May is AAPI month, which celebrates the culture, contributions, and achievements of those from East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
“AAPI month is important to me, especially because it truly shows my heritage and represents the culture that I am from while also reflecting where my family and parents have come from,” junior Anwita Das said. “I don’t really celebrate, but it is a good month to celebrate the cultures of all countries in Asia.”
Since a large proportion of the student body is Asian, senior Nicole Dsilva feels that the month is especially relevant.
“I think AAPI month is important because it celebrates a lot of people’s diverse backgrounds,” Dsilva said. “It’s a time to learn more about other people’s cultures. And especially in Frisco, there’s a high density of Asian Americans, so it’s very relevant to our surroundings and everybody here.”
For senior Mary Katherine Sacil, even though she doesn’t do anything in particular to celebrate, she still finds value in the month every year when it comes around.
“I think AAPI month is great,” Sacil said. “It’s not something I necessarily keep track of or celebrate, but to me it’s more like a nice little surprise that comes around every year that allows me to reflect on my culture and my identity.”
Sacil feels that it would be a nice change to have more awareness about the month.
“I suppose more awareness is always a good thing,” Sacil said. “I feel as though not many individuals are aware of AAPI month, as not many people talk about it too often. Maybe some posters of famous Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders could help spread awareness.”
