Its roots date back to 1977
across the socioeconomic spectrum despite their different cultures, languages, and religions. Doing so can further the false idea that minorities are monolithic groups.
Another major flaw of having a month dedicated to a particular minority group is how support and attention tend to wane once the month is over. For example, brands will participate in AAPIHM — or similarly, Black History Month, or Latinx Heritage Month — to play the role of the ally, only to drop off once the spotlight shifts from the community.
Visibility goes beyond community organizing and legislation. You can support AAPI creators by intentionally seeking out AAPI-made media, from a new television show to binge with your friends or a book by an AAPI author whose work you’ve never read. By supporting AAPI creators, you’re supporting the idea that AAPI voices deserve a place at the table in mainstream media.
Regardless of how you celebrate AAPIHM, we can all agree that the AAPI community is an important fiber in the fabric of American society. The conversation should be about how Americans can give back to the AAPI community in meaningful, enduring ways that extend beyond the month of May.