By Makayla Rosales, Coordinator, Opportunity & Impact
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month is observed each May to celebrate the rich history, culture and contributions of AANHPI communities in the United States. The effort to formally recognize these contributions began in the late 1970s and took more than a decade to become a permanent, month-long observance.
In 1977, Representative Frank Horton and Senator Daniel Inouye introduced resolutions to establish Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, though these initial efforts did not pass. In 1978, Horton reintroduced the proposal, which was approved by Congress and signed into law by President Jimmy Carter as Public Law 95-419.
From 1980 to 1990, presidents issued annual proclamations recognizing the observance as a week-long celebration. In 1990, Congress expanded it to a month, and by 1992, May was officially designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, later renamed AAPI Heritage Month in 2009.
This year’s theme from the Federal Asian Pacific American Council, “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together,” emphasizes the importance of collective strength, shared stories and community connection. It highlights the value of honoring family lineages and embracing the role of bridge builders who bring people and cultures together.
The symbolism of the bridge reflects core values deeply rooted in AANHPI communities, including innovation, resilience, hard work, connection and a strong sense of belonging. In addition to celebrating, it’s important to stand in solidarity with AANHPI communities, uplifting their voices and supporting their continued impact.
Engage in the workplace
Engaging in AANHPI Heritage Month in a corporate setting can be both meaningful and impactful when approached with intention. Organizations can host educational events, such as panel discussions or fireside chats that highlight AANHPI history, culture and lived experiences, while giving speakers space to share both personal and professional perspectives. Inviting local organizations or nonprofits that serve AANHPI communities can further deepen understanding and offer employees multiple ways to get involved through volunteering, partnerships or collaborations.
Another meaningful way to engage during AANHPI Heritage Month is by connecting with the broader community through local events and cultural spaces. Companies can encourage employees to attend festivals, museum exhibits and community celebrations that highlight AANHPI heritage and traditions. Organizing group outings or sharing curated opportunities to participate can provide employees with a more immersive and authentic understanding of the communities being celebrated. These experiences foster a deeper appreciation for AANHPI cultures while reinforcing that recognition extends beyond internal programming and into meaningful, real-world support.
May holidays to recognize
Jewish American Heritage Month, observed each May, celebrates the rich history and lasting contributions of Jewish Americans to the broader fabric of American society. Established in 2006 by President George W. Bush, the observance builds on earlier efforts, such as Jewish American Week in the 1980s and the 350th Anniversary of American Jewish History, which commemorated Jewish presence in the United States since 1654. This month serves as an opportunity for Jewish Americans to reflect on their heritage, while also inviting others to learn about and engage with Jewish culture and traditions. It highlights the resilience and achievements of Jewish communities throughout history and underscores the diversity that shapes the American experience.
Memorial Day falls on May 25 this year and is a time to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. It’s a day to reflect on the courage, dedication and selflessness of those who gave their lives to protect others. Additionally, this day is a reminder to recognize the profound impact of their service on families, communities and future generations.
Attend an event
If you are interested in bringing your team, friends or family to engaging and educational opportunities occurring in May, here are some events:
Stronger Together: A connected model for veteran workplace success |11-1:30 p.m. Friday, May 8.
Ernst & Young | 2323 Victory Ave. 5th Floor, Dallas, TX, 75219
Join Combined Arms, the Dallas Regional Chamber’s Leadership Dallas Class of 2026 and regional stakeholders for an executive-focused conversation on how a connected support model strengthens veteran recruiting, onboarding and retention. This executive forum will also introduce a new employer toolkit with practical resources companies can use to better attract, support and grow veteran talent.
AAPI Heritage Month Festival 2026 | 9 a.m., Saturday, May 9.
Sammons Park | 2403 Flora St., Dallas, TX, 75201
Cultural performances, vendors and more converge on Sammons Park to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, featuring a performance from Filipina American pop singer-songwriter Francene Rouelle.
2026 AAPI Heritage & Dragon Boat Festival | Racing begins at 8:30 a.m.; festival begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m., Sunday, May 17.
The Bath House Cultural Center at White Rock Lake | 521 E. Lawther Dr., Dallas, TX, 75218
Join for a family-friendly celebration of Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Enjoy live performances, hands-on workshops, art, food, vendors and the exciting Dragon Boat race—watch or paddle along!
Guided Permanent Exhibition Tour: Jewish American Heritage Month | 1:30 p.m., Sunday, May 17.
Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum | 300 N. Houston St., Dallas, TX, 75202
During this guided tour, visitors explore the Museum’s permanent exhibition through the experiences of Jewish survivors, victims, resistors and Upstanders, learning how they rebuilt their lives after the war and became part of American society.
The Crow Museum of Asian Art: At UT Dallas | Open Tuesday-Sunday from 11-5 p.m.
Edith and Peter O’Donnell Jr. Athenaeum | 777 Loop Rd SW, Richardson, TX, 75080
The Crow Museum of Asian Art of The University of Texas at Dallas is free to the public and showcases the following exhibits: Mountain Jade with Lam Tung Pang, Echoes of the Earth, Ancient Echoes, Modern Voices: The Crow Collection Goes Beyond and more!
The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum | Open Wednesday-Sunday, from 11-5 p.m.
2501 N. Harwood St., Harwood, Dallas, TX, 75201
Samurai culture was one of pageantry, violence, beauty and honor. Echoes of these traits are found in their armor. Established in the Harwood District in 2012, The Samurai Collection is the only museum of its kind in the United States and is now the largest in the world.