Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is a monthlong commemoration of the history and achievements of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the United States. AAPI Heritage Month takes place each year in May, which was permanently designated for the commemoration in 1992 by President George H.W. Bush.
What is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month?
When did Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month originate?
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month emerged from the Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week that the U.S. Congress established in 1978 to coincide with anniversaries of significant events in Asian American history. In 1992 President George H.W. Bush permanently designated the month of May as an annual observance of Asian/Pacific American Heritage. President Barack Obama changed the tribute’s name to Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in 2009.