Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM) is observed every May in the United States to recognize and celebrate the contributions, history, and culture of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). This month-long celebration provides a valuable opportunity for workplaces to acknowledge their team members' diverse backgrounds and talents, promote inclusion, and foster a sense of community.
The origins of APAHM can be traced back to the late 1970s. The idea for a dedicated celebration to honor the achievements and contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans began to gain momentum during this period, primarily due to the efforts of community advocates and politicians.
In 1977, U.S. Representatives Frank Horton of New York and Norman Mineta of California introduced a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to proclaim the first ten days of May as Asian-Pacific Heritage Week. In 1990, Congress expanded the observance from a week to a month. President George H.W. Bush signed a bill into law that extended the celebration to the entire month of May. In 1992, the designation of May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month was made permanent by law. This recognition was an acknowledgment of the growing influence and contributions of the AAPI community in various fields, such as science, arts, politics, and culture.
May was chosen for the celebration to commemorate two significant historical events:
The Arrival of the First known Japanese Immigrants in the United States on May 7, 1843, and the Completion of the Transcontinental Railroad. On May 10, 1869, the transcontinental railroad was completed, mainly through the efforts of Chinese laborers who significantly contributed to its construction under challenging and often dangerous conditions.
Why it is Essential to Celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in the workplace promotes diversity, fosters inclusion, and creates a positive work environment. It benefits AAPI team members and the organization by enhancing cultural awareness, boosting morale, and encouraging innovation. By recognizing and honoring the contributions of the AAPI community, workplaces can build stronger, more cohesive, and more equitable teams.
Overall, the diversity within the workplace is expanding. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that:
- Asians comprise approximately 6% of the U.S. workforce as of 2021.
- Among Asians participating in the labor force, the largest group was Asian Indians, making up 25 percent of all Asians. Chinese made up 22 percent, followed by Filipinos (15 percent), Vietnamese (10 percent), Koreans (7 percent), and Japanese (4 percent). The remainder—18 percent—were classified as Other Asians, a category that includes individuals in an Asian group not listed above—such as Pakistani, Cambodian, Hmong, etc.—and those who were of two or more Asian groups.
- From 2003 to 2022, the Asian population aged 16 and older grew by 84 percent, from 9.2 million to 16.9 million. That was a significantly higher growth rate than the population, which increased 19 percent. From 2003 to 2022, the share of Asians in the U.S. population grew from 4 percent to 6 percent. Over the same period, the population of Native Hawaiians and Other Pacific Islanders increased by 119 percent, from 511,000 to 1.1 million.
- A significant proportion of Asians are employed in management, professional, and related occupations (54.7% as of 2020), which is higher than the national average for all workers.
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month serves as a reminder of the diverse and dynamic contributions of the AAPI community to the fabric of American society. It is a time for reflection, education, and celebration, ensuring that the legacy of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans is recognized and honored. By understanding the history and significance of this observance, we can better appreciate the rich cultural tapestry that makes up the United States.
Actions Organizations Can Take to Celebrate Asian American Heritage Month
Organizations can take several actions to honor and celebrate Asian American Heritage Month, here are a few examples:
Educational Workshops and Seminars:
Organize events focusing on the history and contributions of the AAPI community. Invite guest speakers from various AAPI backgrounds to share their experiences.
Cultural Celebrations:
Host events showcasing traditional music, dance, and art from different AAPI cultures.
Encourage team members to share their cultural traditions and personal stories. Arrange a food festival featuring cuisines from different Asian and Pacific Islander cultures.
Partner with local AAPI-owned businesses for catering or food stalls.
Book and Film Discussions:
Curate a list of books and films by AAPI authors and filmmakers.
Host discussion groups to explore these works and gain diverse perspectives.
Highlighting AAPI team members:
Use internal communication channels to spotlight AAPI team members and their contributions.
Share interviews, articles, or video features of AAPI team members’ personal stories.
Charity and Volunteering:
Encourage participation in charity events or volunteering with AAPI-focused organizations. Organize fundraising or resource drives to benefit AAPI communities.
Training and Development:
Provide diversity and inclusion training focusing on understanding and supporting the AAPI community. Address topics such as unconscious bias, microaggressions, and allyship.
Team member Resource Groups (ERGs):
Establish or support an AAPI team member Resource Group. Offer a platform for AAPI team members to share experiences and advocate for their needs.
Community Partnerships:
Partner with local AAPI organizations to support their initiatives. Sponsor community events or offer organizational resources to support their activities.
By taking these actions, organizations can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for their AAPI team members while educating and engaging the broader workforce in meaningful ways.
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