At WorkTango, we are fully committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B). In February 2023, we celebrated Black History Month, and in March 2023, we celebrated Women’s History Month. In this post, we’ll discuss how we recognized and honored the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) throughout AAPI Heritage Month.
AAPI Heritage Month provides all organizations with a valuable opportunity to appreciate the diverse experiences and perspectives of this vibrant community, and we hope you can take away some ideas on how to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month within your own organization in the years to come.
1. AAPI Educational Minutes
Throughout AAPI Heritage Month, WorkTango hosted educational minutes twice a week as part of company-wide meetings. During these dedicated 5 minute blocks, various employees walked through key moments of AAPI history, culture, and shone a spotlight on influential individuals from the AAPI community. These brief but impactful sessions provided our employees with a deeper understanding of the AAPI experience. By dedicating time to learning about and celebrating AAPI heritage, WorkTango created an environment that embraces diversity and promotes a sense of unity and cultural awareness.
2. Asian American and Pacific Islander Voices Panel
WorkTango also held an AAPI Employee Voices Panel, where AAPI employees from across the company came together to discuss their personal journeys, cultural backgrounds, and the impact of their heritage on their lives and careers. This panel served as a powerful opportunity to elevate AAPI voices, foster understanding, and promote dialogue within our organization. By creating a space for open and authentic conversations, WorkTango celebrated the diversity and contributions of our AAPI employees, while also fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for our collective experiences.
3. Asian American and Pacific Islander Trivia
WorkTango organized an interactive Trivia event during AAPI Heritage Month to allow employees to test their knowledge of AAPI history, culture, and achievements. Our goal with our AAPI Trivia game was to create awareness, spark conversations, and deepen the understanding of the AAPI community’s rich contributions. It was an opportunity to celebrate diversity, promote cultural appreciation, and strengthen our bonds as a team. Congrats again to the trivia winners, Riju and Alicia!
Celebrating diverse cultures and heritage months, such as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, is essential for fostering a culture of DEI&B in the workplace. By actively engaging in celebrations and initiatives that highlight various cultures, organizations can create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Such celebrations serve as reminders of the richness that diversity brings to our organizations and society as a whole. They encourage open dialogue, bridge gaps in understanding, and promote empathy and cultural awareness.
Next year, we hope you consider implementing some of the ideas above to recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month within your own organization!
Emily Hendricks
Emily Hendricks is the Corporate Communications Manager with WorkTango, where she supports the company's public relations and communications initiatives.
