Close to half a century ago, the U.S. government took steps to ensure the nation annually honors the achievements of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. Originally designated as a one-week celebration in May, it has gradually expanded into a month-long series of events in cities nationwide. While the celebration still includes cultural festivities involving food and fashion, it now equally addresses weighty topics such as grief and social justice. This shift has been accentuated by the increase in anti-Asian sentiment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Karen Umemoto, the director of the UCLA Asian American Studies Center, the growing participation in Asian Pacific Heritage Month activities signifies the increasing civic involvement of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The celebrations are not limited to ethnic neighborhoods but are held in various public venues, such as libraries, parks, and museums, highlighting either specific Asian cultures or a mix of different ones.
This year arrives amid a backdrop of President Donald Trumpโs restrictions on federal diversity, equity, and inclusion measures. His administrationโs actions briefly affected the preservation of content that honored Japanese American military service members. Although the White House hosted Black History Month events, plans for an AAPI Heritage Month celebration have not been publicly disclosed.
The origins of AAPI Heritage Month can be traced back to Jeanie Jew, who co-founded the Congressional Asian-Pacific American Caucus. Her story about her grandfather, who played a role in constructing the transcontinental railroad and was later a victim of anti-Asian violence, inspired Rep. Frank Horton to propose establishing understanding and appreciation for Asian contributions in America. This effort was formalized when President Jimmy Carter signed a joint resolution in 1978, following similar efforts by legislators in both houses.
The month of May was selected due to two significant historical events: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in the U.S. on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 19, 1869, largely built by Chinese laborers. Karen Umemoto recalls that early celebrations were more culturally focused, with student groups leading initiatives on history and cultural practices. In 1990, the celebration was expanded to a full month, with President Obama later renaming it Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
Under Trumpโs administration, proclamations continued to highlight the contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans as essential to the nationโs cultural and economic tapestry. The accentuated awareness and advocacy for the Month, especially during the pandemic, have led to a greater appreciation of its purpose, following incidents such as the tragic 2021 shootings in Atlanta that sparked actions from many communities, including the formation of local advocacy groups.
These groups have hosted events like the Lantern Festival for Justice and Unity, which draws upon Asian customs for remembering victims of hate crimes. Broadening the themes of the celebration, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month now includes a variety of events examining specific cultures and histories, like the Asian Comedy Fest and observances of Hmong-Lao Veterans Day, emphasizing the diversity within these communities.
Karen Umemoto notes the importance of dispelling the myth that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are a monolithic group. With over 70 ethnic and national groups and more than 100 languages, the vibrant tapestry of the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities is on full display, enriching the nationโs cultural landscape.