As we continue to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month, we had the pleasure to sit down with one of our employees and staff member, Tam Trinh, one of our Recruiters on the JeffreyM Staff, to hear about what AAPI Month means to her.
- What does Asian American and Pacific Islanders Month mean to you?
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- Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is all about honoring our own history and acknowledging the incredible contributions our culture has made to the world. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to come together and celebrate the diverse cultures, traditions, and history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Personally, this month holds great significance for me as it encourages cultural understanding, gives us a chance to reflect, and fosters a sense of community involvement.
- Are there any specific events or traditions that are important to you during this time or throughout the year?
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- As a Vietnamese-American, I absolutely love celebrating my cultural identity during Tết, also known as Lunar New Year. It’s a time when my family comes together, and we indulge in delightful Vietnamese cuisines, exchange little red envelopes, and visit the temple to seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead. One of my mom’s cherished traditions is thoroughly cleaning the house before Tết, symbolizing the fresh start of the new year by tidying up. It’s believed to ward off any ill fortune and welcome a wave of good luck for the upcoming year.
- How can the community celebrate and bring awareness to Asian American and Pacific Islanders Month beyond just this month?
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- AAPI heritage month is a wonderful opportunity to recognize and appreciate the impact and contributions of Asians and Pacific Islanders to American history. However, celebrating and raising awareness about underrepresented communities shouldn’t be limited to just this month. If we join forces, we can strive to provide continuous support, value diverse cultures, and uplift one another all year round. It’s important to foster ongoing education and efforts that promote inclusivity. Supporting and caring for all underrepresented communities should be an ongoing goal, regardless of the month or day.
