This Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Month, Two Rivers reflected on the theme, “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together.” In doing so, we celebrated the immense role AANHPIs have played in history, with the goal that students would develop a greater understanding, empathy, and acceptance among diverse communities.
AANHPI Heritage Month
Wondering how AANHPI Heritage Month was first commemorated? Let’s begin with some facts about the month.
The idea of AANHPI Heritage Month surfaced in 1977–1978 when five joint resolutions were introduced in Congress proposing that a week in May be set aside to honor the achievements of AANHPIs. In 1979, President Carter issued the first presidential proclamation of the week, highlighting their contributions to the arts, sciences, and government spaces. Finally, in 1992, Congress passed Pub.L. 102-450, making May of every year “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.”
Source: FAPAC – AAPI Resources
AANHPI Heritage Month at Two Rivers
Two Rivers began celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in 2021. Since then, we’ve continued to integrate AANHPI history into our classrooms throughout the month of May.
This year, Two Rivers engaged students with two initiatives. Each week, crews explored interactive slide decks, with each one capturing different AANHPI themes. Students learned about traditional food, festivals, music, and clothing. While cultures may differ through traditions, crews reflected on how those differences reveal a multitude of similarities that unite humanity.
In addition to the slide decks, our second initiative allowed crews to live out our Scholarly Habit, I can connect and collaborate. Students in 2G-5G paired with PS -1G crews, and read books centered on AANHPI perspectives. Guided reflection questions and dialogue aided students in discovering the overarching message of each text.
More than simply learning about the vast contributions of the AANHPI community, this was an opportunity to learn better together and build meaningful connections across grade levels throughout the school.
As AANHPI Heritage Month comes to a close, Two Rivers remains committed to intentionally exposing our students to diverse perspectives. We strive to help students recognize the value of all cultures, connect how our differences add substance to humanity, and continue to create a sense of belonging.
~Isa Walker, Communications Associate
