Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month is celebrated annually in the United States during the month of May. It is at a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.
The celebrations of AAPI Month date back to 1978, when President Jimmy Carter signed a joint resolution designating the first week of May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Week. In 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed a bill that extended the celebration to the entire month of May, officially designating it as AAPI Month.
The AAPI community includes people from a wide variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds, including those with roots in East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific Islands. The month is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of this community and to recognize the challenges that AAPI individuals and communities have faced, including discrimination, exclusion, and prejudice.
Throughout the month of May, there are various events and activities held across the country to celebrate AAPI culture and history. These may include festivals, parades, art exhibitions, concerts, and film screenings. It is also a time to educate others about the AAPI experience and to promote greater understanding and appreciation of the AAPI community.
The term “Asia-Pacific” typically refers to a broad region that encompasses countries located in both Asia and the Pacific region. The following countries are generally considered to be part of the Asia-Pacific region:
Australia; Brunei; Cambodia; China; Fiji; Indonesia; Japan; Kiribati; Laos; Malaysia; Marshall Islands; Micronesia; Mongolia; Myanmar (Burma); Nauru; New Zealand; North Korea; Palau; Papua New Guinea; Philippines; Samoa; Singapore; Solomon Islands; South Korea; Taiwan; Thailand; Timor-Leste (East Timor); Tonga; Tuvalu; Vanuatu; Vietnam
As we welcome the month of May, we look forward to honoring and celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander Month and all members of the AAPI community!
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