The month of May is considered Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Its purpose is to recognize the important contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders to the culture and history of the United States. It is important to know why and how this celebration came about, the importance of the holiday, and how Apex High has chosen to celebrate.

The history of AAPI Month goes back to 1977, when Representative Frank Horton introduced a resolution that would make the first ten days of May Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. The month of May was chosen for AAPI Month because it is when the first Japanese people immigrated to the United States (May 7, 1843).  Both the House and Senate passed the resolution, and President Jimmy Carter signed it into law. The observance of this holiday was expanded from one week to one month in 1990. 

AAPI Month is important in celebrating the achievements of Asian Americans as well as the impact they have had on society, whether it be in science and medicine, music and art, government and politics, or history and law. Each year, there is a theme assigned to AAPI Month meant to highlight certain aspects of AAPI heritage. This month is “Advancing Leaders Through Innovation.” That means that there will be a focus on the advancements that several AAPI people have made throughout history.

AAPI Heritage Month is celebrated at Apex in many ways. We have several clubs, like the AAPI Club and the Asian Student Association that create a space for AAPI people to gather and discuss their experiences and interests, and learn more about their cultures. After speaking with Semi Choi, the president and founder of the AAPI Club, she has informed me of a lot of things about the club, its purpose, and the plans they have for celebrating. She formed the AAPI Club because she wanted to “create a space where more people could be involved” from all different backgrounds. She loves hearing everyone’s stories and personal experiences about being AAPIs and fostering a community and platform where everyone can share and enjoy their cultures. For her, AAPI Month is important because it honors and makes her feel connected to her own heritage. The club will be putting on an AAPI Heritage Month celebration during lunch on May 3, 2024. 

Students should all see the importance of AAPI Heritage Month and use it as an opportunity to learn more about AAPI people and their stories.