Montgomery County is gearing up to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures within the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities with its fourth annual AAPI Heritage Month celebration. The event, which is free and welcomes all, is set to enliven Germantown's Seneca Valley High School from 11 AM to 4 PM next Sunday, May 4, according to a press release from Montgomery County.
The celebration aligns with National AAPI Heritage Month and acknowledges the contributions and influence of AAPI individuals in Montgomery County. As per U.S. Census Bureau data, AAPI residents make up more than a sixteenth of the county's population, with Asians representing 16% and Native Hawaiians or Other Pacific Islanders accounting for 0.1%. Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, per Montgomery County, emphasized the crucial role played by these communities: "This celebration is important because it recognizes the many ways that our Asian American and Pacific Islander communities have shaped Montgomery County—through culture, activism, public service and everyday contributions that often go unrecognized." But Elrich added a sobering reminder, "As we celebrate heritage, we also have to be honest about the inequities that persist, including disparities in health care access, language services and economic opportunity."
This year's lineup at Seneca Valley High School promises various activities aimed at all ages. The festivities will include cultural performances, heritage crafts, and games for the kids. On the more pragmatic side, a health fair will open its services to attendees. AAPI food vendors will be present as well, providing a taste of the diverse culinary traditions. Community engagement will be further encouraged with opportunities to interact with elected officials.
