Celebrate API Heritage Month

Asian Pacific Islander American (API) 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 API community. Due to the nature of our academic schedule, the Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion (CMEI), and the University of Colorado Denver Center for Access and Campus Engagement recognizes API History Month during the month of April. The CMEI and our partners collaborate every year to create programming surrounding the experiences and issues of the API community.

Through our events, we celebrate the vast diversity within the API identity and bring to light issues that our community is experiencing in order to grow and heal.

Events

API Heritage Month Kick-Off  

Tuesday, April 1st | 11:30AM – 1:30PM | Tivoli Turnhalle

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 Access and Engagement proudly invites you to our API Kick-Off event, a vibrant celebration of the rich culture and community of Asia Pacific Islander (API) 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 API 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 API culture!

 

First They Killed My Father Author: Luong Ung Keynote

Wednesday, April 2nd | 11:00AM – 12:30PM | St. Cajetan’s

Join us for a powerful and thought-provoking keynote address featuring Luong Ung, the author of the book First They Killed My Father, as she shares insights on her book. This keynote will challenge, inspire, and empower us to embrace our stories, amplify our voices, and create meaningful change. Whether you’re looking for motivation, a new perspective, or a deeper connection to community, this is a keynote you won’t want to miss!

“From a childhood survivor of the Cambodian genocide under the regime of Pol Pot, this is a riveting narrative of war crimes and desperate actions, the unnerving strength of a small girl and her family, and their triumph of spirit.

One of seven children of a high-ranking government official, Loung Ung lived a privileged life in the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh until the age of five. Then, in April 1975, Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge army stormed into the city, forcing Ung’s family to flee and, eventually, to disperse. Loung was trained as a child soldier in a work camp for orphans, her siblings were sent to labor camps, and those who survived the horrors would not be reunited until the Khmer Rouge was destroyed.

Harrowing yet hopeful, Loung’s powerful story is an unforgettable account of a family shaken and shattered, yet miraculously sustained by courage and love in the face of unspeakable brutality.”

 

API Mix & Mingle Event

Tuesday, April 8th | 4:00PM – 6:00PM | Tivoli 320’s

Join us for an exciting Asian Pacific Islander (API) Mix & Mingle, a vibrant gathering designed to build connections, celebrate culture, and foster community! Whether you identify as Asian, Pacific Islander, or an ally, this is a space to meet fellow students, engage with API organizations, and explore ways to get involved on campus.

 

Tanghulu Demonstration

Wednesday, April 16th | 12:00 – 2:00PM | Tivoli 129

Experience the magic of Tanghulu, a beloved Asian street treat made by coating fresh fruit in a crisp, glossy sugar shell! Join us for a live demonstration where you’ll learn about the history of this traditional Chinese snack and watch the mesmerizing process of making it.

From skewering fruit to achieving the perfect sugar glaze, this hands-on demo will give you the chance to see (and taste!) Tanghulu in action. Don’t miss out on this fun and delicious experience!

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

REGISTER: https://msudenver.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eVsMTh4TXKMlshg

 

API Graduation Celebration

Tuesday, April 29th | 11:00AM – 1:00PM | Invite Only

Want to Learn More?

In honoring API Heritage Month, below are additional resources:

Colorado Asian Pacific United

Resources

Media List

Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion (CMEI)

Questions? Contact CMEI

Learn More About CMEI

Email:
[email protected]

Campus Location:

Tivoli Student Union 129

Phone:

303-615-0606

Mailing Address:

Campus Box 39, P.O. Box 173362, Denver, CO 80217-3362