Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month

May is AAPI Heritage Month, and it's a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions, culture, and achievements of the AAPI community. The term AAPI stands for Asian American and Pacific Islander. It is used to refer to individuals in the United States who trace their ancestry to the Asian continent or to the islands of the Pacific Ocean, including Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, and other Pacific Island territories.

When many think of AAPI communities, they think of people from or that have descended from South Asia, East Asia, South East Asia, and the Pacific Islands. However, AAPI also includes West and Southwest Asia (commonly referred to as the Middle East in the U.S.).

AAPI Heritage Month is important because it gives us a chance to recognize the contributions of the AAPI community to American history and culture. From building the transcontinental railroad to leading social justice movements, AAPI individuals have significantly shaped our country's past and present. Teaching our children about these contributions can promote a more inclusive and accurate understanding of American history.

One way to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month is by exploring the diverse cultures and traditions of the AAPI community. Teachers can create lesson plans that showcase the arts, music, and literature of different AAPI cultures. Parents can introduce their children to traditional foods, dress, and customs from various Asian and Pacific Islander countries. Another way to celebrate is by highlighting AAPI leaders and trailblazers in different fields. This can inspire children to dream big and realize they can achieve anything they set their minds.

Lastly, we can celebrate AAPI Heritage Month by promoting understanding and acceptance of diversity. We can also teach them about the impact of racism and discrimination on the AAPI community and how we can work to eliminate these injustices. Our Bookshop has over 90 books (and growing!) on AAPI culture to help your children learn and appreciate the various cultures, religions, and perspectives of Asian & Pacific Island regions. By fostering an environment of understanding and respect, we can help create a brighter and more inclusive future for all.