KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- This month, Team Kirtland is celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Month.
Celebrated every May, AAPI Month honors the heritage and culture of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans.
The month of May was chosen to pay homage to the first Japanese to immigrate to the U.S. on May 7, 1843, and in reference to the transcontinental railroad being completed May 10, 1869. Most of the railroad workers on the tracks where Chinese immigrants.
“We are hoping to promote awareness as well as recognize all of our members that belong to the Asian American Pacific Islander group for their effort, contribution and continuous support to our [Department of Defense] mission,” said Manuel Jimenez, Medical Logistics Flight chief and one of the event organizers. “Also, we would like to share our heritage and culture to better understand each other and to enhance unit cohesion across our organizations.”
The events below are planned for AAPI month, and attendance is encouraged.
May 8 – Youth Center Outreach at the Youth Center from 2 – 3:30 p.m.
May 9 – Ultimate Noodle Chef Competition at the Base Chapel from 11:30 – 1 p.m. $2 minimum donation or non-perishable food.
May 22 – Cultural Show and Luncheon at Kirtland Spouse Club from 11:30 – 1 p.m. Tickets cost $10.
This year’s theme is “Unite our Mission By Engaging Each Other.”