The month of May is observed as Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month. Here’s a deep dive into what you need to know about the significance and history of APIDA and Jewish American Heritage Months as well as ways the University of Denver commemorates them.
Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month
APIDA Heritage Month celebrates the rich tapestry of cultures within the Asian American community, embracing their diverse identities and contributions.
Initiatives to commemorate the contributions of the Asian American community first began in 1977 in New York, where representatives attempted to introduce House and Senate resolutions to proclaim the first ten days of May as “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.” The resolutions did not pass, but in 1978, a new resolution proposed the president should proclaim a week during May as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. After approval from the House and Senate, it was signed into law by President Jimmy Carter on October 5, 1978.
Over the next 12 years, presidents of the United States would proclaim Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week during May, beginning on May 4. It was not until 1990 that Congress passed a law to extend the observance to an entire month. In 1992, Congress passed Public Law 102-450, which annually commemorates May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.
May holds much significance for the Asian American community, as it recognizes the immigration of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843. May also marks the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, where the majority of the railroad workers were Chinese immigrants.
Since 1992, Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month has become synonymous with Asian Pacific American Heritage Month to better reflect all the identities and cultures within Asian Americans.
In line with the numerous monthly celebrations in the U.S., APIDA Heritage Month observes an annual theme, with this year’s focus being Advancing Leaders Through Innovation.
At DU, the Asian Student Alliance (ASA) and the South Asian Student Association (SASA), with the Cultural Center’s support, spearhead the on-campus celebrations for APIDA Heritage Month.
Some of the larger festivities during the month include ASA’s Taste of Asia which will be held on May 10 on the Campus Green featuring an assortment of dishes from the region. ASA will also hold its annual eXpressions showcase, where the DU community joins together to appreciate the diverse student talent. The event will be held this year on May 17.
Jewish American Heritage Month
Like APIDA Heritage Month, Jewish American Heritage Month calls for the recognition and celebration of the contributions of Jewish Americans as well as their enduring perseverance and resilience.
The first initiatives to commemorate the contributions and struggles of Jewish Americans date back to the 1980s. In 1980, Congress passed a bill that authorized and requested the president to proclaim a week in April as Jewish American Heritage Week, which President Carter quickly did. Each year, Congress passed laws proclaiming a week in April or May as Jewish American Heritage Week. Then in 2006, Congress passed Resolution 315 which urged the president to proclaim an observance of an American Jewish Heritage Month. That same year, President Bush issued the first proclamation designating May as Jewish American Heritage Month. Following President Bush, each president has proclaimed May as such.
May was chosen following May 2004’s successful celebration of the 350th Anniversary of American Jewish History, organized by the Commission for Commemorating. The month intends to celebrate the vibrant and varied identities of Jewish Americans, and their contributions that have shaped the country since the first Jewish immigrants arrived in New Amsterdam (now New York) in 1654.
At DU, Chabad and Hillel host a variety of events throughout May to foster community on campus. The organizations have a dedication to building community among their members with the larger Denver community and offer multiple support services.
Intersectionality:
The intersectionality between APIDA and Jewish American Heritage Months lies in their shared experiences of migration, cultural preservation and their pursuit of equality and justice. Though both communities have faced historical discrimination, marginalization and exclusion, their countless contributions have impacted the social, cultural and economic fabric of the country. It is important to highlight the interconnectedness of diverse cultural experiences, as well as recognize and celebrate the contributions of all communities to American society.
To keep up with future events, be sure to follow ASA, SASA, the Cultural Center, Chabad and Hillel’s Instagrams and check out their Crimson Connect pages.
