May marks Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage (AANHPI) Month, a national observance recognizing the histories, cultures and contributions of AANHPI communities across the United States. This year's theme, announced by the Federal Asian Pacific American Council, is “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together.â€
“This year's theme highlights the importance of leveraging our collective power, telling our stories, and being bridge builders in our communities,†FAPAC said in a statement.
“The imagery of the bridge in this year's artwork inspires us to unite in our common causes. Bridges represent many values that are prevalent in AANHPI communities – innovation, resilience, hard work, connection, and a sense of belonging. FAPAC invites you to join us this May to honor the AANHPI leaders who inspire us to work collaboratively and embolden the next generation to build on their legacies.â€
This month arrives during a milestone year for the country as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. “FAPAC encourages local and national efforts to celebrate American independence, recognize the contributions of AANHPIs woven throughout American history, and create opportunities for volunteerism and public service as a commitment to give back to our communities,†the organization said.
The origins of AANHPI Heritage Month date back nearly five decades. On June 30, 1977, the 95th Congress introduced a series of joint resolutions proposing that a week in May be designated to commemorate the accomplishments of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The House of Representatives introduced three resolutions calling for the first 10 days of May to be recognized as “Pacific/Asian American Heritage Week.†Congress later passed the resolution, directing the president to issue a proclamation designating the week beginning May 4, 1979, as “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.†More than a decade later, on May 7, 1990, President George H.W. Bush issued a proclamation designating May 1990 as the first “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.†In 1992, Congress passed legislation permanently recognizing May as “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.â€
Today, AANHPI Heritage Month is observed nationwide through cultural festivals, educational programs, performances and community gatherings, celebrations that reflect both the diversity and shared experiences of AANHPI communities. Across the Inland Empire, local organizations and colleges are hosting events throughout the month.Â
The San Bernardino County Museum will host a Mahjong event at 10 a.m. May 26 as part of its Chinese Pioneers exhibition. Sessions are two hours and cost $60 per person. Additional information is available through organizer Eliana Zacarias at Eliana.Zacarias@sbcm.sbcounty.gov.
In Banning, the Malki Museum, Kewet, will host a gathering Sunday, May 24, featuring bird singing and dancing, a traditional pit barbecue lunch at noon, Native American veteran recognitions, arts and crafts, fry bread and cultural performances. For more information, call 951-849-7289.
But for many, celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month extends beyond scheduled events. Residents can support local AAPI-owned restaurants and markets, read works by AAPI authors or visit cultural exhibits throughout the region — small acts of participation that echo this year's theme of connection, visibility and community.
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