May is Asian, Pacific American Heritage Month Published April 15, 2008 By Capt. Celeste Snyder Equal Opportunity TUCSON, Ariz. -- During the month of May, the 162nd Fighter Wing celebrates Asian, Pacific American Heritage Month and the 30th anniversary since its establishment as a federal special observance. This program gives federal organizations the opportunity to commemorate the culture and contributions of Asians and Pacific Islanders to our Nation. Asian, Pacific Americans encompass many different ethnicities. They include cultures from the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia. The recognition of Asian and Pacific heritage was established by President Jimmy Carter in October of 1978 by a Joint Resolution. The annual event initially occurred during the first ten days of May. In 1990, President George H.W. Bush expanded it to the entire month. The month of May was selected because of two significant events in United States history. The arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States began during May of 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in May of 1869, which was built primarily by Chinese immigrants. This May the Equal Opportunity Office is teaming up with various community organizations to offer two opportunities for wing members to enjoy APA Heritage Month during the May Unit Training Assembly. On May 3, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., the University of Arizona Vietnamese Students Association will offer a fashion show of various Vietnamese costumes in the dining facility. On May 4, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., the Na Wahine I Ka Nani O Tucson Polynesian Dance Group and the Davis-Monthan Philippines Dancers will perform traditional dances in the dining facility. For additional information regarding these events contact the Equal Opportunity Office at 295-6265.