Syracuse Sun

Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month will be celebrated at the University in April, inviting all on campus to join in honoring the histories, cultural diversity, identities, and contributions of AAPI communities. The theme for this year, as shared by co-chairs Annie Chen ’25, Chelsea Kang ’24, and Bettina Talento ’25, is ‘Harmony in Heritage,’ emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural balance and appreciation for traditions passed down through generations.

According to the co-chairs, the theme serves as a reminder that despite diverse cultural backgrounds, there is interconnectedness in heritage among individuals. The AAPI Heritage Month shirts for this year feature flowers significant in multiple Asian cultures, symbolizing the intertwined nature of heritage across different countries and traditions.

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have roots in over 20 countries in East and Southeast Asia, each with its own unique histories, languages, beliefs, and traditions. Pacific Islanders, including Indigenous peoples from Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, and other Pacific islands, add to the ethnically diverse group within the AAPI community. The theme of ‘Harmony in Heritage’ encourages exploration and appreciation of both the diversity and commonalities present in AAPI communities.

The month-long celebration in April will feature a variety of programs and events that highlight the rich cultural heritage, significant contributions, and challenges faced by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The events, open to all members of the campus community, aim to raise awareness and promote understanding of the AAPI experience.

Key events during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the University include an Information Fair, Kickoff, Holi celebration, Keynote Speaker session, and an Alumni Speaker event featuring Sandhya Bathija ’03. For a full list of events and details, individuals are encouraged to visit the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month webpage.

The coverage of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month events was provided by Student Experience Communications Graduate Assistant Kalaya Sibley ’24, from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.