Community Celebrations: AAPI Heritage Month
Many people of Asian American and Pacific Islander descent live in Burlington. How can we celebrate this vibrant community?
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is designated for the entire month of May and is meant to celebrate the culture and influence of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans in the United States. About 14.5% of Burlington’s population is of Asian decent, a little more than double the proportion in Massachusetts overall, according to 2022 U.S. Census Data.
The observance was first established as an Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week in 1978 by a joint resolution in 1970. It was later extended to a month and eventually became the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month after a designation by President George H. W. Bush. May was chosen to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the U.S. in May 1843 and the completion of transcontinental railroad in May 1869, which was largely built by Chinese immigrants.
There are a number of ways people observe AAPI Heritage month, with various events geared at showcasing the diverse cultures that make up the AAPI community in the U.S.
Learn More About AAPI Heritage Month
This list of resources will grow as community members contribute. Send recommendations to hello@burlington.buzz.
Hear historian Ellen Wu as she recounts the events leading up to the current iteration of AAPI Heritage Month, including inspiration from the Black Freedom Movement and the anti-war movement.
Recommended Watching and Reading
- Here is a list from PBS of kid-friendly books to read with your children to celebrate AAPI heritage.
- The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences compiled a list of movies to watch from AAPI creatives.
Where to Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month in and Around Burlington
Below are just a few events happening nearby to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month in Burlington and nearby 2024. Let us know if you have one you’d like to add!
Cary Memorial Library in Lexington is hosting an art and writing exhibit now through June 14 and will be holding a storytelling reception on May 30 at 6:30 PM.
The Asian American Civic Association is hosting its Gala of Dreams on June 14 in Boston. Tickets are on sale now.
How do you and your family observe AAPI Heritage Month? What resources would help your neighbors and their children and grandchildren learn more about this holiday? Share your stories with us by emailing hello@burlington.buzz, and your story could be added to this feature!
What are you celebrating or observing? Let us know at hello@burlington.buzz!, and your story could be featured in Community Celebrations.
