Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month
Impactful Narratives: Honoring Contributions and Challenges.
Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month Through Impactful Narratives: Honoring Contributions and Challenges.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPIHM) is celebrated annually in May to recognize and honor the contributions, history and achievements of Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders and Native Hawaiians in the United States. The month of May was chosen to commemorate two significant historical events: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad, largely built by Chinese immigrant laborers, on May 10, 1869.
Long since marginalized within American culture, AAPIHM provides an opportunity to highlight the diverse traditions and experiences of AAPI communities and to raise awareness about the challenges they have faced and continue to overcome. Through cultural events, educational programs and community gatherings, AAPIHM celebrates the rich heritage and enduring contributions of these vibrant and integral communities in shaping America's history and future.
This May, we are excited to celebrate and uplift AAPI voices and experiences by exploring impactful literature. Explore our curated list of suggested readings below to gain insights into the diverse perspectives of AAPI communities and individuals as shared through the works of these talented AAPI authors.
1. “Things We Lost to the Water” by Eric Nguyen
This stunning debut novel follows an immigrant Vietnamese family settling in New Orleans, striving to stay connected amidst life's transformations.
Themes: Immigration, family ties, adaptation.
2. “Real Americans” by Rachel Khong
From the acclaimed author of "Goodbye, Vitamin," this novel explores the intricacies of American identity across three generations, questioning the forces that shape us.
Themes: Identity, destiny, generational perspectives.
3. “They Called Us Exceptional” by Prachi Gupta
A heartfelt memoir that delves into the complexities of self-understanding and narrative control, particularly resonant for immigrants navigating societal expectations.
Themes: Self-discovery, immigrant experiences, belonging.
4. “Interior Chinatown” by Charles Yu
This deeply personal novel by the inventive Charles Yu challenges stereotypes and explores race, assimilation and the desire to break free from societal roles.
Themes: Race, pop culture, assimilation.
5. “Natural Beauty” by Ling Ling Huang
Follow a young musician into the world of consumerism and beauty obsession, unraveling questions of self-worth and identity along the way.
Themes: Consumer culture, self-perception, racial identity.
As we honor AAPI Heritage Month, immerse yourself in these impactful works that offer diverse perspectives and profound insights. Explore these books and share your thoughts to celebrate AAPI voices and experiences. By engaging in discussions sparked by these compelling narratives we can begin to deepen our understanding of AAPI heritage and culture. Happy reading!