Honoring Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month locally

May marks the celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time to honor the history, culture and contributions of AANHPI communities to the fabric of American life. This year's theme, "A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience," reflects on the enduring strength and leadership demonstrated by AANHPI individuals throughout history. From the earliest waves of immigration to the present day, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders have made profound contributions to American society.

May holds particular significance in Asian American history as it commemorates the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad on May 10, 1869. Much of the track for this monumental project was laid by Chinese immigrants, marking their vital contributions to the growth and development of the United States.

Transportation leaders in the AANHPI community

Transportation is more than a means of moving people — it is a cornerstone of opportunity, access and inclusion. For many AANHPI communities, particularly those in urban areas like Denver, access to reliable and equitable public transportation is instrumental for economic mobility pursuing educational opportunities and facilitating social equity.

Numerous AANHPI individuals have made lasting contributions to transportation, advocating for policies that promote equity, improving infrastructure and ensuring that public transit serves communities equitably. Below are some leaders who have helped shape the future of transportation: 

• Kimiko Side: Side is a distinguished historian, educator and advocate for AANHPI communities in Colorado. Through her research and public education efforts, Side has played a key role in preserving the history and contributions of Asian Americans in the state. Her work has highlighted the role of Chinese and Japanese immigrants who worked on railroads, shaping Colorado's transportation infrastructure. By advocating for the recognition of AANHPI communities, Side has emphasized the intersection of race, policy and equity, illustrating how transportation access has been central to the struggles for justice and representation.
• Chin Lin Sou: Chin, a prominent figure in the Chinese American community, worked on the Denver Pacific Railroad after assisting with the First Transcontinental Railroad. Serving as a foreman for a Chinese crew, Chin later established businesses that catered to Chinese railroad workers in Denver. His efforts were essential not only in the railroad's construction but also in supporting the Chinese American community in Colorado.
• Bill Naito: Naito was a visionary businessman and community leader who played a key role in shaping Portland’s urban and transit development. His advocacy was instrumental in the creation of the Metropolitan Area Express (MAX) light rail system, the Portland Transit Mall and the Portland Streetcar, the preservation of the historic Portland Union Station. These innovations greatly improved accessibility and connectivity, particularly for underserved communities. Naito emphasized that transportation infrastructure should serve diverse populations and foster inclusive urban growth. His leadership continues to influence Portland’s urban planning and cultural inclusivity today.
• Michele Wong Krause: Krause is a distinguished attorney and dedicated advocate for transportation policy and equity. As Board Chair of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), she has been instrumental in advancing sustainable and inclusive transit solutions nationwide. Her leadership extends to serving on the Board of Directors for the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system, where she has championed policies prioritizing affordable and accessible public transit, particularly benefiting low-income communities and communities of color. Krause's advocacy has led to significant improvements, including enhancements in bus services, expansion of light rail systems and increased representation of immigrant communities in transportation planning. Notably, she is a proud representative of Hispanic, Asian and Native Hawaiian descent and is the first APTA Chair of both Asian and Latine heritage, highlighting her commitment to diversity and inclusion within the transportation sector.
• Elaine Chao: Chao made history as the first Asian American woman to serve in a U.S. Cabinet position as Secretary of Transportation, appointed by President Donald Trump. Serving from 2017 to 2021, Chao led the U.S. Department of Transportation and worked on infrastructure modernization, including initiatives to improve the safety and efficiency of roads, bridges and transit systems across the nation. Her leadership was instrumental in securing funding for critical transportation projects, especially those aimed at improving service for underserved communities.
• T. Bella Dinh-Zarr: Dr. Dinh-Zarr is a leader in transportation safety and policy, advocating for safer roads and better infrastructure across the country. With her work at the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and other organizations, Dinh-Zarr has championed policies that focus on making roads safer for pedestrians, cyclists and public transit riders. Her efforts to reduce traffic fatalities and promote sustainable transportation practices have had a significant impact on policy changes and public attitudes toward road safety.

Events to celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month

Here are ways to celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month, including supporting local businesses and participating in events that highlight the achievements of AANHPI communities

• Mile High Asian Food Week (April 27-May 3): Celebrate the vibrant culinary scene of Colorado's AANHPI communities with Mile High Asian Food Week. This weeklong event brings together local AANHPI-owned restaurants and food businesses, offering a diverse array of cuisines from across Asia, the Pacific Islands and Hawaii. Foodies can explore special discounts, secret menu items and unique offerings that showcase the best of AANHPI culinary traditions. It’s a fantastic way to support local businesses while enjoying delicious and authentic dishes from cultures that have enriched Colorado’s food landscape.
• AAPI Culture Fest (5-10 p.m. May 16 at Civic Center Park, Denver): Join the celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander identity at the AAPI Culture Fest, a free, annual community event that celebrates the richness and diversity of AANHPI heritage through art, live performances, cultural displays and community activities. The festival fosters unity and cross-cultural understanding, offering attendees the chance to experience the beauty of AANHPI traditions, music, dance, fashion and cuisine. With a focus on family-friendly fun, this festival creates space for connection and celebrates the AANHPI communities that have made such vital contributions to Colorado’s culture.
• Asian American Hero of Colorado Awards Ceremony (10 a.m.-noon May 18at Social Fabric Hub, Englewood): The Asian American Hero of Colorado Awards celebrate individuals in Colorado’s AANHPI communities who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, service and dedication to advancing social justice, equity and inclusion. This awards ceremony, hosted by the Colorado Asian Culture & Education Network (CACEN), recognizes the achievements and contributions of AANHPI leaders to the state.
• ”Denver is My Home: Denver’s Historic Chinatown, Japantown, and Little Saigon” (on view through May 25 at Denver International Airport): The exhibit, titled "Denver is My Home," offers an in-depth exploration of the lives of the early AANHPI immigrants who settled in these neighborhoods, and the ways in which they shaped the cultural and economic development of Denver. Through photographs, stories and artifacts, visitors can learn about the challenges and triumphs of these communities, their cultural practices and their ongoing impact on the city.
• “Where is Denver's Chinatown? Stories Remembered, Reclaimed, Reimagined” (through Aug. 9, 2025): This exhibit at History Colorado offers an important look into the history of Denver’s Chinatown, exploring the stories of the community that once thrived in the area. This exhibit examines the cultural, social and political dynamics that shaped Chinatown, showcasing the community’s resilience and how it continues to impact Denver today. It is an opportunity to reflect on the challenges of gentrification and displacement while honoring the legacy of Chinatown and the ongoing struggle for cultural preservation.
• "Lunar Phases: Korean Moon Jars” (through June 8, 2025): Experience the beauty and cultural significance of Korea’s traditional moon jars through the Lunar Phases exhibition at the Denver Art Museum. These iconic, white-glazed jars, which were crafted during the Joseon dynasty (1392–1897), are celebrated for their simplicity, elegance and spiritual resonance. The exhibition explores how contemporary artists within Korea and abroad are reinterpreting the moon jar, blending tradition with modern expressions. It’s an opportunity to learn about Korean art and culture and reflect on their historical significance.