May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, which recognizes the significant accomplishments and contributions made by Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to our rich history, diversity and culture. Asian-Pacific encompasses all of the Asian continent 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) and Polynesia (New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Rotuma, Midway Islands, Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia, and Easter Island).

In 1978, Congress passed a joint Congressional Resolution to recognize the first week of May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Week and in 1992, it became a permanent celebration for the month of May. This month commemorates the immigration of the first Japanese to the U.S. in May 1869. It also celebrates the achievement of thousands of Chinese laborers who helped complete the transcontinental railroad in May 1869. In honor of this month, people across the country celebrate with festivals, activities, education, and experiences.

The ASIA Society put together 31 ways to celebrate APAH Month with live webcast discussions, entertainment and activities, many of which are virtual. Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 2021 | Asia Society Check it out and celebrate throughout the month of May and beyond.