Why should your company celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month?

Today we’re discussing why your company should join in on celebrating May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Here’s what I’ll cover:
• What does your organization have to gain by Recognizing this month?
• What is the origin of this heritage month
• Who cares?
• How to honor this month properly.
• Tips on what to do and what not to do.
• Advice on improving plans that might not hit the mark.

Do your company honor other heritage months like Black History Month or Pride. This can showcase your commitment to diversity and the customers who appreciate it diversity.

Now, why focus on May? It’s smart for your business. It makes good financial sense.

In a world of 8.1 billion people, who is the global majority?
Asians constitute the majority—59% of the world’s population. With Pacific Islanders, this number edges over 60%. This doesn’t include any of the Asians outside of Asia. This global majority extends far beyond Asia, influencing cultures and markets worldwide.

So, who has the largest population in the world? If China was your guess, you’d need to update that. India has caught up, each country with about 1.4 billion people. These numbers aren’t just statistics; they’re key indicators for businesses everywhere.

5/10 of the most populous countries are Asian.

In the U.S., more than half the population will be people of color by 2045, says the Brookings Institute. This isn’t just a shift in population—it’s about changes in our culture. Just like K-pop has crossed oceans, Asian and Pacific Islander influences are spreading. Is your company ready to adapt to these changes? If not, you are going to miss out on business.

Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders represent America’s fastest-growing demographic. If you’re aiming for a slice of this expanding pie, your strategic focus during May can serve as a springboard.

The highest AANHPI populations are in California, New York, and Washington. But even if you don’t operate in these states, their growth is important. States like South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, and Indiana have seen the highest increases in AANHPI population growth. Since 2000, there’s been a 104% increase across the nation.

What does this mean for you? Out of America’s 333 million people, AANHPI individuals account for 24.7 million. That 7% is a swiftly expanding market, ideal for companies aiming for growth.

Knowing this market is key. You can’t just sell to AANHPIs—you need their input to market smartly. But is your company’s culture inclusive and culturally competent enough to retain these new hires? For example, if employees are simplifying Asian names of Thuy and Mi Jung’s names to Tom and MJ for ease, that’s not creating a space where everyone feels respected.

Now more than ever, with the rise of anti-Asian sentiment since COVID-19, it’s important to understand the experiences of AANHPI people. How often are they told Go back home, your dirty.

Recognizing May is about more than just acknowledgment—it’s an invitation to learn about their culture. It’s your launchpad into their world.

If your organization is planning to celebrate May, pause to consider your objectives and strategies. I’ve heard of companies simply ordering Chinese takeout or hosting a Lion Dance as their way of recognition. But take a moment to reflect: How does such an approach help your broader employee base genuinely understand Asian American cultures? Does it elevate your AANHPI employees and clients, or does it risk reducing a rich heritage to mere stereotypes?

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