AAPI Heritage Month

Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month occurs every year during the month of May to celebrate, uplift, and educate others about the complex history and identities of those in the AAPI community. Due to the nature of our academic schedule, the Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion (CMEI) recognizes AAPI Heritage Month during the month of April. The CMEI and our partners collaborate every year to create programming surrounding the experiences and issues of the AAPI community. Through our events, we celebrate the vast diversity within the AAPI identity and bring to light issues that our community is experiencing in order to grow and heal. 

Tri-Institutional Events: Open to the Auraria Campus and Community – For events opened to the Auraria campus and community sponsored by the University of Colorado Denver, please visit the Asian American Student Services within the Center for Identity & Inclusion.

AAPI Heritage Month Kick-Off  

Wednesday, April 3rd | 11:30AM – 1:00PM | Tivoli Multicultural Lounge 257

Open to the public, no registration required  

Join us as the Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion and the University of Colorado Denver Center for Identity and Inclusion proudly invites you to our AAPI Kick-Off event, a vibrant celebration of the rich culture and community of Asia Pacific Islander American (AAPI) heritage. Immerse yourself in a day filled with music, diverse external vendors, and delectable cuisine as we honor the tapestry of traditions that define the AAPI experience.

This event isn’t just about celebration; it’s also about empowerment. Discover an array of valuable community resources tailored for Auraria students, families, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members alike. From academic support to cultural enrichment, these resources are designed to uplift and unite our diverse community.

All are welcome to join us throughout the day to pay homage to the beauty and diversity of the 48 countries that comprise Asia. Whether you can stay for the entire event or just drop by, your presence will help us create a vibrant tapestry of unity and celebration. Let’s come together to honor, learn, and celebrate the rich tapestry of AAPI culture!

Breaking Through Modern Asian American Gender Roles

Thursday, April 4th | 2 – 3:30PM | Student Commons Building 1401

What modern cultural and societal pressures affect what it means to be an Asian American man, woman, or gender-nonconforming individual? Societal stereotypes assume Asian Americans to act a certain way, and cultural factors push certain roles and expectations onto us. With all these outside influences, how are ways that you can reclaim your own identity?

Visiting Artist Series: Gamelan Tunas Mekar

Saturday, April 6th | 7PM | King Center Concert Hall | Tickets $15-25

Based in Denver, Colorado, Gamelan Tunas Mekarn is a community ensemble under the direction of Balinese composer and Artist-in-Residence I Made Lasmawan and family. The group presents traditional and new music for Balinese gamelan at music festivals, schools, private events, local venues, specially produced concerts, and by special invitation both internationally and nationally. Modeled after typical village groups found throughout Bali, and learning by traditional methods, this community ensemble provides American audiences the rare opportunity to experience one of the world’s most fascinating cultures.

Let the Good Times Roll: Kimbap Making

Wednesday, April 10th | 2:30 – 3:30PM | Tivoli 640

Join us for a culinary experience as we delve into the art of making kimbap, a beloved Korean dish that beautifully marries flavors, textures, and colors. During this interactive demonstration, you’ll learn the secrets behind crafting perfect kimbap rolls from start to finish.

Owner and Founder of Koco Street Food Olivia Boah will guide you through each step of the process and selecting the freshest ingredients to master the art of rolling and slicing with precision. Along the way, you’ll discover the cultural significance of kimbap and gain insight into the diverse range of fillings and variations that can be incorporated into this versatile dish.

Register in advance for the in-person cooking class as seats are limited.

APIDA/AAPI Student, Faculty and Staff Social

Wednesday, April 10th | 3:30 – 5PM | Tivoli 640

Open to MSU Denver students, faculty and staff who identify as Asian; no registration required

We extend a warm invitation to individuals of Asian Pacific Islander Desi American heritage to come together and join us in fostering a vibrant sense of community. We welcome you to share in our collective experiences, traditions, and stories, as we celebrate the richness and diversity of our cultural backgrounds. As we gather, delectable food and refreshing beverages will be provided. Whether you’re reconnecting with familiar faces or meeting new acquaintances, our space is open and inclusive to all who wish to join in this enriching exchange of culture and camaraderie. Let us come together to create memories, deepen our understanding, and build a stronger, more united community.

 AAPI Representation in Music and the Arts

Wednesday, April 10th | 4:30PM – 6:30PM | Emmanuel Art Gallery

This panel seeks to elevate AAPI artists who will discuss their careers, perspectives, and experiences as living artists, address barriers within the arts for AAPI artists and discuss how to take action towards change and participate in an interactive Q&A with the audience.

Korea Goes Global: Exploring the Korean Wave, from Samsung to K-Pop

Tuesday, April 23rd | Noon – 1PM | Tivoli Multicultural Lounge

Catch the Korean Wave! In the 21st century, the South Korean government, along with Korean corporations and artists, have focused on the strategic creation and global export of popular culture, a.k.a. The Korean Wave (Hallyu). Political scientist Tony Robinson explains the concepts of “soft power” and “creative economy” in regard to the Korean Wave project and how the city of Seoul is defining a global era.

Transforming Intergenerational Trauma for Community Healing

Tuesday, April 30th | Noon – 1PM | Student Commons Building 1401

Intergenerational trauma affects many API communities and individuals regarding their mental health, relationships, and wellbeing. In this panel, members of the Wellness Emotional Alignment and Intergenerational Healing (WEALTH) research team will share their personal and professional experiences in healing intergenerational trauma within the Vietnamese American community. The conversation will also broadly reflect on ways to address and transform historical patterns of trauma within different API communities. Importantly, we will highlight the importance of also remembering intergenerational resilience on individual and community levels.