Asian, Pacific Islander, Desi American Heritage Month

This guide is an iterative resource that provides information and resources on the monthly celebration in May and on the generations of Asian, Pacific Islanders, and Desi Americans who have made significant and meaningful contributions to the history, culture, and society of the United States.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month was established in 1990 to mark the arrival of the first Japanese immigrant to the United States on May 7, 1843, as well as the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869 ~ From the United States Census Bureau

"APIDA is a pan-ethnic classification that intentionally includes South Asians (Desi) as part of the community along with those in the community of East Asian, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Islander heritage. APIDA represents a diverse community of more than 50 ethnic groups and includes all people of Asian, Asian American and Pacific Islander ancestry who trace their origins to the countries, states, jurisdictions and/or the diasporic communities of these geographic regions." ~ From Western Washington University