Headline: GA celebrates celebrates with speakers and a carnival, and recognizes the incredible impact that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have had on our country’s history and culture.
The beginning of May marks the start of AAPI Heritage Month, a celebration of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and their history in the U.S. It began as a 10-day long celebration in 1977 and was later recognized by President George H. W. Bush as Asian American Pacific Islander Month in 1992.
The month of May is significant in Asian American history because it symbolizes the month in which the first Japanese immigrants arrived in the U.S. in 1843, as well as the month of the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869, which had been primarily built by Chinese immigrants.
This year, the Asian American Student Association, known as the AASA, worked to provide a fun-filled celebration for AAPI month. University of Pennsylvania professor Dr. Fariah Khan was brought in to speak during community time about the history of Asian Americans. The event was made even more special with a diverse amount of Asian food available during flex, and with members of the club hosting stands with various traditional Asian games like Carrom, spinning top, and Jianzi. The AASA club members worked hard to organize the celebration, and the GA community was able to learn about Asian culture while enjoying the festivities.
AAPI Heritage Month honors important contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. Despite long-standing stereotypes portraying Asian Americans as foreign to the U.S., AAPI people have made significant contributions to American culture and society: in 2021, Kamala Harris became the first Asian American Vice President; in the film industry, movies such as Marvel’s Shang-Chi have brought AAPI people into the spotlight; AAPI people have also made countless contributions to technology, atomic science, civil rights, and so much more.
During May, the GA community honors the traditions and cultures of Asian Americans by embracing inclusivity and educating ourselves about the diverse customs, languages, and histories of Asian culture. We are encouraged to attend cultural events, engage with Asian American communities, and support Asian American businesses. Ultimately, it is important to have respect for and honor the traditions and culture of Asian Americans during this time, as it will inform our awareness and help all of us connect to the experiences of AAPI communities throughout the year.