Be Inspired - Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage month
The month of May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage month; a time to celebrate the achievements and historical and cultural contributions of both individuals and groups of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the USA. Originally a week of celebrations from 1977, it was made into a whole month in 2009, taking place in May to commemorate both the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the US on 7th May 1843 and also Golden Spike Day on 10th May 1869, which was the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the US which was significantly contributed to by Chinese immigrant workers who were particularly mistreated and underpaid.
Despite having huge impacts to American culture for centuries before, AAPIs are unfortunately still experiencing a lot of firsts in terms of accolades; from Kamala Harris becoming the first Asian American Vice President to Michelle Yeoh being the first Asian woman to win an Oscar for Best Actress. Celebrate AAPI Heritage month with some of the great and most famous works of art, including traditional ukiyo-e prints from Hiroshige and Hokusai to traditional Chinese silk embroidery art. Feel the scorching heat from Gauguin’s masterpieces from his travels in Tahiti and Marquesas.
The contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are only becoming more visible and more celebrated. Take part in the festivities with this varied and cultured collection.