The month of May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. In commemoration of this rich cultural heritage, Heersink Office for Diversity Inclusion AAPI Faculty Association hosted an educational and celebratory event open to everyone at the school.
With over 150 guests, the event commenced with a welcome from the AAPI faculty association chairs, Daniel Chu, M.D., professor in the Department of Surgery, and Shuko Harada, M.D., professor in the Division of Genomic Diagnostics and Bioinformatics.
The faculty association chairs gave a warm welcome to the eight Alabama Asian societies and organizations that were in attendance. Representatives from these organizations were present to help educate people about the various community groups that support AAPI members in Alabama. The many organizations also demonstrate the diversity within AAPI.
Guests then heard from the event’s keynote speaker Hina Zaidi, curatorial assistant and exhibition curator, from the Birmingham Museum of Art.
Zaidi presented a slideshow about the museum’s Asian art collections and discussed the work and impact of Asian American and Pacific Islander artists in the art community.
Guests watched live performances, including traditional Chinese dance, traditional Indian dance, Korean songs, and more. Guests also participated in table demonstrations, such as Japanese ikebana, calligraphy and origami. They also enjoyed viewing a beautiful bonsai exhibit and fascinating anime art.
The event showcased unique AAPI stories and traditions and served as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and preserving cultural heritage.