May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Originally established in 1978 as Asian/Pacific Heritage Week, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions of the AAPI community to the culture and history of the United States.
Both the Library of Congress and the National Archives provide a wealth of online materials including educational resources for teachers, access to historical collections and art exhibits, audio and video tools, social media strategies, research links, and information on upcoming programs and events. Details on a number of local activities and events in support of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month can be accessed here.
In St. Paul, Theater Mu, the second largest Asian American theater arts organization in the nation, will focus its “New Eye’s Festival” this year in response to the rising hate, discrimination, and violence that has been perpetrated against the AAPI community during the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s festival, which runs from May 21 through May 29, and consists of a series of original ten-minute plays, is completely virtual and free to view. To RSVP for one or all of these performances, click here.
Another community-based initiative to address the increase in pandemic-related hate is “Minnesota Rice.” A collaborative effort by members of the Twin Cities’ culinary community, the purpose of Minnesota Rice is to raise awareness about AAPI Hate and its clarion call asks that fellow Minnesotans “Love our people like you love our food.” For more information on how to support Minnesota Rice and the effort to stop AAPI hate, please visit them online at haihaimpls.com/minnesota-rice.
