As we continue to cultivate diversity, equity, and inclusion, it’s important for us at NWiR to acknowledge and celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month!
This May, as we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, the DEI Committee would like to feature our members who are part of the AAPI community. Please reach out to Rae (rae@chinookroofing.com), Jess (jesscressga@gmail.com or Mandy McIntyre (mmcintyre@levelup-consultants.com ) and we’ll provide you with all the information to get your feature posted!
To expand our knowledge on AAPI month, here is a brief history lesson on the impact Asian American and Pacific Islanders have had on our country:
The first Japanese immigrants came to the United States in May 1843 and in May 1869 the transcontinental railroad was completed thanks to the hard work of thousands of Chinese laborers making May a symbolic month to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month. According to the US Census Bureau, Asians and Pacific Islanders are the fastest-growing racial group, with numbers nearing 10 million people which accounts for 4% of the population.
The AAPI population in itself is diverse with members representing more than 30 ethnic groups and speaking more than 300 languages and dialects. How’s that for diversity?! Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have a rich heritage that dates back thousands of years old and have not only helped shape the history of our country but also had their own lives dramatically influenced by moments in our country’s history.
In the US, while AAPI women account for a very small percentage in the construction industry, internationally that percentage is increasing. In countries like Singapore, China, Japan and Indonesia more and more women are forging careers in construction.
This May, as we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, the DEI Committee would like to feature our members who are part of the AAPI community. Please reach out to Rae (rae@chinookroofing.com), Jess (jesscressga@gmail.com or Mandy (mmcintyre@levelup-consultants.com ) and we’ll provide you with all the information to get your feature posted!