May is AAPI Heritage Month

We've recently celebrated Cinco de Mayo which is a day that has evolved to celebrate the rich culture of Mexico and the Mexican people. Did you know, though, that September is Hispanic Heritage Month, which is aligned with Mexico's September 16 Independence Day?

May, on the other hand, is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. AAPI Heritage Month is observed annually in May to celebrate the contributions that generations of AAPIs have made to American history, society, and culture. The AAPI community represents approximately 50 ethnic groups and represents over 100 different languages.

AAPI Heritage Month takes place in May to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants and the completion of the transcontinental railroad. The involvement of large numbers of Chinese laborers in the construction of the railroad contributed to a long period of intense racial discrimination against Asians as they were portrayed as job-stealers and criminals. Discrimination continued with exclusionary laws, internment camps and xenophobia.

Today, we can’t acknowledge the AAPI experience without understanding the model minority myth. Please see this explainer from our Global, Commercial, and Diversity team. The myth is rooted in harmful stereotypes that minimize the rise in Asian hate crimes and drives a racial wedge between communities of color.

Texas REALTORS® also enjoys a strong relationship with the Asian Real Estate Association of America. Check out the photos from our 2019 AREAA Day and our recent statement in solidarity with the AAPI community.

If you’d like to learn more and join the celebration of AAPI Heritage Month:

• Throughout May, the Coalition of Asian Pacific Americans will be hosting virtual events through EventHub.

• Throughout May, PBS is highlighting AAPI stories through a 10-part series of free streamed programs. You can see the full schedule here.

• Watch Asian Americans, PBS’s five-part docuseries that gives an overview of America’s Asian communities from the first immigrants in the 19th century right up to today.