May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI Heritage Month). It celebrates the strength, tenacity, resilience and contributions of AANHPI people in America. AANHPI individuals are diverse, with different backgrounds, identities and abilities.
This important month got its roots from 1977 to 1978. During this time, Congress established the first 10 days of May as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Week. In 1979, it commenced as a week-long event and was extended to the full month 13 years later.
Continue reading our AANHPI Cultural Connection Toolkit for more stories about the accomplishments and challenges of AANHPI people, facts and figures and a timeline of events.