The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) declared this year’s AAPI Heritage Month theme “Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity.” The theme is meant to highlight AAPI leaders in the Federal and DC government and their service to the nation.
What is AAPI Heritage Month?
AAPI Heritage Month celebrates the histories of Americans immigrating from Asia and the Pacific islands of Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia.
May is significant to the AAPI community for two reasons. On May 7, 1843, the first Japanese immigrants arrived in the US. On May 10, 1869, — Golden Spike Day — the first transcontinental railroad in the US was completed, with significant contributions from Chinese workers.
While this month is the perfect time to celebrate Asian culture and diversity, it’s also important to debunk myths surrounding Asian communities.
How can you celebrate AAPI Month?
Several ways to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month include exploring AAPI history, reading books and watching movies with AAPI connections, and supporting your local AAPI community. You can also donate to support AAPI organizations. As an advisor, it’s important to get to know the communities you serve, so seek out literature and studies to help you understand the AAPI community.
However you choose to celebrate, you should lift and encourage those of Asian lineage and open yourself up to their perspectives.
AAPI advisors and influencers making a difference
It’s essential to welcome diverse perspectives in the wealth management industry – individuals from different cultures and backgrounds hold values and communication skills that are unique to them.
Community and family dynamics are integral to Asian cultures and should be considered in someone’s financial plans. The industry must continue to become a more diverse environment equipped to serve a vast array of cultures.
To read more about the importance of getting involved, read our post on how to be an ally or why diversity matters.