Past Displays - Books: Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

The first Asians documented in the Americas arrived in 1587, when Filipinos landed in California. From then on, Asians and those of Pacific Islander descent were living in the Americas, from New York to Hawaii. May was designated a month to celebrate those of Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage, beginning in 1977. May was chosen for two reasons: On May 7, 1843, the first Japanese immigrant Nakahama Manjiro, arrived in the United States; and on May 10, 1869, the golden spike was driven into the first transcontinental railroad, which was completed using Chinese labor. Throughout this month, Asian and Pacific American communities are celebrated with community festivals, government-sponsored activities, and education in school.