Join the Asian Heritage Fest and other events in North Texas to celebrate the rich cultures and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Explore cultural performances, food vendors, and community connections. Show your support and embrace diversity in your community.
Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in North Texas
( Credit to: Nbcdfw )
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and North Texans are coming together to celebrate their rich cultures and the contributions they have made to the community. This article highlights the stories of proud Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the area who are shaping what it means to be part of the fastest-growing population in Texas.
( Credit to: Nbcdfw )
One of the biggest celebrations in the region is the Asian Heritage Fest, which will take place from May 17 to May 19 at Asia Times Square in Grand Prairie. This event is free to attend and will feature food vendors, cultural performances, daily lion dances, and even an inaugural 5K race. Matthew Loh, the CEO of Asia Times Square, has worked hard over the past decade to transform the shopping center into a cultural hub for many Asian American families in the DFW area. His mission is to preserve tradition and promote culture, and he sees Asia Times Square as a destination that connects cultures and communities.
Loh's family also owns the Hong Kong Market Place grocery store, which has been serving the Dallas community since the 1980s. Loh, who graduated from the University of Texas, Arlington with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, decided to join the family business to help create change and provide the Asian American community with the foods they grew up loving.
Combatting Ignorance through Education and Cultural Events
( Credit to: Nbcdfw )
The Asian Heritage Fest was created in response to the rise in anti-Asian hate during the pandemic. Matthew Loh believes that the root of these issues is ignorance and that the best way to combat it is through education and cultural events. He wants to replace ignorance with acceptance and believes that hosting events like the Asian Heritage Fest is a step in the right direction.
A Month of Celebration and Community Connections
In addition to the Asian Heritage Fest, there are many other events happening throughout the month to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the DFW area. Some of these include live jazz performances, a city hall celebration, free admission day at the Fort Worth Botanical Garden, author talks, a dragon boat festival, and even a Texas Rangers Asian Heritage Night.
This month is an opportunity for everyone to learn about and appreciate the rich cultures and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. By coming together and celebrating diversity, we can create a more inclusive and accepting community for all.