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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is an annual celebration in May that recognizes the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. It honors the diverse backgrounds, traditions, and achievements of AAPI communities, which include people from East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

The month was officially designated in 1992, building on earlier efforts to recognize AAPI contributions. May was chosen to commemorate two historical events:

  • May 7, 1843 – The arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the U.S.
  • May 10, 1869 – The completion of the transcontinental railroad, largely built by Chinese laborers.

Celebrations often include cultural performances, educational events, film screenings, panel discussions, and community gatherings. Since May is a busy time for colleges with finals and graduations, some institutions extend their celebrations from April 1st to May 16th to allow for greater participation.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Events

 

AAPI History Facts



Where: The Week Ahead

April 2nd, 2025

Eid Celebration

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Downtown Campus 
Room: M605

Join Rohingya Student Association on a festive gathering to celebrate Eid, featuring traditional foods, cultural discussions, and community bonding.

Questions & Concerns:
koz@gmatc.matc.edu

RSVP

April 10th, 2025

Asian Student Association Game Night

Time: 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

MATC Downtown Campus
Room: M616 

Join the Asian Student Association for a night of games, fun, and socializing with fellow students.

Questions & Concerns: 
asianstudentassoc@matc.edu

 

April 21st, 2025

Asian Student Association Eggroll Sale

Time: 11 a.m. until all eggroll is sold

MATC Downtown Campus
3rd Floor, S Building

Support the ASA by purchasing delicious handmade eggrolls while learning about traditional AAPI cuisine.

Questions & Concerns: 
asianstudentassoc@matc.edu

 

April 29th, 2025

Beyond the Model Minority Myth: A Chinese-American's Story

Time: 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

MATC Downtown Campus
Room: M605

Come join us for a presentation on the Model Minority Myth with facilitator Christine Leung, MATC's Web Design Specialist and Asian Affinity Group co-lead. Enjoy food, refreshments, and a bingo networking activity. This event is co-sponsored by the Asian Student Association.

 Questions & Concerns:
leungc@matc.edu

RSVP

April 23, 2025 | April 30, 2025 | May 7, 2025

Southeast Asian Line Dance Workshop

Time: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

MATC Downtown Campus
Room: T211

A cultural dance workshop where participants will learn traditional and modern line dances from various AAPI cultures.

Questions & Concerns:
vuey14@gmatc.matc.edu

RSVP

 

Pending in Early May

Taste of Asia

Time: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.

MATC Downtown Campus
Room: M605

Taste of Asia is an exotic food tasting event designed for the MATC community to explore and enjoy a variety of Asian cuisines from different regions of Asia. The event showcases diverse flavors, ingredients, and culinary traditions, offering students and staff the opportunity to expand their palates while learning about Asian culture through food.

It’s a chance to experience authentic dishes from countries such as China, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, India, Korea, the Philippines, and more—all in one place! The event may feature street food, traditional delicacies, desserts, and beverages, giving attendees a unique and flavorful journey across Asia.

Questions & Concerns: 
asianstudentassoc@matc.edu