May marks Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to honor and celebrate the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of AAPI communities across the United States. The East Bay is home to one of the largest AAPI communities in the country, accounting for 746,822 residents, or 26% of the region’s population. The AAPI community is deep-rooted and diverse in the East Bay and a vibrant hub for artists, activists, innovators, and many others.
This month, we want to celebrate and shout out a few rising stars with East Bay roots making waves as of late:
- Ruby Ibarra – NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest Winner, 2025
- Thuy – People Magazine’s Emerging Artists to Watch
- Alysa Liu – World Figure Skating Champion, 2025
These individuals exemplify the vibrancy and pride that define the AAPI experience and continue to inspire the next generation. We also want to take a moment to spotlight some East Bay organizations that are uplifting AAPI communities through advocacy, arts, and social justice. These organizations are champions of representation, ensuring that AAPI voices are heard and celebrated year-round:
- Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy (AAPIP) – AAPIP works to build power and equity for AAPI communities in philanthropy
- AAPI Youth Rising – a student-led organization that teaches Asian American histories nationwide, advocates for legislative change, and creates and unites against hate-fueled violence
- Gold House – Cultural ecosystem that unites, invests in, and champions Asian Pacific leaders around common causes and invests capital and resources in pursuit of socioeconomic equity
- Oakland Asian Cultural Center – arts and cultural programs that foster inter-generational and cross-cultural dialogue, understanding, and social justice
- Very Asian Foundation – Founded by award-winning NBC news anchor Gia Vang to bridge the gap between the community and journalism
To support AAPI Heritage Month, take a moment to learn about AAPI history, purchase a book from an AAPI author, attend an event, and stand against hate and discrimination.