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The History of the Month of May

How did it begin?

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month began in 1990 to commemorate the first Japaese immigrant to the United States in May of the year 1843, and to celebrate the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10th, 1869. The majority of the track layers were Chinese immigrants, therefore the month of May was chosen for Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month. Even before 1990, the US recognized the need for a heritage appreciation, and there was a “Heritage Week” for the first ten days in May. Even though the celebration of Asian and Pacific heritage has changed it's ways over time, it's purpose stays the same. From day, to week, to ten days, to month, Asian Pacific Heritage is an important thing to observe and celebrate.

Other Events In History

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have also accomplished many things in closer to modern times. Many Asian Americans are working for NASA, proving that race and ethnicity do not make a difference in mental or physical capacity. Asian/Pacific Americans have accumulated a lot of hate from others over the past few decades, and the heritage month of May has been doing a lot to stop it. The month is educating people about the amazing feats that Asian/Pacific Americans have completed for our country, and hopefully that would be enough to show America how Asian/Pacific Americans must be celebrated.

Did you know?

Did you know that Asian/Pacific American Heritage has been celebrated for over 40 years? Or that it was started with president Jimmy Carter in 1978? How about the fact that there are huge festivals every year that YOU can attend? Or finally that PBS has documentaries on Asian/Pacific American Heritage?

A Quote

"In a time of destruction, create something." - Maxine Hong Kingston