Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Awareness Month
Introduction
April 1 – April 30, 2025
Previously known as Asian American Awareness Month (AAAM), APIDAAM embraces a new name to foster inclusivity for all Asian-identifying and Pacific Islander-identifying communities. This year’s theme, "Celebrating the Colors of Culture and Courage," highlights the vibrancy, resilience, and diverse experiences within these communities at UIC. Join us throughout April for events and programs that honor and uplift APIDA voices!
Join us at these events!
History of Asian American Awareness Month at UIC
The first Asian American Awareness Week at UIC was organized by the Coalition for Asian American Studies in March 2000. They also held a protest and rally to lobby for an Asian American Studies program, a cultural center, and an academic support network.
In March 2001, the Coalition for Asian American Studies expanded the event into Asian American Awareness Month.
For Asian American Awareness Month in 2003, members of the Chancellor’s Committee on the Status of Asian Americans joined the planning committee. Events spanned the months of March and April.
For AAAM in 2003 and 2004, the Chancellor’s Committee was the host organization for the planning committee. In 2005, that role was passed to the Asian American Resource & Cultural Center. The Planning Committee is comprised of students representing different student organizations as well as engaged individuals. AARCC’s role in this planning continues to be student-centered and AARCC staff member supports by having meeting space and keeping students on deadline.
As of 2018, the planning of Asian American Awareness Month is coordinated by the UIC Center for Student Involvement with support from AARCC. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact UIC Center for Student Involvement studentinvolvement@uic.edu or call (312) 413-5070.
