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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, celebrated in May, honors the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). The month of May was selected to commemorate the first Japanese immigrant to the United States on May 7, 1843. It also marks the anniversary of the transcontinental railroad, completed on May 10, 1869; the majority of the track workers were Chinese immigrants. This is a time to recognize the resilience, achievements, and unique perspectives of AAPI communities, while also acknowledging the challenges they have faced and continue to overcome. The theme for 2024 is “Advancing Leaders Through Innovation'', a continuation of the "Advancing Leaders'' series that began in 2021. For additional resources and information, visit https://fapac.org/

Haitian Heritage Month

Haitian Heritage Month originated in May 1998 with the television program Tele Kreyol in Boston and has evolved into a nationwide commemoration of Haitian history and culture. Activities such as parades, flag raisings, and exhibits organized by Haitian-Americans United, INC. in New England and the efforts of the Haitian community in Palm Beach County, Florida, have propelled the celebration to a national level. For historical information on Haiti and Haitian Heritage Month, visit https://evidentchange.org/blog/haitian-heritage-month/

Jewish American Heritage Month

May is Jewish American Heritage Month. Established in 2006, it’s a time to celebrate the impact of Jewish Americans in various fields such as the arts, science, business, politics, and more. Throughout the month, events, exhibitions, lectures, and cultural programs highlight the diverse experiences and achievements of Jewish Americans. Jewish American Heritage Month remains relevant today, as a reminder of the importance of embracing diversity and promoting understanding. For information and resources, visit https://jewishamericanheritage.org/

Mental Health Month

To reduce the stigma around mental health and treatment, May is dedicated as Mental Health Month. Founded by Clifford W. Beers, the awareness month began as ‘Mental Health Week’ in 1949 and was first established to acknowledge the number of veterans suffering from mental illnesses after World War II. During Mental. According to Mental Health America, the theme for 2024 is Where to Start: Mental Health in a Changing World. As major events unfold, there are improvements and challenges, and despite growing openness about mental health in society, beginning self-care practices for personal well-being can still pose a significant challenge, leaving individuals uncertain about where to begin.  

Speech and Hearing Awareness Month

Every May, National Speech-Language-Hearing Month raises awareness of communication disorders, providing resources and educational information to those impacted by hearing and speech problems. The observance was founded in 1927 by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and was originally called ‘Better Hearing and Speech Month’ until May 2024. Information provided by ASHA includes, but is not limited to, signs and tips for hearing loss, signs and tips for speech and language disorders, stuttering in children, and information guides for families, friends, and partners, as well as toolkits to help with communication and identification. For information and resources, visit https://www.asha.org/national-speech-language-hearing-month/

National Military Appreciation Month

In the United States, National Military Appreciation Month is observed throughout May. The month is dedicated to honoring and recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of the men and women who serve or have served in the United States Armed Forces. In 1999, Congress selected the month of May for Military Appreciation Month because of several military-related observances, including Memorial Day and Loyalty Day. Thank you to all members who have served. 

5/5 Cinco de Mayo

Celebrated annually on May 5^th, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The odds were against the Mexican army, outnumbered with 4,500 soldiers against 6,000 armed French soldiers. The battle lasted from dawn to dusk, ending with Mexico’s victory. Cinco de Mayo is often misunderstood as Mexico’s Independence Day, which is actually celebrated on September 16^th. In Mexico, the holiday is primarily observed in the state of Puebla with traditional food like Molé Poblano, mariachi, block parties, and dances. However, in the United States, it has evolved into a celebration of Mexican-American culture, featuring parades, local events, and Mexican cuisine and drinks, like tacos, margaritas, and guacamole.

5/12  Mother's Day

Honoring mothers, motherhood, and maternal bonds, Mother’s Day is a time to show appreciation for the love, care, and sacrifice that mothers make for their children and families. Ann Jarvis was a driving force behind community improvement efforts during the Civil War, rallying women regardless of their husbands’ allegiances. In 1868, she worked to reconcile Confederate and Union neighbors. Inspired by her mother’s wish for a special day honoring mothers, Anna Jarvis campaigned extensively, securing support from influential figures like President Taft and John Wanamaker. In 1907, Mother’s Day services were held in West Virginia and Philadelphia, marking the beginning of a nationwide movement, and by 1914, Mother’s Day was officially recognized across the United States. To all the mothers and mother figures making a positive difference in the lives of others, thank you.

5/17 International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

Established in 2004, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) was created to shed light on the violence and prejudice faced by individuals with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. This day is observed in over 130 countries, including 37 where same-sex acts are deemed illegal, but initiatives ranging from large-scale events to grassroots efforts are reported worldwide. For additional information and resources, visit https://may17.org/

5/21 World Day for Cultural Diversity

The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, also abbreviated as the World Day for Cultural Diversity, is observed annually on May 21^st. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the day was created to “celebrate not only the richness of the world's cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development.” Cultural diversity is recognized as a driving force for sustainable development, fostering economic growth, and social unity. By promoting intercultural dialogue, societies can utilize the potential of diversity to address global challenges and build inclusive, resilient communities. For more information, visit https://www.un.org/en/observances/cultural-diversity-day

 5/23 Visakha Bucha Day (Vesak)

Visakha Bucha Day, also known as Vesak or Buddha Purnima, is one of the most important holidays in Buddhism. It commemorates three significant events in the life of Gautama Buddha: his birth, his enlightenment (Nirvana), and his death (Parinirvana). Visakha Bucha Day falls on the full moon of the sixth lunar month, according to the lunar calendar, and is celebrated through visits to temples with prayers, offerings, and candlelit processions, symbolizing the light of the Buddha’s teachings. In addition to its religious ceremonies, the day includes cultural activities such as traditional dances, music performances, and the display of colorful lanterns and flags.

5/27 Memorial Day

Since 1971, Memorial Day has been held on the last day of May, honoring the men and women who died serving the United States Armed Forces. In the late 1860s, communities across America held tributes to fallen soldiers of the Civil War, decorating their graves with flowers and declaring the event ‘Decoration Day.’ While the origins of this tradition remain unclear, historical records suggest that one of the earliest observances of Memorial Day occurred in Charleston, South Carolina, organized by formerly enslaved individuals after the Confederacy surrendered in 1865. However, despite this commemoration, the federal government officially recognized Waterloo, New York, as the birthplace of Memorial Day in 1966. Waterloo first celebrated Memorial Day on May 5, 1866, and was selected due to its longstanding tradition of holding a community-wide grave remembrance event. Over time, Decoration Day evolved into Memorial Day, honoring all American military personnel who died in service, not just those who died in the Civil War. Today, Memorial Day is marked by parades, adorning the graves of fallen soldiers with flags and flowers, and memorial services are held to honor their sacrifice. For more information, visit https://www.usmemorialday.org/ 

Your DEIA Commitee Members:

Shakema Appleton

Lisa Moore