Throughout the month of May, we're celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Month by inviting our members to learn more about the rich cultural heritage, histories, and traditions of Asian/Pacific American communities in Minnesota and across the country. Girl Scouts of all levels can earn the Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Fun Patch by completing fun activities that honor the culture and contributions of Asian/Pacific Americans. See below for more resources to help your Girl Scout dive into Asian/Pacific American stories, discoveries, art, history, and more.
What is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month?
May is nationally recognized as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This month-long celebration recognizes the contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI), amplifying their voices and concerns and giving others the opportunity to share in their cultural pride. Join us in celebrating this diverse community made up of over 50 different nationalities that has a long history in our region.
Here is a kid-friendly video that explains more about Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
How do I earn the fun patch?
Girl Scouts can complete a specific number of themed patch activities required for their program grade level to earn the Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Fun Patch. The sew-on patch can then be purchased at GirlScoutShop.org
Resources to Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Here are some great ways to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with your Girl Scout or troop.
Attend a local event to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Twin Cities
May 13: Our Favorite Stories with Theater Mu [Saint Paul]
Join Theater Mu artists Suzie Juul, Dexieng Yang, and Ashley Horiuchi at the library and explore the world of theater. Enjoy performances by our artists as they share tales from across the AAPI diaspora and precious memories from their childhoods. Then dive into your own creativity, learn cultural arts, and tell new stories with activities such as costume design, movement, props or puppets.
May 24: Aloha Storytime with Ms. Rose Oyamot [Saint Paul]
Sing along with Ms. Rose and her ukulele to explore interactive songs featuring Hawaiian language and culture. Learn new songs and have fun with favorite tunes with an Island twist.
May 7: Music in the Chapel - Vietnamese Traditional Music of Minnesota [Minneapolis]
Lakewood is celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by welcoming Thi Vu of Vietnamese Traditional Music of Minnesota. The Music in the Chapel series showcases an eclectic range of performers and local musicians for musical performances that showcase the acoustical charms of this historic and unique architectural landmark, right in the heart of the city.
May 20: K’Nyaw Storytime and Crafts [St. Paul]
Join local author Remona Htoo for an engaging story time in both K’Nyaw and English. A craft will follow the story time. For young children and their families.
May 9: Okinawan Cooking – East Side Food Co-Op [Online]
Join Kimiko Molasky as she demonstrates how to cook a typical Okinawan chicken soup with daikon radish, kobu seaweed, and bonito fish broth. Okinawa is a collection of islands located in southern Japan. This combination of ingredients is characteristic of the region and is very comforting with its perfect balance of nutrition and umami.
May 20: Tal - Traditional Korean Masks [Plymouth]
Learn about tal (traditional Korean masks) which are widely used in theatrical performances to show satire and criticism of the social class structure. Masks are made from hanji (traditional Korean paper), wood and clay, and are characterized by exaggerated features and vivid colors, representing various social classes and emotions. Create your own mask using traditional materials and methods, and leave with a personalized souvenir. Materials provided.
Rochester
May 6: Asian Brush Painting - A Brief Introduction [Rochester]
When executed with masterful technique, a single ink brushstroke is capable of conveying vitality, delicacy, and contemplation—the essence of Chinese philosophy and spirit. It is this “life force” or chi (pronounced chee) that the artist aspires to capture and express through brush painting. Learn the basics of this unique art form. Seating is limited and priority is given to those who have pre-registered.
Visit a local Asian/Pacific museum, art gallery, or garden
Bonsai Collection at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory [Saint Paul]
The Bonsai collection at Como honors a Japanese art. Bonsai, pronounced bone-sigh, means “tree in a pot.” It is an art form with origins that go back more than 2,000 years when Japanese emigrants adapted a similar art form developed in China.
Art Exhibition by Pactia Abad – Walker Art Center [Minneapolis]
Pactia Abad is a Philippine artist that experiments in different mediums, including textiles, works on paper, costumes, and ceramics. The exhibition includes more than 100 works—most of which have never been on public view in the United States.
Hmong Cultural Center Museum and Library [Saint Paul]
Offering exhibits and a comprehensive library to teach about the Hmong community in Minnesota and Hmong culture and history.
Xia Gallery & Café [Saint Paul]
A café and art space, XIA supports the creative work and entrepreneurship of Asian American artists & makers by providing resources and spaces to showcase and grow.
Changsha China Friendship Garden [East Saint Paul]
Part of Phalen Regional Park, the Changsha China Friendship Garden was opened to the public in July 2019 and features the Xiang Jiang Pavilion, a three-story replica of the Aiwan Pavilion in China, as well as an arch, an ornate bridge, and the Hmong Cultural Plaza.
Visit a local Asian/Pacific market
Hmongtown Marketplace [Saint Paul]
Visit this market and experience South East Asian Culture in Saint Paul. Here you will find fresh produce, groceries and later in the season the Farmer’s Market.
Asia Mall [Eden Prairie]
A great place to shop for fresh Asian groceries, pick up live seafood and dine at the top local Asian restaurants, all in one place.
Read a book that celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander History and Heritage
This list put together by St. Paul Library features 15 fabulous picture books that feature AAPI stories and voices to help you start your own celebration.
Watch a video or listen to a podcast about Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
We Bare Bears: Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month - Drawn To - Cartoon Network
Watch and listen to the stories of kids that identify with different Asian/Pacific American heritage and how within their different cultures, elders are honored and respected.
Dorktales Storytime
Hidden Heroes of History AAPI Heritage Month playlist features experiences, achievements and perspectives of Asian American’s who forged new paths and made significant contributions in the arts and sciences.
