Today marks the start of Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! More than 30 years ago, Congress designated this national time to honor and celebrate the AAPI community and their many contributions to American history, society, and culture. May is the chosen month as it honors the arrival of the first Japanese to the U.S. on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the first transcontinental railroad, largely built by Chinese immigrants, on May 10, 1869.
This year’s AAPI theme is “Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration.”
Consistent with our inclusive culture, we offer the following resources as opportunities to learn more about AAPI heritage and communities:
- Library of Congress and the National Archives online exhibits, events, and insights.
https://asianpacificheritage.gov/
- PBS curated films and shows that explore AAPI history, traditions, and culture, including the premier of:
- “Try Harder” – a documentary profiling the academic pressure of San Francisco’s Lowell High School.
- “A Tale of Three Chinatowns” which explores the economic survival of these neighborhoods in Boston, Chicago, and Washington D.C.
https://www.pbs.org/articles/celebrate-asian-american-and-pacific-islander-heritage-month-may-2022
- Parents Magazine videos, content, and activities for families to learn and celebrate AAPI Heritage Month together.
https://www.parents.com/holiday/asian-pacific-american-heritage-month-history-and-activities-for-kids/
