Waubonsee Community College will host events to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage, culture, and traditions. Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, observed from May 1 through May 31, recognizes the contributions and influences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans in the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. These events will be celebrated a month before graduation to be more accessible to the Waubonsee community. Events are free, open to all, and offered virtually and in person.
• "Poet and Creative Non-Fiction Writer Aimee Nezhukumatathil" is a virtual reading and discussion on April 4 at 6:30 p.m. In celebration of Women's History Month, National Poetry Month, and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, writer Amiee Nezhukumatathil will read and discuss her award-winning and New York Times bestseller, World of Wonders: In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments.
• "Experience India: The Dance Music and Fashion Show" will be on April 12 at 12:30 p.m. at the Sugar Grove Campus. Participants will explore the culture and beauty of India through an hour-long program. This show includes music, classical Indian dance along with Indian dance influenced by Bollywood, and a fashion show highlighting the styles of different regions across India. Attending this event in person is highly encouraged. Participants will be able to join the fashion show via Zoom. This event is sponsored by The Acharya Performing Arts Academy, Beautiful Ideas of Naperville, and Team Laya.
• "Let's Talk About It: The Impact of Culture on the Lived Experiences of the AAPI Community" will be a virtual panelist discussion on April 19 from noon to 1 p.m. about culture, family, education, and career. Panelists will discuss their lives and journey to become who they are today.
• "Busting Asian American Myths" will be a virtual discussion on April 25 from 1 to 2 p.m. Join Dr. Judy Ledgerwood and Dr. Kanjana Thepboriruk in an interactive exchange to learn more about the history of Asian immigrants to the U.S. and the recent sharp rise in anti-Asian violence. Have your phones ready to test your knowledge! Learn about the dramatic changes in Asian American communities in the last two years. Dr. Ledgerwood is the Director of Northern Illinois University's Center for Southeast Asian Studies, a resource center dedicated to increasing the world's knowledge and understanding of Southeast Asian countries through academic endeavors and public outreach. Dr. Kanjana Thepboriruk is an Assistant Professor of Thai language in the Department of World Languages and Cultures.
• Student-led "Anime and Manga Expo" will be displayed from April 18 to 22. Students, staff, and faculty are invited to submit their original creative work for a community display. Winners will receive gift cards.
For more information and to receive links to attend these virtual events, visit calendar.waubonsee.edu/AAPI.
