May 1, 2024: Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month
By Tebraie Banda-Johns, Director of the Intercultural Center
Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month is an annual celebration that honors the historical and cultural contributions of individuals and groups with Asian, Hawaiian and Pacific Islander heritage in the United States. The AANHPI umbrella term encompasses cultures from the entire Asian continent, including East, Southeast and South Asia, Hawaii, as well as the Pacific Islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia.
The 2024 theme for AANHPI Heritage Month is “Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future” presented by the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders and the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center.
AANHPI Heritage Month in May holds special significance due to two pivotal historical events: the immigration of the first Japanese people to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on Golden Spike Day, May 10, 1869, which was built with significant contributions from Chinese workers.
AANHPI Heritage Month evolved from Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, established by Congress in 1978. President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the first observance in 1979, spanning seven days starting on May 4. In 1990, Congress extended it to a month, and in 1992, May officially became Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month. It was later renamed AAPI Heritage Month in 2009.
AANHPI Heritage Month is celebrated from Wednesday, May 1 to Friday, May 31. To commemorate Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander identity and culture during May, the Intercultural Center invites you to celebrate with us at the Asian Night Market this Friday, May 3 at 6 p.m. on the Reid Campus Center side lawn. (Flyer attached.)
Night markets, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, are lively and bustling events known for their diverse array of street food, entertainment, and social gatherings. Join us for an evening of performances, an evening movie night and delicious food as we celebrate the vibrant AANHPI community! To learn more about night markets around the world, click here.
