As we observe Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we take this opportunity to celebrate the diverse cultures, rich histories, and invaluable contributions of the AAPI community. May holds a special significance as it marks the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869 [1].
Throughout May, NYSCADV stands in solidarity with Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders, advocates, and organizations who are relentlessly working to dismantle systemic oppression and discrimination. We salute their determination and commitment to promoting inclusivity and justice.
Let's come together to participate in virtual activities and initiatives to celebrate AAPI communities. Together, we can raise awareness, celebrate diversity, and advocate for equality. Explore how you can get involved in and support AAPI Heritage Month initiatives.
To learn more about AAPI history, check out these resources:
- Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: A collaborative project of several federal institutions, including the Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, and National Endowment for the Humanities, showcasing exhibits and collections that celebrate the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history.
- PBS Ancestors in the Americas: The website explores Asian American history and experiences.
Check out these New York-based AAPI organizations that support survivors of domestic violence:
- Arab-American Family Support Center (AAFSC): Based in NYC, AAFSC empowers immigrants and refugees with the tools they need to successfully acclimate to the world around them and become active participants in their communities.
- Saathi: Empower people of South Asian origin in Western New York who are experiencing domestic violence to regain their dignity and rebuild their lives by becoming self-confident and self-sufficient.
- Sakhi: Based in NYC, Sakhi is committed to serving survivors through a combination of efforts including—but not limited to—direct services, advocacy and organizing, technical assistance, and community outreach.
- Womankind: Based in NYC, Womankind provides multilingual and culturally responsive services to help survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual violence rise above trauma and build a path to healing.
Check out these AAPI organizations making positive strides in communities:
- Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund: A national organization founded in 1974, protects and promotes the civil rights of Asian Americans.
- Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence (APIGBV): APIGBV Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence analyzes the types, dynamics, and cultural context of gender violence in Asian and Pacific Islander communities, including domestic violence, sexual violence, domestic violence-related homicide, abusive international marriages, elder abuse, HIV & IPV, forced marriage, and trafficking.
- National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum (NAPAWF): Focused on building power with AAPI women and girls to influence critical decisions that affect their lives, families, and communities. Using a reproductive justice framework, NAPAWF elevates AAPI women and girls to impact policy and drive systemic change in the United States.
References
[1] Library of Congress. About Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Available here: https://asianpacificheritage.gov/
