Vice President Kamala Harris in a conversation during 2023 Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) Heritage Month / White House

In a collaborative effort, the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI) and the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center have unveiled the theme for the 2024 Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) Heritage Month: "Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future."

The significance of this theme lies in its call for intergenerational connection, action, and reflection within these communities, the White House said April 24.

This joint initiative builds upon decades of recognition, dating back to the late 1970s, where the contributions of AA and NHPI communities have been celebrated each May. Over the past decade, the collaboration between the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center and WHIAANHPI has produced themes such as "I Am Beyond" (2014) and "Visible Together" (2023), fostering dialogue and awareness around AA and NHPI identity.

The 2024 theme, "Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future," pays homage to the legacies, triumphs, and challenges that have defined AA and NHPI communities. It invites all Americans to delve into these narratives, emphasizing resilience, hope, and the importance of intergenerational connections.

This year's activities will include a significant gathering on May 13, 2024, at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, DC, where over 1,000 AA and NHPI leaders will convene. This event marks a historic milestone, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the White House Initiative and the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders during the Clinton Administration.

The theme, "Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future," encourages reflection on the rich heritage and diverse narratives within AA and NHPI communities. It acknowledges the contributions of Indigenous Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities, immigrants, refugees, and trailblazers who have shaped American society. By embracing these interconnected stories and honoring past visionaries, the initiative aims to spotlight the invaluable impact of AA and NHPI communities on American life and foster a future where diversity and resilience thrive.