AAPI Heritage Month in Chula Vista: what does AAPI Heritage Month mean to me?, by Candace Thrower.

AAPI Heritage Month in Chula Vista: What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to me?

By Candace Thrower

The National Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is celebrated annually in May and this year, we take time to recognize and celebrate the many efforts, contributions, the diverse cultures and the rich histories of the Asian American and Pacific Islander people. In Chula Vista, we believe that our communities grows stronger and more bonded when everyone feels at home, feels welcomed and work together for the common good. In light of this, what does AAPI Heritage Month mean to me?

Like so many other major events, it’s possible that the AAPI Heritage Month could just slip away, without really giving it much thought. But this year it feels different especially happening at a time when the Asian Americans are facing racism and discrimination at its worst! The experiences and ordeals by the AAPI people is creating powerful conversations across the nation about the place of the AAPIs in our communities.

Many families in the US in the 60s-70s grew up in environment that wasn’t really diverse which means many have been struggling to grasp how the Asian, Chinese or the Pacific Islanders

live. This is true for many Baby Boomers, Generation X and part of the Millennial Generation. Naturally, people fear what they do not understand and with fear comes chaos, look at the Civil Rights movement in the 60s and 70s. Therefore, since at the time our communities were not racially integrated, it was hard to appreciate the contribution of the AAPI community.

In Chula Vista, we take time to celebrate the differences that make our country and communities beautiful. It is a time to remember the AAPI legacy that dates as early as 1843 with the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to America. Ever since, the AAPI people have been making their stamp on the legacy of the American History more felt especially as the Chinese Laborers preserved some of the most horrific working conditions in 1869. Throughout history, the AAPI community has faced discrimination, exploitation and exclusion. But May which is the commemorative month serves as a reminder of these contributions and I feel that it’s about time we came forward more to honor AAPI community and share in their experiences and also remind ourselves that diversity not only enriches us, but is a fundamental part of the American story.

In Chula Vista, the AAPI community is one of the fastest growing community accounting for at least 17 percent of the total population. We see their mark on this country in business, science, education, sports and in various other industries. Through the AAPI’s rich and diverse culture, we experience and enhanced aspect of the American Experience from cuisine to medical care.

In light of this, something darker stained the legacy of the American story which shadows the accomplishments and contributions of the AAPI community in this country.

The recent pandemic brought with it a rise in discrimination, racism and acts of violence against the AAPI community. Remember, the American story is one of different races and people coming together but it’s saddening to see a community suffer backlash and become a target of so much negativity and blame. Because of this covid-19 related bigotry many Asian American and Pacific Islander people are afraid of doing simple activities for instance walking outside, going to the malls, going to buy groceries, taking public transportation and so much more. What’s hurting is the fact that even some of the frontline workers who were extremely instrumental in the fight against the virus were not spared this senseless discrimination.

SO WHAT DOES THE AAPI HERITAGE MONTH MEAN TO ME?

Well, it serves as a reminder that Chula Vista wouldn’t be Chula Vista without AAPI’s positive influence on and the contributions to the American History. Right now, more than ever, it is important that we recognize the AAPI culture as an important faction of the diverse cultures that are instrumental in driving this country towards success. For me, I’ll go out to celebrate and learn about the AAPI community and help bring awareness to the hardships that the community has experienced throughout history.

Now more than ever, I am proud to be part of this celebration!