AAPI Month, also known as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, is an annual celebration that takes place in May to recognize and honor the contributions, achievements, and diverse cultures of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. This month-long observance serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the rich heritage, history, and experiences of AAPI communities. It is a time to highlight the contributions of AAPI individuals in various fields, including art, science, literature, business, politics, and beyond.

As we honor AAPI Month, numerous TED Talks shine a light on the achievements and struggles of Asian Americans across history, inspiring us to break stereotypes and forge a more just future for all. By promoting cultural understanding, fostering an appreciation for the AAPI community's contributions to society, and encouraging dialogue about the challenges they face, AAPI Month celebrates and embraces the diverse voices and vibrant cultures that enrich America. In this blog, we will delve into some of the most inspiring TED Talks that commemorate AAPI Month, reminding us of the incredible contributions of Asian Americans throughout history.

Not Your Model Minority | Kelly Choi at TEDxUTAustin

The categorization of the Asian American experience under the model minority label diminishes and belittles the unique struggles and experiences that each Asian American has faced. In this insightful talk, Kelly addresses the lack of Asian American voices in activism and civic engagement, emphasizing the need for necessary changes to ensure that Asian American perspectives are represented in spaces where meaningful change takes place.

I am not your Asian Stereotype | Canwen Xu at TEDxBoise

In her upbringing within predominantly white communities in the US, Canwen Xu encountered challenges in reconciling her American and Chinese identities. She illustrates the different ways in which racial bias impacts Asian Americans and reveals her journey toward embracing the diverse aspects of her heritage.

Redefining Asian American Narratives Through Storytelling | Katerina Jeng and Krystie Mak at TEDxJHU

Motivated by the lack of Asian American representation in mainstream media, Katerina Jeng and Krystie Mak co-founded Slant'd, a media company dedicated to honoring Asian American identity and sharing the narratives that encapsulate our shared humanity. By fostering an intersectional community, Slant'd fearlessly challenges stereotypes, offering a platform where diverse stories unfold and redefine the Asian American experience, one story at a time.

Asian Stereotypes - Rethinking Perceptions | Laura Li at TEDxKids@ElCajon

Stereotypes about Asians pervade various aspects of society, ranging from media portrayals to educational environments. In this thought-provoking talk, Laura delves into the wide-ranging challenges arising from these experiences and offers practical solutions to dismantle such misconceptions and alter prevailing perceptions.

We hope you’ve enjoyed these TED talks and that they inspire you to celebrate the progress and achievements of Asian Americans around us. Happy AAPI Month!

Stay ConnecTED!

Nandini Mangalapalli