In May we recognize and honor the contributions of Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. This is a time to learn about different Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities, celebrate their accomplishments, and look for ways to help build a better future, together.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month originated in 1977, after Congress passed a joint resolution to proclaim the first ten days in May as Pacific/Asian American Heritage Week. It wasn’t until 1992 that Congress officially expanded the observance to the month of May. This month was chosen specifically to commemorate the immigration of the first known Japanese people to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. This honored the fact that the majority of the workers who laid the tracks on the railroad were Chinese immigrants.
This year, as we continue to celebrate the AAPI community, we must also acknowledge the continued rising discrimination that has targeted AAPI communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. These hate crimes are part of a longer historical pattern, legitimized in racist and xenophobic laws and institutions that stigmatize AAPI communities and other communities of color. We must also acknowledge that anti-Asian hate and violence targets women at 2.3 times the rate of men due to the dual forces of racism and misogyny. This violence cannot be tolerated, and we must continue to stand against it and in solidarity with AAPI communities.
For more information on how you can celebrate throughout the month of May, visit these resources below:
- Check out the Library of Congress’ Calendar.
- Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Stories on Netflix and Hulu.
- Sign up for a training on bystander intervention to stop anti-Asian harassment and xenophobia.
- Take the time to learn about AAPI history.
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