Celebrating Asian/Pacific American Heritage: Recognizing Contributions and Cultivating Inclusion

By Sarah Samra, Clarion staff reporer

Every May, we celebrate Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month to honor the achievements and contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and society of the United States. This month-long observance pays tribute to the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history and are an integral part of the country's diverse tapestry.

Central Asia includes Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan; East Asia includes China, Mongolia, North Korea, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau; South Asia includes Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Iran, and the Maldives; Southeast Asia includes Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste, and Vietnam; Western Asia is usually referred to as the Middle East but more recently has been called West Asia-North Africa (WANA). Source: Morningside Center

Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month originated as Asian Pacific American Heritage Week, which was first established in 1979 by Congress and signed into law by President Jimmy Carter. In 1992, the observance was expanded to a month-long celebration to honor the vast and diverse contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans.

Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month is a time to recognize the significant impact that Asian and Pacific Islander Americans have had on various fields, including business, politics, science, arts, and more. From civil rights activists like Yuri Kochiyama and Grace Lee Boggs to trailblazing scientists like Dr. Michio Kaku and Mae Jemison, Asian and Pacific Islander Americans have made significant strides in shaping America's history and shaping the future.

U.S. Pacific Islands include American Samoa, Federated States of Micronesia, Hawai’i, Guam, Marshall Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau. Source: Morningside Center

This month also serves as an opportunity to educate and raise awareness about the rich cultural heritage of Asian and Pacific Islander communities. From celebrations of traditional festivals like Diwali, Lunar New Year, and the Obon Festival to showcasing diverse cuisines, music, dance, and art forms, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month highlights the cultural vibrancy and diversity within these communities.

However, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges and discrimination that Asian and Pacific Islander Americans have faced throughout history, from the Chinese Exclusion Act to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II to the rise in anti-Asian violence and discrimination in recent years. By recognizing these struggles, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all. 

As we celebrate Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, let us reflect on the resilience, strength, and contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans and continue to support and uplift their voices and experiences. Let us strive to build a more inclusive and equitable society where all individuals are valued and celebrated for their unique identities and contributions.

Sources

• Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. "About APA Heritage Month."

• The Library of Congress. "Asian American and Pacific Islander Collections."

• Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center.

• Morningside Center for Teaching Moral Responsibility. "What does Asian/Pacific Islander Really Mean?"