Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: The Power of Representation
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is celebrated during the month of May in recognition of the contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islander Americans to the culture of the United States.
Originally established as Asian Pacific Heritage Week in 1979, President George H.W. Bush issued Presidential Proclamation 6130 marking May 1990 as the first APA Heritage Month. In 1992, Congress passed and formally recognized May as APA Heritage Month.
AAPI Presence in Pop-Culture
Growing up Filipina, I was desensitized to the visibility of the white, female archetype in my favorite movies, tv shows and books. I was unable to pinpoint the emptiness I felt from underrepresentation. It wasn’t until I read The Summer I Turned Pretty in eighth grade and watched the Amazon Prime adaptation my junior year of college that I tangibly felt a divide close within my yearning heart.
Written by Korean American author, Jenny Han, and centered around a Korean American lead, this YA novel opened a world up to young AAPI individuals that they were not previously privy to. It created an experience that remained culturally relevant while not forcing stereotypical characterization on a group of people who have historically been underrepresented.
Diversity When You’re Not Seeking a Quota
Aside from representation in the mass media, APA Heritage Month recognizes the accomplishments of a diverse public. From science, sports and entertainment to art and law, AAPI individuals have made significant contributions to society’s advancement. Within the media industry, trailblazing women such as Constance Yu-Hwa Chung, Seung Min Kim, and Kimmy Yam have made significant impact through their work.
- Chung is an Emmy-Winning Chinese American broadcast journalist whose commitment to the industry led her to covering high-profile topics such as the disappearance of Chandra Levy and Magic Johnson’s HIV diagnosis.
- Min Kim is a Korean American Washington Post reporter covering the White House. Her career has involved more than eight years at Politico covering the Senate and immigration policy.
- Yam is a Chinese American journalist for NBC focused primarily on Asian American issues.
These leaders within the industry have shattered expectations and given voice to a coming generation of AAPI youth seeking the opportunity to tell their stories.
Allowing individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences a seat at the table leads to innovation. We should work toward championing one another and collaborating on projects, recognizing the unique skills and perspectives that everyone brings to the table. In doing so, AAPI individuals will feel valued and will continue to drive growth and advancement for women in communications and media across the board.
