Each year, Indiana University celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, honoring the contributions of people of Asian descent and the history of Asian people in this country. Traditionally observed in May, Indiana University elects to celebrate in April so students, staff and faculty can experience the many programs and events before the end of the semester.
The 2023 observance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month allows students, faculty and community members to take a stand against anti-Asian narratives, uplift and amplify the stories and experiences of AAPI and promote awareness of the diverse experiences of Asian American and Asian diaspora.
Several special events and programs will be held throughout April and beyond, including:
Asia Day at IU Northwest on April 4, 2023, at Moraine Student Center, IU Northwest, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Since 2005, Asia Day has been a day to celebrate global diversity with an afternoon of Asian food, music and culture.
Movement: Asian American and Pacific Islander Short Film Festival on April 5, 2023, at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, Bloomington, at 7 p.m. The MOVEMENT series grapples with themes of identity, belonging and power from the perspectives of AAPI directors, screenwriters, actors and subjects and invites audiences to consider the multifaceted vibrancies and complexities of AAPI individuals and communities.
Speaking of Excellence Lecture Series featuring George Takei on April 27, 2023, at the IU Auditorium, Bloomington, at 7:00 p.m. The Speaking of Excellence Series, featuring George Takei, has been made possible by a gift to the LGBTQ+ Culture Center and will be co-sponsored with IU Union Board, the Asian Culture Center, IU Libraries and the Kinsey Institute. Legendary actor, activist, author and speaker, Takei is best known for his portrayal of Mr. Sulu in the acclaimed television and film series Star Trek. His acting career has spanned five decades, and he has appeared in more than 40 feature films and hundreds of TV appearances.
Asian Heritage Fashion Show at IUPUI on April 30, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Indianapolis Arts Garden. The Asian Student Union celebrates Asia's historically rich heritages and cultures on the IUPUI campus. The show will also include entertainment to enhance the interactivity of the event.
A detailed listing is available at events.iu.edu.
These efforts aim to foster a sense of belonging by recognizing and celebrating the diverse stories and histories of AAPIs on IU’s campuses and in the communities. Moreover, opportunities will be provided to collaborate with minority groups and allies in developing and exploring ways to address anti-Asian racism, myths and stereotypes.
“Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is about remembering and honoring the contributions of people of Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage. It is a time to reflect on the history and potential of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community in this country,” says James C. Wimbush, vice president for diversity, equity and multicultural affairs and Johnson Chair for Diversity and Leadership at Indiana University. “It’s also a reminder of the work that remains to be done regarding inclusion and equity and to support Asian American and Pacific Islander voices.”
Visit diversity.iu.edu to learn more.