May is AAPI Heritage Month

6 min read

As we find ourselves in the midst of May, amidst blossoming flowers and balmy breezes, we continue to honor the rich heritage of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) cultures. AAPI Heritage Month is a wonderful time to delve into the diversity, resilience, and contributions of our AAPI communities! So whether you're an AAPI individual proud of your roots, a curious community member eager to learn more, or simply someone looking for ways to spread joy and inclusivity, we're here to share some historical context behind AAPI and some fun ways to celebrate culture, community, and cuisine!

Join Explore Brookhaven in celebrating Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2024!

Why May?

AAPI week was officially created in 1978 by former president Jimmy Carter.

It’s in May for two main reasons:

  • The first Japanese immigrants arrived in the United States on May 7, 1843.
  • To mark the anniversary of the transcontinental railroad's completion on May 10, 1869, primarily built by Chinese laborers.

In 1990, the celebration was expanded from a week to a month and renamed Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. In 2009, the renaming of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (to it's current designation) underscored a growing awareness of the nuanced identities and contributions within the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, signaling a broader commitment to inclusivity and representation.

Making History in Brookhaven

Recently, Brookhaven made history by electing Georgia's first Asian American mayor – Mayor John Park. Mayor Park was sworn in at the beginning of 2024 and is passionate about working with Brookhaven's community!

Young Girl's Peace Monument

This July will be the 8th anniversary of the infamous "Comfort Woman" statue put up in 2017 in Blackburn Park. The monument honors over 200,000 Asian women kidnapped and trafficked during WWII.

During the unveiling ceremony, then-Councilman Park commemorated the statues' purpose to honor the memory of those lost and "to bear witness so that these atrocities never happen again."

Learn more about the statue's history - here.

AAPI Heritage on Campus

Oglethorpe's Asian American & Pacific Islander Students in Association (ASIA) Club:

Co-Presidents Nathania Adhisty and Morgan Quatch were kind enough to answer a few questions about AAPI Heritage Month and their inspiration to start their club on Oglethorpe University's Campus:

  • What made you and Nathania start Oglethorpe's ASIA club?

Morgan: "We wanted to start an organization highlighting Oglethorpe's AAPI population and help them feel more included in the OU community. Our school has really great resources for other minority communities, but we hadn't seen any sturdy support for AAPI students. There were a lot of opportunities where we wanted to celebrate AAPI holidays and traditions and share with other ogle students!"

  • What's been your favorite experience with the club so far?

Morgan: "So far, we have hosted two iterations of our annual World Showcase, and it has been the most rewarding experience! [The World Showcase is Oglethorpe's yearly international festival in April (Images below)] We love bringing together all parts of our campus to celebrate the many cultures the OU students, staff, and faculty represent."

  • Are there any ways you suggest or personally enjoy celebrating/honoring AAPI Heritage Month in Brookhaven?

Nathania: "There will usually be a few markets or events that pop up for AAPI month around the Brookhaven area. We usually take friends and family to check those out and support local Atlanta Asian businesses. We can definitely shout them out on our Instagram when they start!" (@Ogle.Asia)

Pictured|ASIA Club Presidents - Nathania & Morgan with OU President Kathryn McClymond
Pictured|ASIA club execs - World Showcase
Pictured|Oglethorpe - World Showcase

Staff Food Faves for AAPI

Last but not least, we have to shout out a few Brookhaven restaurants. Join us in supporting our local business this month and check out your go-to AAPI restaurants, or try somewhere new below!

Have an excellent AAPI Heritage Month, and check on our Instagram @explore.Brookhaven for more upcoming events!

Author

Kena Marubu, Marketing Intern

Kena Marubu is an English major with a passion for storytelling and communication. She's currently a marketing intern with our team. When she's not immersed in writing or studying at Oglethorpe University, you can find her at a scenic Brookhaven Park or looking for a new café to relax in!
Kena Marubu

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