In 1977, Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month was first introduced as a 7-day observation period, taking place during the month of May.  May was a symbolic time—the first Japanese immigrant arrived in the United States on May 7, 1843, and the transcontinental railroad, which was mostly constructed by Chinese immigrants, was completed on May 10, 1869.  The initial 7-day period became a full month in 1992.

Aside from recognizing wide-ranging achievements from Asian/Pacific Americans, the month also shines a light on the many cultures encompassed under this designation.  Those recognized during this month include people from the entire continent of Asia, the Pacific islands of Melanesia (i.e. New Guinea), Micronesia (i.e. Guam), and Polynesia (including New Zealand and the Hawaiian Islands).

Though it’s important every year, this Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month is especially poignant as many prominent Asian American actors call for greater representation.  Actress Constance Wu, best known for her role on the ABC sitcom Fresh Off the Boat, has become a very vocal advocate for not only more representation but accurate representation.  She has openly denounced the whitewashing of Asian characters in mainstream film, and her passion landed her on TIME’s 2017 list of the 100 most influential people in America.

U.S. Representative Tammy Duckworth became the first disabled female military veteran to earn election to both the House and Senate, and she was the country’s second Asian-American senator.  She is still currently serving and will become the first woman to give birth while in office.

Scientist and academic David Ho was the first scientist to prove that HIV reproduced itself inside the human body upon contraction.  His research and discovery led to significant advancements in HIV/AIDS treatment.

There are so many achievements to celebrate and recognize during this month, and here’s hoping that the month continues to take on even more importance with each passing year.