Centering AAPI culture at Lafayette

By Madeline Marriott ’24

Throughout April, Lafayette College will join communities around the country to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. 

The month, first introduced as a weeklong celebration in the 1970s and expanded to its current length by President Jimmy Carter in 1992, honors the history, legacy, and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. Though celebrated nationally in May to honor the first Japanese immigrants to arrive in the United States in May of 1843, Lafayette observes the month during April to ensure all students can participate before leaving campus for the summer. 

This year’s theme is “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience,” and the poster features stalks of bamboo—a plant that can thrive in even the harshest of conditions. 

“Due to Lafayette’s multinational enrollment of students from the Asian diaspora—both American and international—this month presents an opportunity to create spaces for meaningful discourse, celebrate cultural traditions, and invite individuals from outside the culture to explore and engage,” says Kimberly Weatherly, executive director of the Office of Intercultural Development (OID). “By doing so, we encourage cross-cultural dialogue that strengthens our sense of community and broadens perspectives on the global impact of AAPI communities.”

“Asia is incredibly diverse, with many unique traditions, languages, and histories,” adds Andrew Nuth ’25, Asian Cultural Association (ACA) co-president.  “By learning about different cultures, we can foster a more inclusive and respectful community that values the richness of all backgrounds.”

“Growing up in Dallas, Texas, I’ve witnessed how Asian representation has evolved. When I was younger, I only knew of a few Vietnamese and a few Chinese restaurants in my area. Now, there are many Asian communities across the city, with cultural centers, grocery stores, and restaurants reflecting the diversity of the AAPI experience. AAPI Month is important to me because it highlights the rich histories, traditions, and contributions of Asian Americans, helping us feel seen and valued in a society where our stories haven’t always been told.” -Andrew Nuth ’25 | Photo by Adam Atkinson

The ACA is organizing several events throughout the month in partnership with OID. On April 4, the group will host A Step into Asia, an evening of sampling food from across the continent, including culturally important foods cooked by members of the Lafayette community. 

This is the highlight of the month’s festivities for Sneha Khatuwala ’27, ACA secretary.

“We’ll have a variety of options, including Indian street food—which I’ll be making—along with Chinese, Vietnamese, and Sri Lankan dishes,” Khatuwala says. “It’s a fun and delicious way to learn more about Asian traditions while bringing people together. Whether it’s learning how to fold dumplings or trying a dish they’ve never had before, I hope attendees feel a sense of curiosity and belonging.” 

“Celebrating AAPI Month at Lafayette and beyond is important because it shines a light on the diverse cultures and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders—things that often don’t get enough recognition. At Lafayette, it’s a way for AAPI students to feel seen and valued while also sparking meaningful conversations about identity and the issues that impact our communities.” -Sneha Khatuwala ’27 | Photo by Adam Atkinson

On April 13, the group will embark on a day trip to FDR Market, a southeast Asian outdoor market in South Philadelphia with dozens of vendors selling food, clothing, and other goods. The trip also includes a visit to Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, a Fairmount Park botanical garden in full bloom during the month of April. 

Additional celebrations including a Bollywood Night and a celebration of Cambodian New Year will take place throughout the month. 

“AAPI Month is a good reminder that I am not alone and that there are communities at Lafayette who will celebrate my heritage with me,” says Socheata Huot ’25,  ACA co-president.

“AAPI Month is a reminder of my existence here; as an international student from Cambodia, I have never thought much about my identity and heritage. At Lafayette, I meet people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, and it makes me look back on who I am and where I come from.” -Socheata Huot ’25 | Photo by Adam Atkinson

“These programs offer opportunities to learn about historical legacies, engage with contemporary issues affecting AAPI communities, and celebrate cultural expression through food, art, music, and storytelling,” Weatherly explains. “Beyond awareness, our goal is to inspire action—whether through advocacy, allyship, or cross-cultural understanding.”