May: A time to celebrate and raise awareness of Asian Pacific Americans

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM) celebrates the accomplishments and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. This national recognition helps to garner awareness for a minority often underrepresented in American culture.

Today, Asian and Pacific Islanders make up around 4% of the total population in Texas. However, they are the fastest growing racial group in the state, with nearly 30% more growth than the closest ethnicity group. America is enriched through the contributions of Asian Americans, and the country will continue to grow through their relentless dedication.

APAHM first began as a week to recognize and commemorate Asian culture. Years later, the cause expanded to a month under a presidential proclamation by George H.W. Bush in 1990. The month of May was chosen for two reasons. The initial emigration of Japanese immigrants to the United States began in May. May also marks the completion of the transcontinental railroad, completed by the immeasurable contribution of Chinese Americans. The 31 days of May recognize the extensive diversity of Asian and Pacific Islander culture, from China to Laos, Pakistan to Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan to Fiji. These cultures are all so unique, and impossible to merely lump them all into the span of a week. The month allows for anyone from any Asian or Pacific Island region to have a voice, to feel heard, to celebrate.

One of America's top exports is our culture of television and film. Unfortunately, Hollywood has a long history of whitewashing films, casting white actors in the roles of ethnic characters.  While 44 of the 100 top American films lack a single line from an Asian character, things seem to be changing. In recent years, there have been several examples of progressive Asian and Pacific Islander representation to be proud of. Disney’s Moana, Aziz Ansari’s hit Netflix show “Master of None,” ABC’s “Off the Boat,” and indie rom com “The Big Sick,” are all stories lead by Asian characters. These television shows and movies not only provide nuanced representation, they also bring forth different perspectives of the unique struggles of the Asian experience. In each case, empathy and understanding replace cultural ignorance. That is why representation is so important.

Texas is a great state, made even better through the diverse people who call it home. As the month of May is coming to a close and events around the state recognizing APAHM dwindle, do not let yourself forget about the countless contributions that Asian Americans have brought to this country. Celebrate diversity when and however you can.