May marks the celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time to highlight and honor the rich contributions of these communities throughout American history. At Connecticut Children’s, we embrace this opportunity to educate our team members, patients, and families about the remarkable impact of AANHPI individuals both past and present.
Throughout the month, we adorn our hospital with informative signage, equip our staff with educational resources, and spotlight the diverse backgrounds of our team members. Additionally, we encourage families to engage in activities that deepen their understanding and appreciation of AANHPI cultures and their influence on our nation.
Here are some suggestions to observe AANHPI Heritage Month and to continue celebrating diversity year-round with you children:
- Embark on a virtual journey through the National Park Service's Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage website, exploring exhibits that preserve the history of these communities within our nation's parks and historic sites.
- Read children's books written by AANHPI authors or illustrated by AANHPI artists, with recommendations available from PBS.org, the School Library Journal, and Reading Rockets.
- Discover the melodies and instruments of traditional AANHPI music through online platforms like YouTube, where you can listen to the captivating sounds of Hmong flute playing and singing, Japanese taiko drums, and more.
For further inspiration, explore Connecticut Children’s Growing Healthy Blog, which offers a plethora of ideas—from arts and crafts to virtual vacations—to commemorate the month with children.
Lastly, gain insight into the significance of AANHPI Heritage Month with a brief history lesson. Established by Congress, this awareness month in May commemorates the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in 1943 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869, a monumental achievement largely attributed to Chinese immigrants. The AANHPI region encompasses a vast territory, including the Asian continent and various islands across Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia.
By embracing AANHPI Heritage Month, we honor the resilience, accomplishments, and cultural richness of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic community.