Currently: 39°F
Although May is officially Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month, the University observes it in April to allow time to acknowledge this important month on campus. The Asian Student Inclusivity Association, also known as ASIA, is one of the clubs that helps to celebrate the cultures highlighted during APIDA month.
The ASIA club is a safe space for students who identify as Asian, Asian-American, Pacific Islander or are allies of the community. Jacob Garcia, the president of ASIA, explains the club’s importance on campus. “It provides students with a great opportunity to learn about and experience aspects of Asian culture regardless of race. It’s also a safe space for students to relax, make friends and often fill their stomachs with delicious Asian cuisine.”
Garcia also emphasizes the importance of celebrating APIDA month. “I believe it is important to recognize APIDA month in general and at MU because it highlights various Asian cultures, even those that are often underrepresented. It also helps bring awareness to many of the issues the APIDA community faces and educates people about the APIDA community to combat stereotypes and ignorance.”
Throughout April, a few events are happening in the MU community:
- The President’s Commission on Cultural Diversity & Inclusion Spring Gathering will be held on April 23 from 4 – 7 p.m. in the SMC Atrium to celebrate students, faculty and staff of color.
- APIDA Heritage Month Student Meetup is on Wednesday, April 24, from 5 – 7 p.m. in SMC Room 118.
- On April 4, the Intercultural Center held the APIDA Heritage Month Exhibit, where attendees could learn about APIDA figures and histories related to activism.
- And on April 20 the South Korea Brush Theatre performed at the MU Ware Center.
