May is National Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, and the city of Memphis embraced the spirit of the celebration yesterday with an event at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library. This special event was a collaborative effort between the City of Memphis EDI (Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion), USCIS (United States Citizenship & Immigration Services), and Memphis Public Libraries. It offered attendees a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Asian cultures, providing a platform for cultural exchange and mutual appreciation.

From 10 am to 1:30 pm, the Central Library located at 3030 Poplar Avenue transformed into a vibrant hub of Asian heritage and traditions. The #FunCrew of JustMyMemphis was on-site to partake in the day's festivities and to document the communal joy.

The AAPI Heritage Month Celebration featured a rich tapestry of experiences. Cultural exhibits showcased the diverse traditions, arts, and histories of various Asian countries. The library reverberated with the beat of Asian cultural performances, offering a visual spectacle that captivated the attendees. Additionally, food sampling and tasting sessions enabled visitors to embark on a culinary journey across Asia, delighting their palates with the region's exquisite cuisines.

One of the day's most impactful experiences was the opportunity to witness a Naturalization Ceremony. Limited seating was available for 50 attendees at each ceremony, which took place at 10 am and 12 pm. The ceremonies were a poignant reminder of America's rich immigrant history and its cultural diversity.

Understanding AAPI Heritage Month

The history of AAPI Heritage Month traces back to 1977 when Congress introduced resolutions to commemorate Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. Following years of advocacy, the observance was expanded to a month in 1990, and two years later, May was officially designated as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

The month of May was chosen to honor two significant milestones in Asian Pacific American history: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, built largely by Chinese immigrants.

AAPI Heritage Month serves as a reminder of the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. Through events like the one held yesterday at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library, the City of Memphis reaffirms its commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within its community.