Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Dear Eastern Community,

Today marks the first day of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, an annual celebration that recognizes the historical and cultural contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) descent. This includes cultures throughout all areas of Asia, as well as the Pacific Islands within. Today we also recognize the first immigrants who came to the United States from Japan in May of 1843.

Asian-Americans are one of the fastest growing populations in the United States. This growth opens up opportunities to appreciate AAPI culture, as well as learn from their diverse history, communities, and experiences.

This year's theme, according to the Federal Asian Pacific American Council, is "Advancing Leaders through Innovation." The theme pays homage to the Asian and Pacific Islander visionaries and trailblazers who have made lasting contributions to our nation's economic prosperity, technological advancements, and social change over the years.

We are reminded by Chinese-American Architect Ieoh Ming Pei that "success is a collection of problems solved." We honor the steadfast innovation and resilience of the Asian Pacific American individuals as they navigated cultural and systematic barriers while solving problems, shaping history, and pioneering our collective future towards success.

The economic, environmental, social, and cultural challenges that are faced by our local and global communities require a level of ingenuity that demands differing perspectives and creative solutions from all backgrounds. Those of Asian and Pacific Islander descent bring the richness of their heritage, values, art, music, and experience to the table, empowering us to move forward towards problem-solving, creativity, and community building as a country.

In our Eastern University community, diversity is celebrated. Diversity matters. Our 30+ employees of Asian and Pacific heritage matter. Their presence and innovation enriches our community.

"Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it." 1 Corinthians 12:27 (ESV)

We honor our Asian American and Pacific Islander brothers and sisters, and we celebrate their contributions to our world and community here at Eastern.

Shalom! Shalom!
Randolph Walters, Psy.D, LPC, CCTP, CSAM