May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage
Month in the US, a celebration of these communities and the contributions they
have made to American history and culture. May is designated AAPI Heritage
Month because of two historic events that happened in May for the AAPI
Community. In May of 1843, the first
Japanese Immigrants arrived in the US, and in May of 1869, the first
transcontinental railroad in the US was completed with significant efforts from
Chinese workers. This month provides us the chance to celebrate and learn about
the traditions, history and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific
Islanders.
This month is also an opportunity for our community to raise
awareness about the challenges facing many AAPI communities in regards to
immigration, racism and hate crimes. Through awareness, our community can
encourage education and empathy, and bolster positive changes.
According to the most recent US Census data, over 24 million
Americans identify as Asian. This comprises almost 8% of the total population,
and are the fastest growing population in the US.
Remembering Diversity
Although the umbrella terms “Asian American” and “Pacific
Islander” have been important political identities for peoples of these
descents in their fight for civil rights, it is important to remember that many
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are far more likely to identify with
their national origins or ethnicity rather than race. This is because umbrella terms
inevitably create overgeneralized views of shared experiences, and can lead to
attributing stereotypes based on those views. Therefore, it is critical to
recognize the various countries, cultures and backgrounds AAPI’s represent,
while also appreciating traditions, foods, music and art that enrich our
communities.
Important Contributions
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have enriched numerous
aspects of American culture and society. A few that come to mind for many could
be Jim Lee or Ke Huy Quan in the arts, Ichiro Suzuki or Michelle Kwan in
Sports, or Kamala Harris or Judy Chu in Politics.
However, let us take a moment to focus on a few individuals
and organizations who have made considerable impacts in the arenas of civil
rights and public service.
Yuri
Kochiyama a Japanese-American civil rights activist. After her family’s
experience in an American internment camp, she became instrumental in
campaigning for reparations due to interned Japanese-Americans during World War
II. Her work came to fruition, when Ronald Reagan signed the Civil Liberties
Act into law. She also advocated for the
rights of political prisoners, and worked alongside Malcom X during the Civil
Rights Movement.
Kearny Street
Workshop the oldest nonprofit organization addressing Asian American issues
in San Francisco. Founded by Jim Don, Lora Joh Foo and Mike Chin in the 1970’s.
Originally focused on Chinese American arts and activism, the workshop expanded
to host a multiethnic community by offering classes and workshops for Asian
American activists. This organization
also acted as a safe haven to practice various arts, such as photography,
writing, and it is most well-known silkscreen printing. This solidified the
Kearny Street Workshop as an establishment of great community value, by
enriching the surrounding neighborhoods.
Patsy
Mink the first Asian American woman elected to Congress. During her time as
a Congresswoman, she consistently risked her political career fighting for the
rights and betterment of Asian Americans, women and children. She introduced
the Early Childhood Education Act, authored the Women’s Educational Equity Act,
and was an important voice in the enactment of Title IX of the Higher Education
Act Amendments, which prohibited gender discrimination by federally-funded
institutions.
Closing thoughts
Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month is the
perfect time to celebrate the contributions and influences that the diversity
of AAPI communities have had on American Culture. By recognizing the obstacles
and commemorating achievements of APPI individuals, we reinforce our commitment
to fostering a more inclusive society for all.