Roofing Is: Diversity – Celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month
With the rise in anti-Asian sentiment throughout the country lately it is important for us at NWiR to acknowledge and celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. 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 of itself is diverse with members representing more than 30 ethnic groups and speak more than 300 languages and dialects. How’s that for diversity?! Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have a rich heritage that dates back to 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.
In Nepal, there’s an urgent need for housing and women are taking the opportunity to emerge as leaders. When an earthquake caused devastation in April 2015 leaving hundreds of thousands homeless, a small group of Nepali women stepped up to learn masonry so they can help rebuild their community.
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) or Jess (jcress@bonedryroofing.net) and we’ll provide you with all the information to get your feature posted.