Although typically celebrated in May, NAU celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month in April so the community can come together while school is in session. AAPI Month honors those from all countries in the Asian continent and from the Pacific islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia.
Yinong Wang, an academic program coordinator for the Center for International Education (CIE) and a Chinese American, was not aware of AAPI month until last year because of the increasing violence toward Asian people. Hosting events during this month celebrates the identities and culture of Asian and Pacific Islander students and raises awareness on campus and can help to decrease racial biases too often seen in society.
“I want the community to know that each Asian country is beautiful and unique. People should respect the cultures and not make quick assumptions and judgments on something that you do not understand,” Wang said. “Have an open mind about things that are different from you. We want to encourage all students to keep an open mind to communicate with and learn from the AAPI community possibly new make friends.”
IMQ is hosting or collaborating on a variety of different events to help share Asian and Pacific Islander culture with students, staff and faculty. For more information, visit the IMQ events page.
API Heritage Month Celebration
April 14 at 5-7:30 p.m. in the International Pavilion
Join the Office of Inclusion and the Center for International Education for a night of performances and presentations by the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, the HAPA Hawaiian Club, the Filipino American Student Association, the Korean Language and Cultural Club and the International Club.
NAU Asian and Pacific Islander Faculty and Staff Panel
April 20 at 12-1 p.m. in the IMQ Student Center
Join IMQ for a lunch time panel of esteemed faculty and staff sharing their experiences as a person who identifies as Asian or Pacific Islander.
API and PRIDE Louie’s Cupboard Special Distribution
April 21 at 1-3 p.m. in the University Union Room 212
Join the Office of Inclusion and Louie’s Cupboard for a special distribution in celebration of API Heritage Month. While supplies last, come pick up a grub box featuring a recipe by a LGBTQIA and API chef.
KPop Karaoke
April 21 at 5-7 p.m. in the IMQ Student Center
Join IMQ for a fun night filled with music, singing and laughter.
Maddie Blunier | NAU Communications