Leadership | 05.14.25
Celebrating National Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Honoring Rich Legacies and Inspiring Futures
By Claudia Elmore, CPCS, CPMSM
Every May, we proudly celebrate National Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month — a time to honor the generations of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history and continue to shape its future. It is a time to reflect on the immense contributions, vibrant cultures, and resilient spirit of the AANHPI community, while also recognizing the ongoing work needed to ensure equity, inclusion, and representation for all.
According to The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC), this year’s theme, “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience”, reminds us that the spirit of innovation, resilience, and leadership in the AANHPI community continues to move our society forward. Let us honor this spirit — not just in May, but throughout the year — by lifting up AANHPI voices, celebrating achievements, and working together for greater understanding and opportunity.
The origins of this month-long celebration date back to 1978, when Congress passed a resolution establishing Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. In 1990, it was expanded to a full month, with May chosen to commemorate two significant events: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, built largely by Chinese immigrant laborers.
Today, the AANHPI community reflects a tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. It includes individuals whose ancestries are tied to countries across East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific Islands. With over 50 distinct ethnic groups speaking more than 100 languages, the AANHPI community embodies a rich diversity that has deeply influenced American culture — through cuisine, music, science, art, public service, and beyond.
The term AANHPI became more widely used starting around 2021, driven by a desire for more accurate and equitable representation. The change underscores the distinct cultural identities and needs of Native Hawaiians, separating them from the broader “Pacific Islander” category for clarity and respect. In 2021, President Biden issued a proclamation for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, using the full term AANHPI. This marked a formal and symbolic shift in federal recognition and catalyzed the broader adoption of the term.
Throughout American history, AANHPI individuals have played crucial roles in strengthening and shaping the nation. From groundbreaking leaders like Congresswoman Patsy Mink, the first woman of color elected to Congress; Ellison Onizuka, the first Asian American astronaut; civil rights activist Yuri Kochiyama; and contemporary leaders such as former Vice President Kamala Harris and poet laureate Joy Harjo exemplify the power and resilience of AANHPI voices.
However, while we celebrate progress, we also acknowledge the challenges that persist, including racial discrimination, underrepresentation, and inequities heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing AANHPI Heritage Month is not only about celebrating achievements but also about reaffirming our commitment to inclusion, visibility, and solidarity.
At NAMSS, we are especially proud to acknowledge and celebrate the AANHPI members of our organization. Your leadership, expertise, and diverse perspectives help strengthen our profession and advance our mission to ensure patient safety and professional excellence. Representation matters — and your presence and contributions enrich the entire medical services profession.
There are many ways to honor AANHPI Heritage Month — whether through attending cultural events, supporting AANHPI-owned businesses, learning about AANHPI history, or engaging in conversations about inclusion and equity. By educating ourselves and others, we foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultural fabric that strengthens our communities.
As part of our celebration this month, we invite and encourage our AANHPI NAMSS members to update their member profiles to ensure accurate representation within our community. Highlighting your heritage allows us to better recognize and celebrate the incredible diversity that makes NAMSS stronger.
Updating your profile helps us better represent and celebrate your contributions. Together, we can build a more inclusive, visible, and vibrant future for all MSPs.
Happy National Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Claudia Elmore, CPCS, CPMSM
Claudia Elmore, CPCS, CPMSM, is a credentialing coordinator at Alameda Health System and serves as the vice chair of the NAMSS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee. She is passionate about fostering inclusive practices in the medical services profession and supporting the development of the next generation of MSPs. Claudia considers herself a citizen of the world, building relationships and networking with professionals from many countries to promote cultural understanding and connection.