Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is in May!
Event Description
Since 1978, the month of May has been a time to honor the heritage of Asian and Pacific Americans and their contributions to the United States. Originally a week-long Asian American Heritage Week, the celebration now lasts through the entire month.
Classroom Activity
Ask students to consider the portrayal of Asians in popular culture by focusing on characters in films and movies. Have students explore images from classic and contemporary films and then compare these images to the historical and cultural reference materials.
- Read Asian Images in Film with students and analyze still images and movie trailers shared to identify how and when Asians are included in Hollywood films.
- Have students consider the shortcomings of Hollywood portrayals as well as those that are accurate.
- Ask students to find historical and cultural reference materials covering topics similar to those in the film clips. Have students compare the film portrayals to the information that they find in other texts.
Websites
This Library of Congress site features resources on Asian Pacific American history and culture, including links to biographies in the Veterans History Project, contemporary Japanese paintings, and resources for teachers.
The Smithsonian Education site includes materials on ethnic heritage, world music, history, and the arts. Visitors can learn about Hawaiian Lu'aus, Chinese immigrants' participation in the American Gold Rush, and the art of Buddhism. Educational materials and lesson plans are also provided.
This article from the Asia Society explores the history of Asian Americans and their role in shaping the country.
Find great books written about a wide range of Asian and Pacific American cultural experiences for children and adolescents.
Watch online interviews with Asian American children's book authors.