Asian American and Pacific islander Heritage Month has its roots in the 1970s to celebrate and recognize the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans in U.S. history, culture, and politics. May was selected because the first Japanese immigrant arrived in the U.S. on May 7, 1843. On May 10, 1869, the golden spike was driven into the first transcontinental railroad, completed largely with Chinese immigrant labor.

In 2021, Illinois became the first state to mandate a unit of Asian American history in public school curricula, to counteract and prevent prejudice and violence targeting Asian Americans. Last year, New Jersey and Connecticut became the second and third states to mandate teaching of Asian American history and heritage.

PDA celebrates diversity, and we commend states for broadening their educational goals. Learning begets knowledge, knowledge begets understanding, understanding fosters love, and love overcomes hate. Join us in celebrating the rich heritage and many contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans this month and every month.

In solidarity,