Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is celebrated each May to honor the diverse cultures, histories, and achievements of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the United States. This national observance originated in 1978 as a weeklong event, later expanded to a month in 1990 by congressional legislation and made official in 1992, commemorating two historic milestones: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the U.S. on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869—an achievement that relied heavily on the labor of Chinese immigrants.​
AAPI Heritage Month encourages communities and institutions to recognize the significant contributions of AAPI individuals to American society in various fields, including the arts, sciences, civil rights, and public service. The month serves as an opportunity to celebrate heritage and promote awareness of historical experiences, resilience, and the ongoing work toward equity and inclusion for AAPI populations. Museums, libraries, and schools often host cultural celebrations, educational events, and public programs to foster understanding and dialogue about the vibrant diversity and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.​
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