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Heritage Month
from May 2023 PULSE
by PTSMC
By Marilex Santiago, DEI Leader & Administrative Coordinator
May is Asian American & Paci c Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the rich history, culture, contributions, and experiences of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Paci c Islanders in the United States. This month-long observance has its roots in a joint congressional resolution in 1977 that designated the rst ten days of May as “Asian-Paci c Heritage Week.” It was later expanded in 1990 to encompass the entire month of May. The month of May was chosen because the transcontinental railroad was completed on May 10, 1869, and most workers who laid its tracks were Chinese immigrants.
The celebration of AAPI Heritage Month is important because it recognizes and elevates the stories, experiences, and struggles of the AAPI community, which has often been marginalized and overlooked in American history. This month also provides an opportunity to raise awareness about issues facing the AAPI community, such as discrimination, hate crimes, and the model minority myth. The AAPI community is incredibly diverse, encompassing more than 50 ethnic groups and speaking over 100 languages. They are the fastest-growing racial group in the United States, with a population of over 24 million people.
There are several ways to observe AAPI Heritage Month, by learning, supporting, and advocating:
• Learn about the history and contributions of the AAPI community through books, documentaries, and online resources. Click HERE for a great collection of documentaries, interviews, stories, and art to learn more from the AAPI community.
• Support AAPI-owned businesses and artists and attend cultural events and festivals. Check out AAPI Westport, a Westport, Connecticut based group with the mission “to foster a sense of belonging within our community, as well as increase AAPI visibility and awareness throughout Westport and beyond.” Click HERE for their events and directory to see how you can support locally.
• Speak out against discrimination and hate crimes targeting the AAPI community and advocate for policies that promote equity and justice for all.
