What Is AAPI?
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month was originally a ten-day celebration that started in 1977 to celebrate the contributions made by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the USA. It was like that type of celebration until President George H.W Bush signed a contract to make the entire month of May AAPI month.
Why Is AAPI Month Important?
AAPI month is important because 6.8% of the population in the USA are Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, this is one of the fastest-growing demographic in the United States. Although this is the fastest-growing demographic the experiences and contributions of this community to the USA have been overlooked and misinterpreted for a long amount of time. Anti-Asian violence has increased drastically over the past few years and is still increasing, now more people need to be aware of this.
AAPI History
The term Asian-American was first started at the University of California by student activists in 1968 to recognize and understand challenges and experiences by the Asian-Americans. Before this term, Asian Americans were recognized by their countries such as Japanese-Americans or Indian-Americans. In conclusion, AAPI is a month to celebrate and recognize the challenges, struggles, and contributions of Asian-Americans to the USA.