APIDA Heritage Month, observed in May, celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Asian Pacific Islander Desi Americans. The term "APIDA" includes individuals with roots in East Asia, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the South Asian subcontinent (Desi), aiming to highlight the full diversity of these communities. The month’s purpose is to recognize the unique experiences and achievements of APIDA individuals, raise awareness about challenges they face, and promote equity and inclusion. Originally established as a week in 1978 and expanded to a month in 1992, May was chosen to mark significant historical milestones, such as the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants and the completion of the transcontinental railroad. While "APIDA Heritage Month" emphasizes inclusivity of South Asian Americans, it may also be known as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), or Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month.
Each May, The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum come together to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage through the generations.
