At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we are proud to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month every May. This month is a vibrant tribute to the cultures, achievements, and leadership of AANHPI communities. Their influence has deeply shaped the Puget Sound region—and our organization.
The Impact of AANHPI Communities in Washington
Washington State is home to one of the most dynamic AANHPI populations in the country. From shaping the region’s culinary identity and business innovation to enriching our arts and public service sectors, people of AANHPI heritage are integral to what makes our region thrive. According to the 2020 Census, nearly 13% of Washington’s population identifies as AANHPI.
The term “Asian American” itself encompasses an incredible range of nationalities, languages, histories, and faith traditions. This term represents peoples from the Indian subcontinent to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, East Asia, and beyond. While Chinese and Japanese Americans have long and well-known histories in the Pacific Northwest, the Puget Sound is full of vibrant communities of Korean, Vietnamese, Filipino, Indian, Pakistani, Thai, Cambodian, Hmong, Laotian, Burmese, and Indonesian Americans, among others. Each brings its own cultural richness, perspectives, and contributions to the Puget Sound region.
Notable leaders like Wing Luke—Seattle’s first Asian American city councilmember—paved the way for greater representation in public office. His legacy lives on through the Wing Luke Museum, which serves as a hub for cultural education and community connection. Today, AANHPI leaders continue to guide industries from tech and healthcare to the arts and public service, forging a future rich in innovation and cultural pride.
Honoring Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Communities
While often grouped together in data and national celebrations, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities represent distinct cultures, languages, and histories across the Pacific Ocean—including Hawai‘i, Samoa, Guam, Tonga, Fiji, and the Marshall Islands, among others. In Washington State, these communities have deep roots and a growing presence, particularly in South King County and the greater Tacoma area. Pacific Islander and Native Hawaiian residents contribute richly to our regional culture through music, dance, food, education, and spiritual leadership. Organizations like the Asia Pacific Cultural Center in Tacoma play a vital role in preserving and sharing these traditions while building cross-cultural understanding. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we value the ways these communities model intergenerational care, storytelling, and communal belonging—principles that align powerfully with our mission of mentorship. As we celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month, we are especially mindful to honor the unique contributions and voices of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youth and families across our region.
There is no single AANHPI experience, and recognizing that complexity is key to truly celebrating the full spectrum of AANHPI identities.
Mentorship Rooted in Belonging
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we see firsthand how cultural identity strengthens mentorship. Many of our Bigs and Littles come from AANHPI backgrounds, and their stories reflect resilience, creativity, and joy. We are committed to creating spaces where every young person and mentor feels they truly belong—where their heritage is not only acknowledged, but celebrated as a vital part of who they are and the contributions they will make.
When young people see themselves reflected in their mentors—or experience someone eager to learn and value their story—it builds confidence, strengthens identity, and fuels lifelong connection.
Upcoming AANHPI Heritage Month Events in the Seattle-Tacoma Region
To honor and celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month, numerous events are taking place throughout the Seattle-Tacoma region. These gatherings offer opportunities to engage with the rich cultures and traditions of AANHPI communities:
- BonsaiFEST!
May 10–11, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Pacific Bonsai Museum in Federal Way. Explore the art of bonsai with exhibits and demonstrations. https://pacificbonsaimuseum.org/events/bonsai-fest-2025/
- A Glimpse of China – Seattle Chinese Culture & Arts Festival
May 17, 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. at Seattle Center. Immerse yourself in Chinese culture through performances, food, and art. https://www.seattlecenter.com/events/featured-events/festal/a-glimpse-of-china
- Asian American Pacific Islander Community Day at the Seattle Aquarium
May 18, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Explore the Aquarium’s habitats and enjoy activities celebrating AAPI cultures. https://www.seattleaquarium.org/events/asian-american-pacific-islander-community-day/
- Olympia AANHPI Heritage Month Celebration
May 24, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. at The Evergreen State College Longhouse. Join in celebrating AANHPI heritage with performances and activities for the entire family. ParentMap+2ParentMap+2Asian Pacific Island+2
- Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival
May 31–June 1 at Seattle Center. One of the largest celebrations of Filipino culture in the region, featuring music, dance, and art. Northwest Asian Weekly
Continuing the Celebration Beyond May
While AANHPI Heritage Month provides a dedicated time to honor these communities, our commitment to fostering a sense of belonging is year-round. We encourage everyone to engage with AANHPI history and culture beyond May by visiting local cultural institutions, supporting AANHPI-owned businesses, and participating in community events.
Let’s work together to make the Puget Sound region a place where every individual’s heritage is celebrated and respected.
