May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound we are excited to take this opportunity to celebrate and recognize the AAPI members of our community – Bigs, Littles, parents & guardians, staff, donors, and board members. This month, and every month, we celebrate the rich cultural traditions and incredible contributions of AAPI communities.

We acknowledge that Asian American and Pacific Islander communities have a complex and often difficult history in the United States, and the Puget Sound region in particular. Despite significant obstacles, AAPI individuals and communities have made immense contributions to American society. From the work of civil rights activist Gordon Hirabayashi to the impact on music & culture by Hiro Yamamoto of Soundgarden, and the history-making political career of Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, AAPI individuals in the Puget Sound have made their mark in countless fields and industries. Follow us on socials this month to learn more about 6 AAPI community members who have made history!

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound we celebrate and honor the many contributions of members of the AAPI community. We encourage everyone in our community to take a moment to appreciate and learn more about this history. You can find articles on Wikipedia, through UW’s Center for the Study of the Pacific Northwest, and other locations online.

We also recognize that AAPI communities continue to face significant challenges; including anti-Asian racism and discrimination. We believe that everyone has a role to play in promoting equity and inclusion for all. Whether that means supporting AAPI-owned businesses, learning about AAPI history and current events, or simply being an ally to AAPI individuals in your life, there are many ways you can show support.

As we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, we encourage everyone to actively support and uplift AAPI communities. This month is a great time to attend events and learn more about AAPI history and culture. For parents and Bigs, here are some FREE events you can attend with young people to help them learn about AAPI cultures and history:

1. 2023 MAY STORY TIME: NURSE UBE RIDES A PEDICAB, Thursday, May 4, 2023, 11:00 AM -11:30 AM at Wing Luke Museum
2. Korea Day – APCC Heritage Month, Saturday, May 6, 11:00AM-1:00PM at Asia Pacific Cultural Center in Tacoma
3. Craft Afterschool: Celebrate AANHPI Month, Thu, May 18, 3:30 – 5:00 PM Wheelock Library in Tacoma
4. Indian Cultural Presentation, Saturday, May 20, 12:30PM-2:30PM at Asia Pacific Cultural Center in Tacoma
5. An Asian American A to Z book event, Monday, May 22 · 6PM – 8PM at Little Saigon Creative in Seattle.

Thank you for joining us in recognizing and celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!

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