Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is observed on May 1st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you might want to know about Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

📅 What day is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2024?

In 2024, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is on Monday, May 1st. It is the 1st Monday in May; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the fun details and facts about May 1, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Every year in May, the United States recognizes Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This month serves as a reminder of the value we place on immigration and our belief in the American ideal. John F. Kennedy once famously said that our attitude towards immigration reflects our faith in this ideal. It is important to embrace and celebrate the diverse cultural contributions of immigrants from various backgrounds. To promote awareness and appreciation for Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures, numerous activities are organized, including events in the media, theaters, museums, and parks. In order to demonstrate respect for immigrants from different ethnicities, we should assist them in finding appropriate scholarships, both within the United States and internationally, to aid them in pursuing their chosen paths.

📜 Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month History

In 1587, Filipinos were the first known Asians to arrive in America when they landed in California. It is believed that a young Japanese child also arrived in North America during the same year, accompanied by a Franciscan monk.

The first Chinese immigrants arrived in Hawaii in 1778, followed by the first Koreans in 1884. The first Samoans were reported in Hawaii in 1920, and the first Vietnamese in 1912.

The idea of honoring Asian Pacific Americans was introduced by Jeanie Jew, a former congressional staffer, to Representative Frank Horton in the 1970s. A resolution was filed by Horton and Norman Y. Mineta in the United States House of Representatives in June 1977, declaring the first ten days of May as Asian-Pacific Heritage Week. A similar bill was filed in the Senate a month later.

President Jimmy Carter signed a joint resolution on October 5, 1978, officially recognizing the then-week-long event. In 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed legislation expanding Asian-Pacific Heritage Week to a month and designating May as Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month.

✅ Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Facts

🔖 Aloha is not a simple “Hello”
The Spirit of Aloha is a principle that all Hawaiians, including visitors, must follow and honor by showing kindness and positivity towards one another.

🔖 New ‘home’ states

🔖 The Chinese arrived first
During the mid-1800s, Chinese immigrants came to the United States with the purpose of contributing to the construction of railroads and engaging in gold mining activities.

👍 Why Is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Important

Asian American immigrants and Pacific Islanders make significant contributions to the US economy. This is the time to acknowledge how they have benefited our communities.

Events and activities provide a glimpse into the rich cultures of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

Celebrations like these help keep the healthy dialogue between races alive.

🙂 How To Observe Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

⚡ Travel back to your roots
Stay in touch with your relatives and explore your family history. Don’t forget to record your personal memories in a journal and construct a family tree. It will be a cherished legacy for the future generation!

⚡ Cook a traditional recipe
Indulge in a culinary journey of diverse cultures right in your own kitchen! Begin with the finest, locally-sourced ingredients and treat yourself to a delectable selection of Asian or Hawaiian dishes.

⚡ Join the social media celebrations
You don’t need to identify as Asian American or Pacific Islander to join in on the social media activities. If you have a friend or neighbor who belongs to these communities, you can tag them in your posts about the day.

📅 When is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month?

Explore all 🔗 May holidays, including 🔗 Cause and other 🔗 Historical holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. So be sure to check back soon.