May is rich in reasons to celebrate, including Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, an annual tribute to the cultural and historical contributions of Asians and Pacific Islanders to the diverse tapestry of the United States. In common with the other commemorative months, the yearly celebration originated in Congress. In 1992, Congress passed Public Law 102-450, which designated May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. May was specifically chosen for two reasons: it coincides with the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States in May, 1843; and the Transcontinental Railroad was completed on May 10, 1869, a feat largely achieved through the back breaking labor of 20,000 Chinese immigrants. The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) announced that the theme for the May 2024 observance is "Advancing Leaders Through Innovation.” "Advancing Leaders Through Innovation," pays homage to the visionaries and trailblazers who have shaped our history and continue to influence our collective futures. Click here to learn more about FAPAC and the annual theme; click here to learn more about the history of the celebration from the Library of Congress; and click on the book jackets below to be taken to links in our catalog. Read more, learn more, appreciate more.
“Dream with ambition, lead with conviction, and see yourself in a way that others might not see you, simply because they’ve never seen it before.” Kamala Harris
“To live an ethical life is to be held accountable for history.” Cathy Park Hong
Last Modified May 01, 2024