Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is observed every May to honor the rich culture, traditions, and achievements of the AAPI community. It’s also a time to celebrate AAPI culture through the exploration of art, music, food, and more. While the contributions, accomplishments, and culture of the community should be acknowledged and celebrated all everyday, this month serves as a time during which many organizations host special events and make their resources more readily available. With the rise in hate crimes towards Asian Americans in recent years, spending time learning about the community has never been more important. We’ve compiled a list of ways to help get you started celebrating this APPI Heritage Month.
Explore AAPI Heritage
- Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Celebration at Farmington Community Library on May 4th
- The Honey and the Hive AAPI book discussion at the Bowen branch of the Detroit Public Library on May 11th from 11 AM – 12 PM
- Warren’s Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month Event on May 11th from 2-5 PM
- Bravespace a collection from the Smithsonian’s Asian Pacific American Center
- Ann Arbor District Library is hosting a variety of events throughout the month
- Check out APPI events at the DIA
- Check out virtual programming from Unexpected Virtual Tours & Training (an Asian American-founded company)
Learn AAPI History
- Visit the History Channel’s AAPI Archive
- Stream Asian Americans from PBS
- Read about the history of Hawaii
Buy From AAPI-Owned Business
- AAPI-Owned Businesses in Ann Arbor and Metro Detroit
- Detroit’s APPI Small Businesses
- 90+ AAPI-Owned Businesses to Support
AAPI Organizations to Support
- Asian Americans Advancing Justice
- National Council of Asian Pacific Americans
- Southeast Asia Resource Action Center
- Stop AAPI Hate
Other Ways to Support
- Research AAPI history and culture in your community.
- Read AAPI literature.
- Support AAPI artists and musicians.
Most importantly keep learning and reflecting and remember that the challenges AAPI communities face are ongoing, not just history. Incorporate anti-racism and anti-colonialism into everyday action, not just during AAPI Heritage Month.
