Asian American Heritage Month Celebrated at NIH

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Sandra Oh (front, c) leads the Korean Mae-Hwa Dancing Group, a high school alumnae dance troupe that reunites regularly to learn dance, share Korean culture and stay healthy.

Photo:  Katie Chan

The NIH community enjoyed an outdoor program of Asian food and culture on May 24. Opening the event, Dr. Michael Gottesman, NIH deputy director for intramural research, explained that Congress designated every May to be Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. He highlighted contributions of Asian American scientists at NIH and in academia, industry, nonprofit organizations and other government agencies to the betterment of the global community.

The event, which included music, dance, tai chi, art demonstrations and information tables, was organized by the NIH Asian and Pacific Islander American Organization (APAO), which also coordinated with Eurest Food Services to provide different Asian cuisines.

Attendees learned about services of the PHS Asian Pacific American officers committee, the NIH Employee Assistance Program, NIMHD, NIAMS, and the NIH Federal Credit Union. Area community groups provided information displays.

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Attendees learn basic tai chi movements, which are closely tied to observations of nature and animals.

Photo:  Katie Chan

APAO, active at NIH since 1996, sponsors lectures and discussions and works closely with the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion to present training opportunities to the NIH community.