Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI) throughout May is a time to celebrate and recognize the contributions and achievements of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans to the nation's history, culture and society.
The Asian Pacific American community is made up of more than 50 distinct ethnic groups, including Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Hawaiian, Samoan, Cambodian, Uzbekistan and many others. Each group has its own unique history, traditions, and contributions to the United States.
In 1992, President George H.W. Bush signed legislation extending the celebration to the whole month of May, continuing a late 1970s initiative to formally commemorate the contributions made by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the United States. The month of May was chosen to commemorate two important events: the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, which was largely constructed by Chinese immigrants; and the entry of the first recorded Japanese immigrant to the United States on May 7, 1843. These occasions signify important turning points in the history of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans and the contributions they have made to the expansion and progress of the United States.
This year 2023, The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) declares the theme for the AAPI IS, “Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity.” As part of this theme, the FAPAC urges local and national governments to prioritize creating opportunities for individuals in the AAPI community to develop their skills and improve their leadership abilities. Other resources to engage with in this celebration month include “The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center” whose vision is to enhance the American narrative by incorporating the perspectives and experiences of Asian Pacific Americans.
In conclusion, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is a time to honor the broad and rich cultural history of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans as well as their contributions to the country. It is also a moment to recognize the difficulties and struggles encountered by the Asian Pacific American community and to work toward establishing a more just and equitable society for all.
The Asian Student Association (ASA) in SUNY Oswego is a credible student organization that serves as a relevant resource in this month’s celebration. Their mission is “To promote the culture and traditions of the Asian community in fun interactive ways and build a community between students and a better understanding of Asian culture.” For further details about the organization, visit their website via this link.
-- Submitted by the Triandiflou Institute for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Transformative Practice