The History and Significance of AAPI Month 2023

What's the history behind AAPI Month?

• Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is a commemorative event celebrated each May. AAPI Month pays homage to the historical and cultural contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and raises awareness about current issues facing their communities.
• May was chosen for AAPI Heritage Month because it marks two significant events in AAPI history: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the U.S. on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, which was built largely by Chinese immigrants. 
• In 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed a bill to dedicate the entire month of May to Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage.

Why does it matter?

• AAPI Month goes beyond recognition and education about the AAPI community's history, culture, and traditions. 
• In 2023, amidst rising hate crimes, the month-long event serves as a call to stand in solidarity with the AAPI community and against ignorance, misinformation, and bigotry. 
• The month is a time to tell and listen to the stories of those who identify as AAPI and start conversations to learn about the AAPI experience in the U.S. 
• Asian Americans are the fastest-growing racial group in the U.S. However, according to a Social Tracking of Asian Americans in the U.S. (STAATUS) Index survey, Asian Americans, particularly young women, are the least likely to feel a sense of complete belonging and acceptance in the U.S.

How to celebrate AAPI month

• While May is coming to an end, there's still plenty of time to honor AAPI stories, especially after the month wraps. 
• The National Archives holds a wealth of material documenting the AAPI experience through online resources, programs, art, and more. View its exhibits, collections, events, digital art, youth resources, and more here. 
• Lastly, you can help break through the barriers the AAPI community faces with one simple step: a vote. Your vote is your voice, and it's important to have that voice heard during this year's statewide elections.

Voting resources

Register to vote:

Verify your registration:

Get an absentee ballot:

Under 18? Pledge to register to vote:

Do you care about AAPI issues? Be sure to vote!

-Laura Woods & Jamie Epstein

(Photo credit: Unsplash)