In the United States, May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month. Since 1977, this special month pays tribute to the generations of Asians and Pacific Islanders who have been an important part of American society and culture.
With racist anti-Asian sentiment growing with the outbreak of Covid-19 across the world, it is more important than ever to stand together in solidarity.
According to the official website, this month celebrates those from Asia and the Pacific islands of:
- Melanesia – New Guinea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji and the Solomon Islands
- Micronesia – Marianas, Guam, Wake Island, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru and the Federated States of Micronesia
- Polynesia – New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Rotuma, Midway Islands, Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Easter Island
Lockdown doesn’t have to stop us from celebrating, here are some great ways to celebrate Asian Pacific Heritage (AAPI) month from home:
- Have a dance party to the AAPI Spotify playlist
- Join author, Cathy Park Hong’s virtual book club on the 27th May
- Watch a live stream concert of the Taiwanese percussion group, Ten Drum on the 22nd May
- Whip up a feast with a live Mapo Tofu cook along with chef Lucas Shin on 26th May
Happy Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month!
