Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Calendar of Events
"During Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we honor the perseverance of those who courageously reached for their hopes and dreams in a new land, and we celebrate the important impact the AAPI community has made on our Nation's progress." — President Barack Obama.
While Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM) is celebrated nationally during the month of May, CMU celebrates March 15 to April 15, during the spring semester.
Friday, March 15, 2024
Asian Celebration
Immerse yourself in cultural richness and joy for an afternoon featuring traditional games, crafts, and a relaxed atmosphere for you to savor while enjoying time with others.
Time and location: 12:00 p.m. | Bovee UC 108
Hosted by: Shreya Abraham & Mahum Hakim
Friday, March 15, 2024 
Discovering Ramadan: A Beginners Guide
Join us for an enlightening and educational event as we delve into the sacred month of Ramadan, designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the significance, traditions, and practices associated with this month. The event aims to broaden perspectives and address misconceptions by promoting a more accurate understanding among diverse and intersectional communities in Asia.
Time and location: 6:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m. | Bovee UC, 108
Hosted by: Muslim Student Association
Saturday, March 16, 2024
Intercultural Unity Festival
Come out to the Intercultural Unity Festival (IUF) to build a community for underrepresented students on campus, increase cultural awareness for students not members of those communities, and overall to celebrate these cultural communities through their traditions. Students from these cultural communities will be provided an opportunity to celebrate unapologetically in the way those cultures celebrate themselves.
Time and location: 12:00 p.m. | Sarah & Daniel Opperman Auditorium(Park Library)
Hosted by: MASS
Monday, March 18, 2024
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Arifa Javed
Join us Monday, March 18, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Sarah and Daniel Opperman Auditorium (Park Library) for a presentation that will explore the intra-ethnic diversity of the Asian American community. This is part of an ongoing effort to understand the fine details of the important contributions that the different peoples within this community make to our American mosaic.
Time and location: 6:30 p.m. | Sarah & Daniel Opperman Auditorium (Park Library). Hosted by: MASS
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Samvaad Cinema: Nurturing Narratives for Social Change
Challenge stereotypes, embrace inclusive language, and gain fresh insights into South Asian experiences. Join our event, where we leverage Indian cinema to explore social issues within the South Asian community. After the exploration, engage in an interactive activity that promises a deeper understanding of these critical social issues. Do not miss this unique perspective on cultural nuances through the lens of Indian media!
Time and location: 6:00 p.m. | Bovee UC Auditorium
Hosted by: Syeda Mahreen & Bhuvi Pundir
Thursday, March 21, 2024
An Introduction to Hapkido: The Korean Art of Self-Defense
An Introduction to Hapkido – The Korean Art of Self-Defense" is an event designed to provide participants with a basic understanding of Hapkido, a traditional Korean martial art focused on self-defense techniques. During the event, attendees can expect an overview of Hapkido and a hands-on experience with brief demonstration.
Time and location: 5:30 p.m. | MAC Gym 1
Hosted by: Kevin Fisher
Friday, March 22, 2024
Religion Meets Culture
A panel of students come together to answer questions on a panel and share their personal experiences practicing their faith. Our goal is to show how religion can shape a person's worldview, provide them comfort, and be a source of strength. We will encourage and demonstrate asking respectful questions and engage in constructive conversation around religion and other differences that are often misunderstood. Attendees will get the chance to anonymously ask appropriate questions to create a more engaging space.
Time and location: 4:30 pm | Sarah & Daniel Opperman Auditorium (Park Library). Hosted by: Chamakta Central
Sunday, March 24, 2024
Steeped in Tradition: DIY Teabag Workshop
After an insightful presentation on the cultural history and healing properties of various tea leaves, students will get the unique opportunity to create their own tea bags to their liking.
Time and location: 8:00 p.m. | Kulhavi 141/142
Hosted by: Nikolay Aleksiev
Monday, March 25, 2024
Empowered Voices: Celebrating Women's History Month with Asian Leaders
Join us for an enlightening panel discussion during Women's History Month, as we shine a spotlight on the exceptional leaders of Central Michigan Campus with Asian descent origins. Explore the triumphs, challenges, and inspiring journeys of Asian American women in the professional world.
Time and location: 6:00 p.m. | Sarah & Daniel Opperman Auditorium (Park Library)
Hosted by: Shreya Abraham & Mahum Hakim
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
3rd Annual Henna Night: A Celebration of Art and Culture
Join us for the enchanting and culturally rich experience of the 3rd Annual Henna Night at Central Michigan! Immerse yourself in the ancient art of Mehndi, also known as henna, originating from the vibrant traditions of India, South Asia, and the Middle East.
Time and location: 7:00 p.m. | Bovee UC Rotunda
Hosted by: Shreya Abraham & Mahum Hakim
Wednesday, April 3, 2024
Nritya Pradarshan
Central Michigan's first-ever Indian Dance Competition! Witness the magic of India as dancers captivate the audience with high-energy dance performances to win prizes.
Time and location: 6:00 p.m. | Bovee UC Rotunda
Hosted by: Syeda Mahreen & Bhuvi Pundir
Thursday, April 4, 2024
International Student Panel: Understanding Asian Identity
Come hear from first-generation American and International Asian students as they discuss their experiences in America. Learn about their transition to the United States, their experience at CMU, and their perspective on being the "model minority"
Time and Location: 6:00 p.m. | Pearce Hall 127
Hosted by: Lindsey Nguyễn
Friday, April 5, 2024
MGC 101
Learn more about the history of MGC, and all the cultures that make up the Multicultural Greek Council. Learn about the Asian American Sororities and Fraternities available nationwide. Here you will also learn about the current organizations that make up the Multicultural Greek Council.
Time and Location: 2:30 p.m. | CSID, Bovee UC 108
Hosted by: MGC
Tuesday, April 9, 2024
Origami Night
Join us for an evening of origami instruction, learning, and community building! We'll be rotating rooms to learn two different shapes while discussing symbolism and anxiety. There will be options to take your learning and snacks to go as well!
Time and Location: 7:00 p.m.| Kulhavi Hall 141& 142
Hosted by: Carey Campbell Staff
Thursday, April 11, 2024
History of Anime
Learn about the history of anime and the impact it has on Japanese culture and its global integration.
Time and Location: 6:00 p.m | Anspach
Hosted by: Malcolm Vinson
Friday, April 12, 2024
Tattoo Culture in Asia
Discover the markings of Asia's rich tattoo culture, woven through centuries of tradition and heritage. Hosted by a student marked with traditional tattoos as they share their journey, offering a unique exposure to the history of patterned ink.
Time and Location: 5:00 p.m. | Sarah & Daniel Opperman Auditorium (Park Library)
Hosted by: SLB
Monday, April 15, 2024
Gather for the Culture
Join us at CSID for a culinary experience featuring the delicious eats from "Idli Dosa" and "Jib-Bob," where you can dig into the authentic flavors of Indian and Korean cuisines. Come out for good food and good times!
Time and Location: 6:00 p.m. | Bovee UC 108, CSID
Hosted by: MASS