Students of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage make up 32% of the student body at the University of the Pacific. These include international and exchange students born in foreign countries, first generation Americans who are the children of immigrants, and students whose families have been in the country for centuries. In addition to this breadth of different experiences with immigration and identity, many different Asian and Pacific Islander ethnicities are represented on campus. The Asian Pacific Islander community is diverse and vibrant, yet sometimes overlooked. Media representation of Asian Americans, with all the stereotypes of docility and submissiveness and the pervasive myth of the model minority, has affected not only others' perception of Asian Americans but too often Asian Americans' perception of themselves. Black History Month was created to celebrate the achievements and contributions of black people and through that celebration to give black youth a more positive self image. Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month is attempting to do the same. It is a celebration of our diversity and at the same time a call to action.
APIHM kicks off today, Friday, March 22, with an opening ceremony held at the DUC Ballroom from 4 - 7 PM. There will be performances from API student organizations, and a set from Bay area R&B band LEGACI. Afterwards there will be a hAPI hour with organizations tabling and free Asian food!
Check out some Legaci tunes on their Youtube page.
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You can find the Pacific Multicultural Center on Facebook, Twitter, or at the McCaffrey Center located centrally on Pacific's campus.
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