Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
By: Kristen Albertson
As Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, May is a chance for us to honor the historical and cultural contributions made to the United States by people and groups of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. It is a time to celebrate the successes and achievements of these communities, learn about their history and culture, and recognize how they continue to shape and enrich the United States and the world.
During this month, we can recognize and celebrate the vibrant and diverse cultures of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and learn about their histories. It is an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the many contributions that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have made to our society throughout history and to celebrate their unique cultures, customs, and traditions. You can learn more about the history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States by viewing this article published by the History Channel:
https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/asian-american-pacific-islander-heritage-month
This month is also an important time to acknowledge and challenge the years of discrimination experienced by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. This discrimination occurs in various ways, from racially motivated crime to employment and housing discrimination, and has had a long-lasting negative impact on Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. It is our responsibility to take action to ensure that this discrimination does not continue. This means speaking up in support of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, raising awareness about the issues they face, and pushing for policy changes for inclusion and equity. Here are some actions that you can take according to the organization Stop AAPI Hate:
https://stopaapihate.org/actnow/
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month gives us an opportunity to expand our knowledge of and show support for the Asian and Pacific Islander community. We can start by listening to stories and conversations about being Asian and Pacific Islander in America. Below are some podcasts that you can listen to that are hosted by people who identify as Asian American and Pacific Islander:
Disability Visibility Project hosted by Alice Wong - Ep. 20 Asian American Women and Mental Health
https://disabilityvisibilityproject.com/2018/03/11/ep-20-asian-american-women-and-mental-health/
Asian American History 101 - The Bamboo Ceiling and Sticky Floor
https://asianamericanhistory101.libsyn.com/the-bamboo-ceiling-and-sticky-floor
Asian Boss Girl - Ep. 218 Chicken Feet, Plastic Bag Drawers, & Paris Baguette - What Makes Us Asian?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6L9OrHecr4
You also have the opportunity to support Asian American and Pacific Islanders this month. For example, donate to causes you care about, join an activist group in your area, and spread the word on social media. Here are some strong women in finance who identify as Asian American and Pacific Islander who you can follow on social media:
Berna Anat (Hey Berna)
https://www.instagram.com/heyberna/
Vivian Tu (Your Rich BFF)
https://www.instagram.com/your.richbff/
Rose Han
https://www.instagram.com/itsrosehan/
Sharon Tseung
https://www.instagram.com/sharontseung/
During this Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, remember to embrace the colorful history and heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Celebrate the contributions of these communities and individuals to our society and culture and learn more about their unique stories and experiences. And finally, show your support and solidarity by amplifying Asian American and Pacific Islander voices through education, allyship, and advocacy.