May is Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month

Throughout May, the Puyallup School District recognizes Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month to respectfully acknowledge and appreciate the valuable contributions and achievements of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI). 

This commemoration originated in 1977, when Congress passed a resolution to honor the first Japanese immigrants to the United States, who arrived on May 7, 1843. In 1990, this celebration was extended to a month-long recognition of the diverse cultures and histories of AANHPI communities in the United States.

Also, this month provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the remarkable contributions of AANHPI individuals to American history, culture, and society, raise awareness of the challenges and struggles faced by these communities, and honor the diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of AANHPI communities, and to celebrate their rich and varied contributions to the American cultural tapestry.