Lines for Life Honors API Heritage Month

This May, Lines for Life celebrates the diverse cultures and rich histories of the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) community by honoring API Heritage Month.

Why May? May holds special significance for API heritage in America, as it commemorates the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in the United States in 1843 and the completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad in 1869 – made possible by the labor of Chinese immigrants.

We are excited to honor the countless contributions, accomplishments, and experiences of the many distinct API cultures, spanning over 50 ethnic groups and speaking more than 100 languages.

By participating in local events, learning about API cultures and histories, and supporting API-owned businesses, we can improve our understanding, dismantle stereotypes, and work to better support these communities.

Follow along as we celebrate API Heritage Month and highlight the critical work our staff and partners do to support us in promoting mental health in our region!

Learn More About API Cultures & Experiences with Mental Health

For more information and statistics about API mental health in the US, explore the AAPI Communities and Mental Health summary by Mental Health America. (Please note that important differences in culture are often blurred because data on API people are combined as one racial group.)

Anti-Asian hate incidents have surged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the latest report from Stop AAPI Hate, using community-generated data to track these incidents and their impact on mental health.

Stay tuned for blogs highlighting our staff and partners for API Heritage Month! Read related stories from our staff and partners.

Explore Community Resources

Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon (APANO) – Community advocacy organization with opportunities for leadership development and political and community involvement.

Asian Health and Service Center – Portland-based physical and behavioral health services for Asian American communities.

Project Lotus – A culturally-specific mental health advocacy organization offering education and peer support.

IRCO Pacific Islander and Asian Family Center– One-stop community center providing and promoting culturally relevant services to families.