Learn the history of the culture

Together, we’re celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May. By learning about the contributions of Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders (PI), we get to know more about their impact in American history and culture.
“The origin of Asian/Pacific-American Heritage Month dates back to the 95th Congress (1977-1978) when five joint resolutions were introduced proposing that a week in May be designated to commemorate the accomplishments of Asian/Pacific Americans,” the Library of Congress (https://rb.gy/cbzjj1) informs. It was not until 1990, when President George H. W. Bush signed a bill to extend the weeklong celebration to a month.
“The month of May was chosen to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869,” explains the APAICS (https://rb.gy/li7p5s).
You can do many things to show appreciation and educate yourself on Asian-American and PI Heritage. Sites like the U.S. Department of Education (https://rb.gy/mi2gpo) and National Day Calendar (https://rb.gy/hgafce) provide many helpful things you can do during this month. You might choose to watch films about the history of the culture. There are many interesting documentaries, movies, and TV shows based around the lives of Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders.
You might also consider learning to make an Asian dish, or try a new Asian dish from a one of the many Asian restaurants nearby. It’s always fun to try new things, and eating food from different cultures is a great way to start.
Maybe you want to curl up with a good book about Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. You can check out this list of “Must-Read Books for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month” by Penguin Random House: https://rb.gy/fe9zxp.
Now that you have some ideas of how to celebrate, post and go through the social media hashtag, #AsianAmericanAndPacificIslanderMonth. What else are you going to do to celebrate?