Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the vibrant cultures, rich histories, and ongoing contributions of AANHPI communities across the United States. With roots tracing to more than 40 countries and countless islands across Asia and the Pacific, these communities reflect a wide range of languages, faiths, migration stories, and lived experiences.

AANHPI individuals have shaped the U.S. in powerful ways—from civil rights leadership and scientific innovation to culinary arts, education, and cultural preservation. At the same time, it’s important to remember that these communities are not a single story. Each group carries its own distinct traditions and histories, and each deserves to be seen, understood, and honored on its own terms.

This month invites us all to go beyond celebration—toward deeper learning, listening, and connection. Let’s take the opportunity to explore the stories and contributions that make up the beautiful mosaic of AANHPI heritage.

Events

THPRD

Saturday, June 21 ~ 3pm – 9pm | Natsu Matsuri

Conestoga Recreation and Aquatic Center - 9985 SW 125th Ave, Beaverton

Join us for a fun filled evening supporting local Japanese businesses! Walk our open-air market to find a wide variety of art, item, and food vendors. Play traditional Japanese games, create an origami masterpiece, and immerse yourself in the Japanese community. There will be something for everyone!

Natsu Matsuri (夏祭り) means “summer festival” in Japanese and is celebrated all over Japan. We will be celebrating the vibrant Japanese community in the area, and the passing of the summer solstice.

• City of Tigard ~ Asian Music Showcase ~ May 4th
• Portland Japanese Garden
• Portland Chinatown Museum: Experiences & Events
• 8th Annual Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Celebration ~ May 30th
• The Legendary Makers Market ~ July 12-13

Community Resources

• APANO
• IRCO
• Asian Health & Service Center (AHSC)
• Utopia Portland
• Oregon Chinese Coalition (OCC)
• Japan-America Society of Oregon (JASO)
• Korean Society of Oregon (KSO)
• Vietnamese Portland
• Japanese American Museum of Oregon
• Lan Su Chinese Garden
• Ka Lei Hali'a O Ka Lokelani
• Marianas Alliance for Growth of Islanders (MAGI)
• Oregon's first Marianas Festival - 2024

Educational Resources

• Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month
• Smithsonian
• National Archives
• National Park Service Celebrates AANHPI Month
• Centering Asian Artists in the American Story
• Asian Americans in the People's History of the United States.
• Equity Needs and Challenges of the AANHPI Community
• The Oregon Encyclopedia
• Oregon Rises Above Hate

Videos

• Are You “AAPI” or “Asian American”? It's Complicated. | A People's History of Asian America (youtube.com)
• Why “The China Virus” Has Always Been A Part Of U.S. History | A People's History of Asian America (youtube.com)
• Why Do We Say “Asian American” Not “Oriental”? - YouTube
• Who's Behind the Queer Asian Reclamation of Chinatown? - YouTube
• How You See Me

Book Recommendations

Film Recommendations

Podcast Recommendations

Asian Americans to Follow on Social Media