, which they called “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week,” and worked to raise awareness and support for the idea.

In 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed a joint resolution of Congress that declared the first ten days of May as “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.” The week was chosen to coincide with two significant events in Asian Pacific American history: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, which was largely built by Chinese immigrants.

Over time, the week-long celebration gained popularity and support, and in 1992, President George H.W. Bush signed a proclamation expanding the celebration to a month-long observance. The month of May was chosen to honor the original Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week and to coincide with other important dates in Asian Pacific American history, including the anniversary of the Korean immigration to the United States on May 7, 1903.

Today, this month is a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to American society, culture, and history. It is an opportunity to honor the struggles and challenges faced by these communities over the years, and to raise awareness of their unique experiences and perspectives. Through education, advocacy, and celebration, we can continue to honor and celebrate the rich and diverse heritage of Asian Pacific Americans.

Why Should I Care?

The importance of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month cannot be overstated. It provides an opportunity for Asian Pacific Americans to share their stories, cultures, and traditions with the wider American community. It also serves as a reminder of the struggles and challenges that Asian Pacific Americans have faced in the United States, including racism, discrimination, and exclusion. For Asian Americans, the month is an opportunity to celebrate their heritage and culture, and to honor the contributions of Asian Americans to American society. It is a time to raise awareness of the unique experiences and challenges faced by Asian Americans, including racism, discrimination, and exclusion, and to promote greater understanding and appreciation of their history and culture.

For non-Asian people, the month is an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the contributions of Asian Americans to American society. It is a time to broaden perspectives and deepen understanding of the diverse communities that make up America, and to recognize the important role that Asian Americans have played in shaping the country’s history, culture, and identity.

Beyond its educational value, this month is also an opportunity for all Americans to celebrate diversity and inclusion, and to promote unity and understanding across different cultures and backgrounds. By recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Asian Americans, we can build bridges of understanding and respect, and work together towards a more inclusive and equitable society. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by Asian Americans, including the rise in anti-Asian violence and discrimination in recent years. It is a time to come together and support one another, and to advocate for greater justice, equity, and inclusion for all members of our society.

Let’s all celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month together!

How Can I Take Part?

There are many ways to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Here are a few ideas:

Attend cultural events:

Many cities and towns across the country host events to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Look for events like cultural festivals, art exhibits, and performances featuring Asian Pacific American artists.

Support Asian Pacific American businesses:

Show your support for Asian Pacific American-owned businesses by shopping at local Asian markets and restaurants.

Educate yourself:

Take some time to learn about the history and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to the United States. Read books and articles, watch documentaries, and listen to podcasts that explore the Asian Pacific American experience.

Volunteer:

Consider volunteering with an organization that supports Asian Pacific American communities, such as a local community center or advocacy group. Here’s a list of 6 organizations that proudly support the AAPI community.

Connect with others:

Connect with Asian Pacific American friends and colleagues to learn more about their cultures and experiences. Attend community meetings or events to connect with other Asian Pacific Americans in your area.

In conclusion, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is an important opportunity to celebrate the rich history and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to the United States. By participating in cultural events, supporting Asian Pacific American businesses, educating ourselves, volunteering, and connecting with others, we can honor and celebrate the diverse and vibrant Asian Pacific American communities across the country.