Asian Heritage Month

Asian Heritage Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Asian communities.

At NAIT, we honor the achievements of Asian leaders, innovators, and trailblazers who have shaped society for generations. We encourage meaningful conversations, education, and engagement to deepen our understanding of Asian heritage.

Join us as we celebrate the impact of Asian communities and continue building a more inclusive future together. 

Recognizing and Celebrating Asian Heritage Month

May is Asian Heritage Month, a time for NAIT and all Canadians to honour the history, contributions, and achievements of Asian and Pacific Islander Canadians who have shaped our communities and industries, paving the way for future generations. 

This month is an opportunity to reflect on their stories of perseverance, celebrate cultural heritage, and recognize the often-overlooked contributions from Asian and Pacific Islander Canadians that have enriched Canada’s diversity. 

Who We Celebrate

Asian Heritage Month recognizes individuals from, or with roots in: 

  • East Asia: China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia, Taiwan 

  • Southeast Asia: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, East Timor, Vietnam 

  • South Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka 

  • Western Asia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, State of Palestine, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen 

  • Central Asia: Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan 

  • Pacific Islands: Fiji, Guam, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia (Federated States of), Nauru, New Caledonia, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna 

Our People, Our Stories

NAIT is proud to have a diverse community of students, staff, and faculty of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage. As we celebrate this month, we encourage everyone to explore the cultures, traditions, and histories that shape our shared experiences. 

Beyond May, let’s continue to honour the strength, creativity, and diverse perspectives that make our NAIT community stronger. 

Asian Student and staff at Student Service Fair

Learn more about Asian history

Noteworthy Canadians of Asian heritage promo image

Noteworthy Canadians of Asian origin — 

These short biographies highlight some of the many valuable contributions made by Canadians of Asian heritage.

Asian History Month pattern

Significant events in the history of Asian communities in Canada

Learn about how people of Asian origin have and continue to help shape Canada as we know it today.

VMACCH logo

The Virtual Museum of Asian Canadian Culture and Heritage 

Provides a database of content from the Virtual Museum.

Asian History Month web link graphic

Resources for Combatting Anti-Asian Racism 

Information on combatting anti-Asian racism and hate and overcoming harmful stereotypes about Asia and people of Asian descent.

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