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Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month is a time dedicated to celebrating the customs, traditions, contributions, and achievements of the AANHPI community.
May is designated as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the United States. This month-long celebration honors the heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have significantly shaped American history and culture. The first Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Week was observed in 1978, and in 1992, it was expanded to a month-long observance.
History and Significance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Jeanie Jew, a fourth-generation Chinese American and congressional staffer, is considered to be the founder of Asian Pacific American Week, as it was known at the time, in 1976. She brought the idea to New York House Representative Frank Horton. Horton then partnered with California House Representative Norman Y. Mineta to bring the bill to the House floor in June 1977.
One month later, Senators Daniel Inouye and Spark Matsunaga of Hawaii introduced a similar bill into the Senate.
On October 31st, 1978, after passing through the House and Senate, President Jimmy Carter signed a joint resolution for the celebration, officially recognizing it as law. George H.W. Bush extended the holiday through the entire month of May in 1992.
May was chosen to commemorate the month that the first Japanese immigrants arrived in the United States, which took place in May of 1843. It also marks the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, which was finished on May 10, 1869. Over 15,000 Chinese laborers worked on the project, enduring difficult working conditions and low pay, while contributing an invaluable service to the country.
Customs and Traditions
Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage encompasses a wide range of cultures, customs, and traditions. For example, the Japanese tea ceremony, or Chanoyu, is a traditional ritual that emphasizes the importance of harmony, respect, and tranquility. The tea ceremony has been practiced for centuries and has become a popular cultural practice around the world.
Similarly, the Samoan fire knife dance, or Siva Afi, is a traditional Samoan dance that involves the use of a sharp knife or “ailao afi.” This dance is performed during special occasions and celebrations and is a symbol of strength, courage, and skill.
Contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to American Society
Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders have made significant contributions to American society in a variety of fields. The famous physicist and Nobel laureate, Richard Feynman, was of Chinese descent. He made major contributions to the field of quantum mechanics and played a key role in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II.
Another famous Asian American is Yuri Kochiyama, a Japanese American civil rights activist who worked closely with Malcolm X and advocated for the rights of marginalized communities. She was known for her commitment to social justice and activism, and her legacy continues to inspire people today.
Famous Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in Entertainment
Asian Americans have also made a significant impact in the entertainment industry. One of the most iconic figures is Bruce Lee, a martial arts master and actor who starred in numerous films, including Enter the Dragon. Lee is considered one of the most influential martial artists of all time and paved the way for Asian American actors in Hollywood.
Another notable Asian American entertainer is Mindy Kaling, an actress, comedian, and writer. Kaling is best known for her role in The Office and her work on The Mindy Project, and she has been a vocal advocate for diversity and representation in Hollywood.
Dwayne Johnson, the American actor of Samoan descent, is one of the most popular names in Hollywood. He found his start as a professional football player, then as a WWE wrestler, before becoming a major movie star. He has appeared in films such as Jumanji, Moana, the Fast and Furious Franchise, and Walking Tall.
How to Celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
There are many ways to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. One way is to attend cultural events that showcase the diversity and richness of Asian American and Pacific Islander culture. You could also read books or watch films that highlight the contributions of Asian Americans to American society.
Another way to celebrate is to support Asian Pacific American-owned businesses, whether it’s by dining at a local restaurant or shopping at a boutique. By supporting these businesses, you can help promote greater awareness and appreciation for this diverse community.
Importance of Learning Mandarin and Other Asian Languages
Learning Mandarin and other Asian languages can offer many benefits, both personally and professionally. For starters, it can help you communicate with people from different cultures and backgrounds, which can enhance your understanding and appreciation of other perspectives.
Second, learning Mandarin can be particularly valuable in today's global economy, as China has become one of the world's major economic powers. Knowing Mandarin can open up opportunities for business, travel, and cultural exchange, and can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
Learning an Asian language can also be a gateway to understanding the culture and customs of the people who speak that language. You can gain a deeper appreciation for their history, traditions, and way of life, and develop a greater sense of empathy and understanding.
It can also be a fun and rewarding experience. Learning a new language challenges you to think differently and expand your horizons, and can offer a sense of accomplishment and pride when you are able to communicate effectively in a new language. Whether you are interested in business, travel, or personal growth, learning an Asian language can be a valuable investment in your future.
Conclusion
In honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, there is no better time to embark on a journey of language and cultural exploration. If you're interested in learning Mandarin or other Asian languages, ReDefiners offers excellent opportunities. For Hillsborough County residents, we provide in-person classes that are completely free, thanks to the generous contributions of our monthly donors who contribute just $30 a month, as well as our supportive partners. Find out more about the ways you can support us here.
If you prefer flexibility and the chance to practice conversation with a group, our online group classes are an ideal fit. Expand your horizons, gain valuable language skills, and deepen your cultural understanding. Visit our website www.redefinerswl.com or email us at info@redefinerswl.org today to enroll in our Mandarin classes and start your language-learning journey with ReDefiners.