Asian/Pacific Islander American Heritage Month
Stetson University College of Law values the cultural observances celebrated by community members and the many efforts to promote cross-cultural awareness and engagement. In honor of Asian American Heritage Month, we celebrate the diverse communities of Asian Americans who have helped shape life and culture at Stetson Law, in the legal profession, and beyond. May was chosen to commemorate the first individuals to immigrate to the United States from Japan on May 7, 1843. May also marks the anniversary of the transcontinental railroad's completion on May 10, 1869, due to the major contributions of Chinese Americans.
While this page is the result of a collaborative effort, it is not a comprehensive resource. We encourage students, faculty, and staff to explore other resources and to feel free to share those that may add to the richness of this page. Please email any insights to [email protected].
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Events | Learn | Engage | Resources
Events
Local Events
Tampa Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival
The City of Tampa Bay
May 11, 2024│ 10 AM-6:00 PM│Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park (600 N. Ashley Drive)
Join the city of Tampa Bay in celebrating Asian American, Pacific Islander, and South Asian communities. Don't miss out on the incredible cultural performances from various countries and Pacific islands, mouth-watering delicacies, and fascinating informational exhibits. This event is free and open to the public.
Online Events
A Journey through Ancient China
The Smithsonian
May 1, 8, 15, and 22│ 6:45 PM-8:15 PM│Zoom |$30
Historian Justin Jacobs takes you on a thematic tour of four important topics in ancient Chinese history: relations with nomads, sacred mountains, the civil service exams, and the maritime voyages of Zheng He.
Virtual Tour | Art Across Asian Cultures
The Smithsonian
May 2, 7, and 9│1 PM-2 PM│Zoom|Free
Join a free, docent-led, virtual tour to explore highlights of the museum’s collections that showcase the richness and diversity of Asian art. RSVP here.
Meditation and Mindfulness
The Smithsonian | The National Museum of Asian Art
May 3│1 PM-2 PM│Zoom |Free
Meditation helps us build a relationship to a place of inner quiet. Whether you’re a beginner or a skilled practitioner, join the Smithsonian for free online meditation sessions on Tuesdays and Fridays. RSVP here.
Learn
Looking back at Asian American history will show us how to move forward in the present (PBS, 2021) (Duration 1:30)
How to put the power of law in people's hands | Vivek Maru
Vivek Maru is working to transform the relationship between people and law, turning law from an abstraction into something that everyone can understand, use and shape (Ted Talk, 2018) (Duration: 19:43)
Pioneers and Advocates
AAPI Political Mobilization and Participation
The National Park Service
An essay that highlights the history of Asian and Pacific Islander participation in political mobilization
Lived & Learned: Present as your true self, says Mia Yamamoto
American Bar Association
Listen to Mia Yamamoto as she reflects on her experiences as a transgender Asian American woman and criminal defense attorney on the American Bar Association Podcast
Engage
Asian American Law Students Association
The Asian American Law Student Association is an organization committed to supporting Asian American law students and their colleagues. Our mission is to cultivate a supportive and empowering community for Asian American law students while promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the legal profession. We strive to foster a space that celebrates the rich diversity of Asian cultures, experiences, and perspectives through educational events and discussions, which we hope will deepen understanding and promote intercultural dialogue among students and the broader legal community. We hope to empower Asian American law students to excel academically, professionally, and personally. We provide opportunities to connect with legal professionals, alumni, and mentors, helping students build valuable relationships that will positively impact their legal careers. Membership in AALSA is open to all Stetson Law students regardless of race or ethnicity. Everyone is welcome to join AALSA!
Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Care Package
The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center
The Asian Pacific American Center curated a collection that features meditations, poems, and a short film among other offerings as a care package for Asian communities
Resources
Stetson Resources
Inclusive Excellence at Stetson Law - Learn more
Asian Pacific American Coalition (APAC) - Learn more
Community Resources
North American South Asian Law Students Association- Learn more