The month of May marks Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPI) Month. As it ends, community members reflect on the celebration of diverse cultures.

AAPI Month is marked by a series of events and activities that aim to highlight the achievements and experiences of these communities. Cultural festivals, exhibitions, performances and educational programs took place, which aimed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the traditions, art forms, languages and customs of Asian and Pacific Islander groups.

In and around Kent, a number of events and activities showcased these communities. Among them were the Lucky Rabbit variety show in downtown Akron, the Cleveland Asian Festival and a showing of Modern Japan at the Cleveland Museum of Art. These events exemplify the broader celebrations held in and around Kent to commemorate AAPI Month.

As AAPI Month comes to a close, community members say the impact of the events will reverberate beyond just one month.

Adam Dwinnells, a junior majoring in political science, reflected on the significance of AAPI Month.

“My dad, who is a Japanese American and moved here after WWII, has experienced a lot of hardships in dealing with discrimination,” he said. “My dad’s heritage has allowed me to experience my own diversity and that of other people in a way that feels very personal. It provides a perspective on people and their struggles that I would not have had otherwise and has helped me be more understanding and empathetic.”

Michael Seibold, a junior studying integrated science, expressed his appreciation for AAPI Month.

“I feel that it gives representation to an important and often overlooked group within America’s culture,” Seibold said. “AAPI Month allows us time to reflect on an important cultural group in America and appreciate the impact that they have had on our culture.”

Cheng Jain, a first-generation immigrant from China, enjoyed witnessing people taking their time to understand and learn about a culture that is different and offers interesting insights and perspectives.

Jain said that AAPI Month serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions made by Asian and Pacific Islander communities, which helped to shape the United States.

Andrew Wise is a reporter. Contact him at [email protected].