Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, also known as Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI)

What is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month?

Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, also known as Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI) is an annual celebration in May that recognizes the contributions and influence of Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander descent recognized in the United States.

What cultures fall under the AAPI umbrella?

The AAPI umbrella term includes cultures from the entire Asian continent—including East, Southeast, and South Asia—and the Pacific Islands of Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia.

Why is AAPI celebrated in May?

This month was the first month of the first Japanese people to immigrate to the United States and the Golden Spike Day. Golden Spike Day (May 10, 1869) was the date of the completion of the transcontinental railroad which was built with major contributions from Chinese workers.

Celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Month in Delco!

The County of Delaware was proud to partner with Upper Darby Township, Visit Delco, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Philadelphia, and the Delaware County Office of Workforce Development to host the First Annual Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Month Celebration on May 10 in Upper Darby. The celebration honored the diversity of Delaware County’s Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities and celebrated their past, present, and future.

The free, family-friendly celebration included a variety of exciting and inspiring performances including Korean Drummers, Giddha- Punjab folk dance, and Zoe Erianna from America’s Got Talent. The program kicked off with welcoming remarks by David Oh, President of the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia, who expressed how Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is “a time to reflect upon and celebrate the remarkable role of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities in our Nation’s history and the individuals who make our nation more vibrant through the diversity of culture, languages and religions.”

“It is important to recognize and celebrate the achievements, resilience, and contributions AANHPI communities have made in Delaware County,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “Through the richness of their diverse cultures, traditions, and talents, they have not only enriched but also woven vibrant threads into the tapestry of Delaware County, leaving an indelible mark on our community.”

Sandra Lin, an inspiring educator from Penncrest High School, proudly showcased the remarkable talent of her students through poetry honoring Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander legacies. With passion and creativity, these young minds took center stage, captivating the audience with their powerful words and unique perspectives.

Amidst the festivities, Ms. Sandra Lin was honored during Teacher Appreciation Week. A beacon of dedication and passion, Ms. Lin was celebrated for her unwavering devotion to enriching her students' understanding and admiration of AAPI culture.

Throughout the remainder of the afternoon, attendees were treated to a diverse array of performances, each showcasing the unique talents of the AAPI community. From traditional dances to contemporary music, the celebration was a testament to the richness and diversity of the AAPI culture.