May holds significant importance in the Asian American community's history. In May 1843, the first Japanese immigrant set foot in the United States. Fast forward to May 1869, when the golden spike marked the completion of the first transcontinental railroad, a monumental achievement largely made possible by the labor of Asian workers.
Recognizing this rich heritage, in 2009, then-President Barack Obama signed Proclamation 8369, designating May as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, now known as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
In New Jersey, where 10% of the population is Asian American, a series of events (many of them free) will unfold throughout the month, celebrating the diversity and culture of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community in the Garden State.
Here's a glimpse of what's happening:
The Art of Listening: An Indian Classical Music Appreciation Workshop
- Date & Time: May 4, 1:30-3:00 p.m.
- Location: Rutherford Public Library, 150 Park Ave., Rutherford
- Organized by: Kulture Kool, a North Jersey-based South Asian performing arts school
- Registration: BCCLS website
Chinese Music Ensemble of New York Concert
- Date & Time: May 11, Time TBA
- Location: American Dream, 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford
- Description: Enjoy a free concert featuring traditional Asian heritage music.
2024 Holi Celebration of Colors
Date & Time: May 11, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (rain date: May 18, same time)
Location: Riverside Park, Reich Avenue and Brakeshoe Place, Mahwah
Description: Join in the festivities with music, dance, Indian snacks, refreshments, plant sales for Mother's Day, and activities for all ages. Register at the event webpage or call (201) 749-1990 for more information.
Bergen County AANHPI Heritage Month Celebration**
- Date & Time: May 23, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
- Location: Overpeck Park Amphitheater, Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park
- Description: Join Bergen County officials in honoring the trailblazers who have shaped AANHPI history and continue to influence the future.
Far East Deep South" Documentary Screening
- Date & Time: May 6, 6:00 p.m.
- Location: NJPAC, 1 Center St., Newark
- Description: Watch the award-winning documentary about a Chinese American family's journey to uncover their roots and discover a hidden immigrant community in the American South. Co-produced by NJPAC and the New Jersey Chapter of Ascend. Register on NJPAC's website.
AAPI Jazz Fest 2024
- Date & Time: May 18, 12:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
- Location: Express Newark (Hahne & Co. Building), 54 Halsey St., Newark
- Description: Enjoy a day-long celebration featuring AAPI musical artists, art, vendors, and more. Register on Eventbrite.
Lantern Festival for Justice and Remembrance
- Date & Time: May 19 (rain date: June 9)
- Location: Edgemont Park, Valley Road, Montclair
- Description: Join AAPI Montclair/New Jersey for a lantern festival commemorating justice and remembrance. Check the AAPI Montclair website for registration details.
These events offer opportunities to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Asian American and Pacific Islander culture, while also celebrating their contributions to New Jersey and beyond.