Every May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Bet you didn’t know that it was originally a week and President Jimmy Carter was the one who designated it into law in 1978. In 1990 George Bush extended it to an entire month and in 2009 Obama changed the name to its current one. AAPI are the fastest growing group in the United States according to the Pew Research Center. Here are some ways to support the AAPI communities not just this month but all year long.
1. Frequent AAPI owned businesses
2. Learn the difference between Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders
3. Read books written by AAPI authors
4. Visit an AAPI History Museum
5. Learn how to pronounce common Asian names
6. Help stop violence against AAPI
7. Fight for salary gaps in the work place
8. Support AAPI curriculums in schools
9. Teach children about racism and diversity
During the pandemic Asian hate grew around the world. It’s especially important to help these communities feel safer through our actions. This year’s theme is “Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity” to help elevate AAPI careers. On social media use some AAPI hashtags when promoting their heritage this month.
