Cal State San Bernardino is celebrating Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Heritage Month in April with a variety of events that honor the rich culture and accomplishments of the Asian, Pacific Islander and South Asian communities.
This year’s celebration was launched with the annual Pasifika Culture Night, which took place on April 7 at the Santos Manuel Student Union North. Pasifika Culture Night was a dynamic and deeply meaningful event that celebrated the rich heritage, identities and traditions of Pasifika communities.
Nationally, Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month is celebrated during the month of May, but because the university has a short month due to finals and spring commencement ceremonies, CSUSB starts its celebration in April.
The events will feature cultural performances, art exhibits and culinary experiences, where participants can taste a variety of traditional dishes from Asian, Pacific Islander and South Asian cuisines. All are invited to participate.
Upcoming events, which also are being held in conjunction with Arab American Heritage Month, include:
April 15 – Thai, Lao, Cambodian New Year (APIDA Heritage Month)
Celebrate TLC New Year! Learn about the rich culture and various ways the New Year is celebrated.
Location: APIDA Center, SMSU North third floor
Time: Noon-1:30 p.m.
Contact: Taraneh Tabatabai (Taraneh.Tabatabai@csusb.edu)
April 21 – Home Runs & Heritage
Unpack the history and significance of baseball, “America’s pastime,” in Latinx and APIDA communities.
Location: SMSU North Conference Centers
Time: 1:30-3 p.m.
Contact: Taraneh Tabatabai (Taraneh.Tabatabai@csusb.edu)
April 23 – Shake the Date (with Arab American Heritage Month)
Location: Palm Desert Campus RMSC Lounge-RG 115
Time: 2-3:30 p.m.
April 27 – Book Giveaway: “As Long as the Lemon Tree Grows” (with Arab American Heritage Month)
Students are invited to stop by and pick up a free book — available while supplies last!
Location(s): CSUSB John M. Pfau Library and Palm Desert Campus Library
Contact: Evelyn Camargo (evelyn.camargo@csusb.edu)
April 27-29 – Arab Tent (with Arab American Heritage Month)
Participate in Arab Tent, a vibrant celebration of Arab American Heritage Month. Enjoy a cultural tent experience featuring educational materials, traditional tea and coffee, and a selection of Arabic sweets. Everyone is welcome to learn!
Location: Coyote Walk
Contact: Lorena Marquez (Lorena.Marquez@csusb.edu)
April 29 – Arab Heritage Month Celebration (with Arab American Heritage Month)
Join the APIDA Center as we bring together the Arab/SWANA community to celebrate Arab Heritage Month with a night filled with food, community and music.
Location: SMSU North Conference Centers
Time: 5-8 p.m.
Contact: Taraneh Tabatabai (Taraneh.Tabatabai@csusb.edu)
