Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month

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The California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) and its supporting departments, invite you to celebrate Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Through virtual and in-person events, CNRA departments, commissions, and conservancies will be honoring Asian leaders in the environmental field, who work to protect the environment for current and future generations and encourage others to become environmental stewards.

Title: Community Volunteer Day at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma

Description: Celebrate AAPI Month with us on a wildfire resiliency project to protect significant cultural resources at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. Community volunteers will work with on-site State Parks staff clearing vegetation and placing a fire-resistant border surrounding the Wah Hop and Man Lee historical buildings. 

When: Sunday, May 19. Volunteer rotations begin from 9 AM-12 PM or 10:30 AM-12 PM. Guided tour of Gam Saan hike or Gold Discovery Museum visit at 12:30 PM

Where: 310 Back Street, Coloma, CA 95613 (precise location in the registration link below).

Registration and details: https://x.gldn.io/e/avfquNVDUIb

 

Title:  Film Screening: Far East Deep South

When: Tuesday, May 28 - 4 pm to 6 pm

Description: Celebrate AAPI Month with a special screening of “Far East Deep South,” an award-winning documentary following a Chinese American family’s journey from California to Mississippi to uncover their family’s history. Along the way, they meet a diverse group of local residents and historians who help them discover how deep their roots run in America. Filmmaker Baldwin Chiu will be present to discuss his vision for the film and participate in a Q&A with audience members. Details on the documentary: https://fareastdeepsouth.com/

Where: CNRA Auditorium (Screening) and CNRA First Floor Lobby (Social)

Title: Secretary Speaker Series Preserving Heritage - Unveiling the Narrative of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in California

Description: Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) history in California, focusing on the invaluable work of the Office of Historic Preservation (OHP) in uncovering, preserving, and celebrating the diverse narratives of AAPI communities throughout the state. California's history is intricately woven with the stories of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, whose contributions have shaped the cultural, economic, and social landscape of the Golden State. From the early immigrants who labored on farms and railroads to the vibrant communities that thrive today, the AAPI presence is deeply embedded in California's identity. Embark on a journey through time with us as we uncover the untold stories of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have left an indelible mark on California's past, present, and future.

When: Wednesday, May 29 from 12 to 1 pm

Zoom: https://ca-water-gov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uQZgU5xuTseoI2hDpQCirw

Title: Career Pathways for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders at CNRA - Past, Present and Future in Conservation

Date and time: Thursday, May 30, 12 to 1:30 PM

Description: Hear from Asian American and Pacific Islander state employees on how they came to work at CNRA departments, the work culture, and good advice regarding careers in public service. 

Register in advance for this webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vc_1Y_j3QzegAEkxMhtcXg

AAPI Heritage Month Logo

     

Asian American & Pacific Islander Month

About AAPI Heritage Month
May is AAPI Heritage Month, honoring the contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islanders to our history, society and culture. This year’s theme is “A Seat at the Table,” which highlights the AAPI community’s advancements and achievements, and calls for their continued equity and inclusion in society. The theme also highlights the importance of family gatherings and sharing meals in Asian cultures.
The logo’s colors and flowers represent the diversity of Asian cultures across the U.S. The lotus flower is a sacred symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, often symbolizes purity and enlightenment and is found throughout India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. Cherry blossoms are symbolic of the ephemeral nature of life and are an attraction in numerous countries across Asia, including Japan which celebrates cherry blossom viewing. Plumerias are considered sacred in Southeast Asia, symbolize new beginnings and are used to make leis in many Pacific Islands including Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Hawaii, New Zealand, Tonga, and the Cook Islands.