May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month— a time to recognize the history, achievements and cultural contributions of AANHPI communities across the United States.
The Federal Asian Pacific American Council’s 2026 theme: “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together” highlights the importance of collective power, storytelling and bridge-building in the AANHPI communities. This year’s theme artwork features a bridge symbolizing innovation, resilience, hard work, connection and belonging.
May was chosen to commemorate two historic milestones:
- May 7, 1843 – the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States
- May 10, 1869 – the completion of the transcontinental railroad, built largely by Chinese immigrant laborers
Explore Resources
Johnson County Library has an extensive collection of books, films and digital tools to support learning, connection and celebration throughout the month.
Watch
Asian American & Pacific Islander Stories on Kanopy – Documentaries and films exploring history, culture and contemporary issues.
Read
- Fighting to Belong! Vol. 1 by Amy Chu
- Incredible: Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Who Changed the World by Maia Shibutani
- A Child's Introduction to Asian American and Pacific Islander History by Naomi Hirahara
- Asian Americans in the Twenty-first Century: Oral Histories... by Joann Faung Jean Lee
- A curated collection of children’s graphic novels celebrating AANHPI heritage
- Browse more books/eBooks and audiobooks/eAudiobooks through the extensive eLibrary
Learn
- Library of Congress Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Materials – A digital archive of reference works, periodicals and other print items
- CultureGrams – Information on history, culture and geography of American states, Canadian provinces, countries and regions of the world.
- National Archives AAPI Heritage Month – Access government records and primary sources
- Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Kansas City – Events and programs to network and broaden your business perspective
- Fountain of Life Senior Community Center – Programs for Asian seniors in the Greater Kansas City area
AANHPI Heritage Month is a meaningful opportunity to explore histories and perspectives that enrich our community. Visit any Johnson County Library location or explore our website to discover more resources, events and materials throughout May.
