May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. It is observed throughout the month to recognize the contributions and influence of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans in United States history and culture.
AAPI Heritage observance began in 1977 when a United States Congressional resolution was signed by former President Jimmy Carter to celebrate AAPI contributions during a single week in May. The observance expanded over time to span the entire month.
This year’s AAPI Heritage Month theme, “Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration”, was selected by the Federal Asian Pacific American Council with the goal of increased leadership and advancement of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans.
According to the 2020 Census, seven percent of Chicagoans have Asian ancestry, and 0.1% of Chicagoans report Pacific Islander ancestry. In the 2020 Census, Asian Americans experienced the largest gain of any racial or ethnic group in Chicago — a 30 percent increase since 2010.
City Colleges of Chicago is invested in recognizing and celebrating diversity. Join us this month as we acknowledge Asian and Pacific Islander experiences in America as lives of resilience, collaboration, and excellence.
