Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Heritage Month at SAC
Telling Our Stories, Reclaiming Our APIDA Identity
Each May, APIDA Heritage Month honors the achievements, contributions, and rich cultures of Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Desi Americans in the U.S. Due to the academic calendar, SAC is celebrating in late April and early May. This year, SAC celebrates the power of storytelling—a vital tool for reclaiming and embracing identity. Storytelling helps preserve culture, challenge stereotypes, and amplify voices. We invite everyone to join us for a vibrant series of events centered on storytelling, identity, and community. Through conversations, workshops, and celebrations, we’ll uplift truth, foster connection, and highlight the diversity of the APIDA experience.
Share Your Story | An APSP Collective Storyboard
As part of APIDA Heritage Month, we invite you at anytime to anonymously contribute to our collective by sharing a tradition that grounds you, a photo that holds meaning, or a short reflection on your identity. Your story matters—and it belongs here.
Visit the APSP Collective Storyboard: Click Here or Scan Below:
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APIDA Heritage Month Event Schedule
Communi-Tea Talks: Bystander Intervention
Mon. April 21 | 12PM-1PM | Location: APSP Center, VL 107 | Boba tea served
Take a stand against anti-Asian hate by joining a powerful conversation on the challenges Asian Americans face—from microaggressions to hate-based violence. In this space, we center lived experiences and personal stories that too often go unheard. Through storytelling and dialogue, we’ll explore the history of anti-Asian racism, share our truths, and learn actionable strategies to combat discrimination and become stronger allies. Receive a certificate recognizing your allyship and commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive community. *Collaboration with Orange County Asian Pacific Islander Community Alliance
Keynote: Embracing Identity & Advocacy with Jose Antonio Vargas
Wed. April 30 | 11AM-1PM | Location: W-101 | Book Signing (VL-109) & Light Reception (VL-107) to Follow
Join Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, filmmaker, immigration advocate, and founder of Define American, Jose Antonio Vargas, as he shares his journey as an undocumented Filipino American, dispelling immigration myths and embracing identity with pride. A book signing and reception with light refreshments to follow. *Collaboration with Undocuscholars Program
Through Our Lens: Capturing Support in the APIDA Community
Tue. May 6 | 12PM-2PM | Location: APSP Center, VL 107 | Lunch provided
Step into a powerful visual storytelling experience with a gallery-style showcase of student-captured photos that highlight how support, resilience, and culture thrive within the APIDA community. Engage with personal reflections, explore mental health resources, and celebrate the strength of the APIDA community through shared experiences. *Collaboration with Little Tokyo Service Center, Changing Tides
Unpacking APIDA Identity & Allyship Workshop (Professional Development)
Fri. May 9 | 9AM-11AM | Location: HS-106 | Exclusive event for Faculty, Staff, & Administration | Breakfast provided
Join Dr. Marissiko Wheaton-Greer for a professional development workshop on the diverse identities within the APIDA diaspora and the challenges faced in the U.S. This session will share student perspectives on allyship and offer strategies for staff, faculty, and administrators to better support SAC students. As Founder of Greer Consulting and Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for National CORE, Dr. Wheaton-Greer brings valuable expertise in fostering inclusivity. Don’t miss this chance to deepen your understanding and strengthen your allyship!
Taste of Heritage: APIDA Cuisine
Mon. May 12 | 11AM-1PM | Location: Central Plaza | With Associated Student Government
Enjoy a variety of dishes from across South Asia, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands—each with its own story to tell. Food is a powerful form of storytelling, carrying the histories, identities, and cultural pride of the APIDA community. Come eat, enjoy, and discover the rich flavors and traditions that connect us across generations and geographies.
For more information or to join the 2026 APIDA Heritage Month committee, please contact:
APSP Advisory Board Co-Chairs:
Alexandria Pan, Student Services Coordinator: Pan_Alexandria@sac.edu
David Rehm, Commiunication Studies Faculty: Rehm_David@sac.edu
