Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month This May 

Since 1992, May has been designated as the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. According to Reader’s Digest, “The month was specifically chosen to commemorate the first Japanese immigrant to arrive in the United States. on May 7, 1843, as well as the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869.”  

The term “Asian American” was first used in 1968 to encourage a shared sense of identity among individuals of Asian origins, and in recent years has been used as a call for collective activism. As stated by History, “The AAPI umbrella term includes cultures from the entire Asian continent – including East, Southeast, and South Asian—and the Pacific Islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia.” The AAPI community includes over 50 ethnicities and individuals who speak more than 100 languages.  

While one of the smallest ethnic and racial groups across the U.S., the Asian (non-Hispanic) population in Santa Clara County (SCC) is the fastest growing group. Research from USA Facts shows that from 2010 to 2022, the Asian (non-Hispanic) segment of the population increased to 40.7% of the total population in SCC.  

As many residents of  SCC may identify as one of the AAPI ethnic identities, AAPI Heritage Month is a great way to celebrate the unique cultures and heritage of many of our colleagues, friends, and neighbors. Some ways to observe AAPI Heritage Month includes buying from an AAPI-owned business, eating at an AAPI owned restaurant, participating in AAP-related community events, or even watching an AAPI film or TV show.  

This May, acknowledge the cultural diversity and nuance that exists within the AAPI community, as well as  recognize all the sacrifices made by past and present Asian American and Pacific Islander immigrants. 

To learn about other ways to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, speak with a Community Resource Specialist: (408) 350-3200, option 1.