Mark Lacey’s Post

National Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! May marks the arrival of commemorating National Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in the U.S. This annual celebration honors the importance of recognizing the diverse histories, traditions, and significant impacts from the AAPI community. Additionally important, this annual event serves as a platform to highlight the community’s integral role in shaping the fabric of American culture and progress. At SoFi, our employee resource group, SNAP (SoFi’s Network for Asian-American and Pacific Islanders), is highlighting the resilience, adaptability, and forward-thinking spirit of the AAPI community.  This theme assists in emphasizing the continuous process of learning, refining, and innovating that leads to progress and success. In a rapidly changing world, this theme of iteration underscores the importance of embracing change, seeking improvement, and adapting to new challenges, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the AAPI community in overcoming  various historical obstacles that have tried to discount the many significant contributions made by the community to our global society.

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Let’s honor the rich culture, diversity, and contributions of AAPI communities. To learn more about the origins of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, visit asianpacificheritage.gov today. #AAPI

As May unfolds, the United States gears up to honor the rich tapestry of Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage throughout the nation. This annual commemoration, known as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI Heritage Month), shines a spotlight on the remarkable historical and cultural contributions made by individuals and groups of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. The term "AAPI" encompasses a diverse array of cultures spanning the Asian continent—from East, Southeast, and South Asia—as well as the Pacific Islands of Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. This month holds particular significance as it marks the anniversary of pivotal moments in Asian American history. On May 7, 1843, the first Japanese immigrants set foot in the United States, laying the foundation for generations to come. Additionally, May 10, 1869, commemorates Golden Spike Day, symbolizing the completion of the transcontinental railroad, a monumental achievement fueled by the labor of Chinese workers. According to the latest data from the 2020 U.S. Census, the Asian American and Pacific Islander community boasts a population of approximately 20.6 million individuals residing in the United States. Embracing the theme of "Advancing Leaders Through Innovation," the 2024 edition of AAPI Heritage Month aims to spotlight the pioneering spirit and ingenuity prevalent within the community. For those seeking further insights and resources, the Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) stands as a valuable resource hub.

This month we celebrate the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) communities, whose ingenuity, grit, and perseverance have made on-going progress and pushed things forward. The theme for the 2024 National AANHPI Heritage Month is “Advancing Leaders Through Innovation.” This theme pays tribute to visionaries and trailblazers who have shaped AANHPI history and continue to influence our collective future. AANHPI leaders have made lasting contributions to the nation’s economic prosperity, technological advancements, and social and political change through their ingenuity and creativity, overcoming cultural and systemic barriers. (FAPAC Announcement https://lnkd.in/eQt46au9) The White House: A Proclamation on Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month, 2024 (April 30, 2024) https://lnkd.in/eND6xQM8 #globaleconomy #sustainableinvesting #NaturePeopleandPlanet #AseanNations

As May comes to an end, let's not forget the importance of celebrating the rich heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the US! 🌏 Their historical and cultural contributions have significantly enriched our society. Here's to continuous appreciation of AAPI communities' vibrant cultures all year round! 6 Impactful Ways to Celebrate and Honor AAPI Communities >> https://ow.ly/PjLJ50S0Tih

"As a Bengali American, I'm endlessly grateful for the beautiful fusion of values and traditions that define my identity." Read on to learn more about Tasmima Hossain, a Consultant on our Data & Analytics team, and the next spotlight in our Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month series. What is your favorite AAPI fact? Tas: The "Asian/Pacific American" designation encompasses over 50 ethnic or language groups, including native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders. I think it’s important to recognize that AAPI is not a monolith but rather a collection of unique cultures and subcultures. We should understand and celebrate the richness and complexity of this community. How has your heritage shaped who you are today?   Tas: My heritage is a deeply integral part of who I am; it has both shaped my identity and influenced my understanding of the world. As a Bengali American, I'm endlessly grateful for the beautiful fusion of values and traditions that define my identity. In Bengali culture, community is everything. That deep sense of belonging and togetherness has been ingrained within me, leading me to care for those around me and appreciate our multicultural society. Why is it important to have diverse representation in the corporate world? Tas: Diverse representation is essential, not only in the corporate world but everywhere else too. When people from different backgrounds are represented, it reflects the reality of our world and promotes inclusivity. Moreover, seeing individuals who share their backgrounds in various fields can inspire younger generations and make them feel supported, encouraging them to pursue their aspirations with confidence. #AAPIHeritageMonth #ExpertsWithImpact #TeamFTI

In May, we come together to honor the rich cultures, histories and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the United States. This annual celebration recognizes the remarkable impact that AAPI individuals have made across various fields, from arts and sciences to politics and business. Origins and History:  The journey to officially recognize AAPI contributions began in the late 1970s. It took over a decade to establish a permanent month-long celebration. Here’s how it unfolded:  Asian-Pacific American Heritage Week: In 1977, New York Representative Frank Horton introduced House Joint Resolution 540, proposing the first 10 days of May as Asian-Pacific American Heritage Week. Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye introduced a similar resolution the same year. President Jimmy Carter signed it into law in 1978. Expanding to a Month: From 1980 to 1990, each president issued annual proclamations for Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. In 1990, Congress expanded the observance to an entire month. Thus, May was officially designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month in 1992 under the George H.W. Bush administration. In 2009, it was renamed to AAPI Month.  Let’s embark on a journey of discovery and learning. It’s a time to delve deeper into the stories, achievements and traditions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Together, let’s celebrate their indelible mark on our society and draw inspiration from their enduring spirit.  Wen Stenger 🏳️🌈 Balaji Thiagarajan TechDigital #AsianAmericanPacificIslandersMonth #AAPI #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion    

Today is the beginning of this year’s Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. It is a celebration that recognizes the historical and cultural contributions of people of Asian and Pacific Islander descent to the United States. I came to United States, alone, from Hong Kong when I was still a teenager. With the guidance, support, and generosity of its multitude of citizens who showed me the wonderfulness of a pluralistic country, I learned how to fit in, then to belong, and now I truly can say I have become who I want to be.  “Citizenship is not about where we were born or what documents we have. It's about how we show up to make American life worth the pursuit. It's about knowing our values, understanding the systems around us, and having the skills to change them. And then passing it on.”  The best part of this country is that even when Americans are sharply divided on the means, most Americans truly love this country and want to make it better. The pioneer spirit still burns within us. Right now there are children playing with toys who will grow up to work in laboratories. They will come up with cures for cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's.      “As we strive to create a more civil public discourse, a more adaptable and creative workforce, and a more secure nation, the humanities and social sciences are the heart of the matter, the keeper of the republic—a source of national memory and civic vigor, cultural understanding and communication, individual fulfillment and the ideals we hold in common. They are critical to a democratic society, and they require our support.” - Commission on the Humanities & Social Sciences of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. #AAPIHeritageMonth

As National Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, May is dedicated to learning about the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) throughout our history, as well as recognizing the barriers and discrimination they have faced and continue to face, including in housing and real estate. Click here for some ways you can learn about AAPI history and continue to help work toward positive change in our industry and communities: https://ow.ly/Z0Pa50Ru013