May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
What’s Happening: National Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AAHPI) Heritage Month is observed annually in May to celebrate and recognize the rich cultural heritage and diverse contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. It's a time to acknowledge the achievements of generations of AAPI individuals and to promote understanding and appreciation of their history and cultures!
Did You Know: The month is observed in May to coincide with the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the U.S. on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, where many Chinese immigrants played a crucial role
The designation of May as AAPI Heritage Month was officially signed into law in 1992
The month now encompasses Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI).
Why It Matters: The month provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of AAPI individuals in various fields, including science, arts, politics, sports, and more. The month also encourages people to learn about and appreciate the diverse cultures and traditions of communities outside their own!
Go Deeper: Learn more about AANHPI Month and contributions HERE