The District celebrates and recognizes the diversity of cultures of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage (AANHPI) - that's approximately 25.7 million people in the United States! The breadth of historical achievements among AANHPI enrich American history in all aspects of life.
The month of May was chosen to celebrate AANHPI heritage because of two historical events. On May 7, 1843, Manjiro Nakahama was the first known Japanese immigrant to arrive on United States soil. On May 10, 1869, many Chinese laborers constructed the transcontinental railroad that connected the eastern and western coasts of the United States. The anniversary of these two historical events led to a month long celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage.On April 28, 2023, the President of the United States issued a Proclamation on AANHPI Heritage Month, read it here.
