May

Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month

From the National Archives EEO Special Observances Page

May: Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month

Authority: Executive Order 13339

The roots of Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month can be traced back to 1976, when Jeanie Jew, President of the Organization of Chinese American Women, contacted government officials in response to the lack of Asian Pacific representation in the U.S. bicentennial celebrations that same year. The observance began in 1979 as Asian Heritage Week, established by congressional proclamation. In May 1990, the holiday was expanded further when President George Bush signed a proclamation making it month-long for that year. On October 23, 1992, Bush signed legislation designating May of every year Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. The month of May was chosen to commemorate two significant events in history: the immigration of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869 (Golden Spike Day). The diversity and common experiences of the many ethnic groups are celebrated during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with numerous community festivals as well as government-sponsored activities.

Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month ResourcesAsian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is a celebration of the culture, traditions and history of Asian American and Pacific Islander people in the United States. Use these resources to teach and commemorate this heritage in school, communities and at home.

Celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage MonthMay is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Use these resources to celebrate the diverse experiences of AAPI students and effectively teach AAPI history—this month and throughout the year.

APANOAsian Pacific American Network of Oregon

Asian Pacific American Heritage MonthCelebrate generations of Asian Pacific American Heritage and History with PBS.