Celebrating APIDA Heritage Month

May 1, 2023

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Heritage Month, officially observed in May, is a time to recognize and honor the rich history, culture and contributions of individuals who trace their cultural roots to nations in Asia, the Pacific Islands and India. When we celebrate this time together, we take the opportunity to recognize and honor the diversity of our campus and the many ways in which APIDA members have positively impacted our communities and nation.  

With the rising number of anti-Asian hate crimes reported since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and the tragic Monterey Park shooting in January that left 11 APIDA individuals dead and nine injured, our APIDA community is also hurting. I call on the entire Bronco family to stand in solidarity with our APIDA community and uplift their voices to celebrate their lives. 

You can support the community by learning more about APIDA cultures and histories, buying from APIDA businesses and simply joining local cultural celebrations throughout the month. 

I also encourage you to make time to stop by the Asian & Pacific Islander Student Center to meet the students and staff and learn more about its resources and programming taking place this month — and all year round.  

Our university thrives on the diverse histories, experiences and perspectives that shape the culture of care that enhances the lives of our students, faculty and staff. I am proud of how we are shaped through our people, and I look forward to continuing to recognize and uplift all those who make our campus a place where we can help anyone who dreams of success achieve it. 

Sincerely,  

Soraya M. Coley, Ph.D.  

President, Cal Poly Pomona