Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month 2025: A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience

May marks Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month-a time to honor the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders whose stories, achievements, and resilience have shaped the United States. In 2025, the national theme, “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience,” highlights the enduring strength, innovation, and cultural contributions of AANHPI communities, while calling on future generations to continue this legacy.

Why May? The Origins of AAPI Heritage Month

The roots of AAPI Heritage Month stretch back to 1977, when Congress first designated a week in May to recognize Asian and Pacific American contributions. The choice of May is deeply symbolic: it commemorates the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the U.S. in May 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in May 1869, a project built largely by Chinese laborers. In 1992, this observance expanded to the entire month, reflecting the growing recognition of AANHPI impact on American society.

AANHPI Communities: Diversity and Influence

AANHPI communities are among the most diverse in the U.S., representing over 75 countries from East, Southeast, and South Asia, as well as the Pacific Islands of Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 25 million Americans identify as Asian, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander, with Chinese, Indian, and Filipino Americans comprising the largest groups

AAPI Month 2025 with Amasian TV

2025 Theme: “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience”

This year’s theme, announced by the Federal Asian Pacific American Council, honors the hard work and leadership of AANHPI individuals who have paved the way for future generations. The 2025 poster features bamboo-a symbol of strength and flexibility-reminding us of the community’s ability to withstand adversity and thrive. The theme is both a tribute to past achievements and a call to action for younger generations to lead with ambition and conviction.

“Dream with ambition, lead with conviction, and see yourself in a way that others might not see you, simply because they’ve never seen it before.” Kamala Harris

How to Celebrate and Learn

AAPI Heritage Month is marked by events, exhibits, and educational opportunities nationwide. Here are some ways to participate:

• Explore Cultural Events: Cities like New York offer food festivals, night markets, and art exhibits showcasing AANHPI culture, from Dragon Fest to the Queer AAPI Food Festival

• Visit Museums and Parks: The Smithsonian, National Gallery of Art, and National Park Service host special programs and exhibits honoring AANHPI history and art

• Learn and Reflect: The National Archives and National Endowment for the Humanities provide resources for learning about AANHPI contributions, including digital collections and teacher guides.

• Support AANHPI Businesses and Creators: From food and wine festivals to local markets, supporting AANHPI entrepreneurs is a meaningful way to celebrate the community’s ongoing impact.

Looking Ahead

AAPI Heritage Month is more than a commemoration-it is a celebration of leadership, resilience, and the vibrant cultures that enrich the American story. As we honor the past and look to the future, this month serves as a reminder to recognize, support, and uplift AANHPI voices in every community.

Whether you join a festival, visit a museum, or simply take time to learn, May is an invitation to celebrate the legacy and promise of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Americans.

---

Learn more on 88tumble.com