The Division of Institutional Equity joins the Global Asias Initiative, The Mosaic and our many campus community members in recognizing and honoring Asian, Pacific Islander and Desi American Heritage Month.
Asian, Pacific Islander and Desi American Heritage Month is celebrated every May in the United States. It is a time dedicated to honoring the historical and cultural contributions of people with ancestry from across the Asian continent and the Pacific Islands. This observance also recognizes the rich histories, diverse cultures, and lasting impact of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders who have helped shape the nation, while providing space to reflect on the challenges these communities have faced and continue to navigate.
This month, the Division of Institutional Equity invites you to engage through our “Read, Watch, Listen, Participate” list to celebrate, connect, and explore.
To request accommodation(s) or to inquire about event accessibility, please get in touch with each program office directly. All sessions are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.
Events on campus
May 4 | Global Asias Symposium & Celebration
11 am - 12: 30 am | Fine arts 011 | Luncheon & Conversation on Asian experiences at UMBC
https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/globalasias/events/153238
1 pm - 2:15 pm | Fine arts 118 | Stories of Displacement: Unearthing Submerged Histories and Engaging Multiple Publics
https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/globalasias/events/153239
3 pm - 4:30 pm | Performing Arts & Humanities Building 216 | Global Asias in Dialogue
https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/globalasias/events/153240
5 pm - 6:30 pm | Library and Gallery, Albin O Kuhn | Global Asias Student Showcase & Reception
https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/globalasias/events/153241
May 13 | 11:30 am - 1 pm | Information Technology/Engineering
End-of-Year Lunch Meeting and Celebration
https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/aaafsc/events/153363
May 14 | 5:30 pm - 8 pm | University Center Ballroom 3rd Floor
Asian Cultural Celebration & Awards
https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/themosaic/events/152056
May 11 | 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm | Commons 004
“Stories we Carry”: AAPI Storytelling Circle https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/womenscenter/events/153761
Explore
Visit Baltimore’s Chinatown in downtown Baltimore to experience local Asian businesses, food, and cultural presence in the city.
Read
This reading list features powerful stories by Asian American and Pacific Islander authors, reflecting the diversity of cultures, histories, and lived experiences across the Asian continent and Pacific Islands.
-
The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri
-
Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
-
On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong
-
America Is Not the Heart by Elaine Castillo
-
Where We Once Belonged by Sia Figiel
Watch
This collection highlights the richness and diversity of Asian and Pacific American stories across cultures, regions, and lived experiences.
-
Minari
-
The Big Sick
-
The Farewell
-
Moana
-
Never Have I Ever
Listen
Through storytelling, culture, and conversation, these podcasts highlight the diverse voices and experiences within Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.