There are so many marvelous things to celebrate in May! There’s Cinco De Mayo, Mother’s Day, and even National Love A Tree Day. We’re not kidding, it’s on May 16th! But with all of these amazing celebrations, there’s one in particular that may quite possibly be the most important of them all, Asian American and Pacific Islander Month!
May is when we celebrate the rich heritage, achievements and contributions of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community that have helped to shape and influence U.S. culture and industry in unimaginable ways. EnviroPerks recognizes and pays homage to three incredible Earth activists! They have helped pave the way for impactful environmental change in the United States and abroad. We will also help you find cool ways that you can recognize and honor the life and legacy of AAPI.
What’Chu Gonna Do!
Many talk a good environmental game, but Andrea Chu is ‘bout this green life! Chu studied environmental science at Ohio State University and found that as a Taiwanese American there was little to no Asian representation in most mainstream environmental organizations. That needed to change. As the Midwest Regional Organizer for Food & Water Action, Chu learned about the disparate impact climate change had on communities of color. Later, upon moving to Chicago, she created workshops in her apartment “to provide an Asian American voice in the environmental justice movement.” These workshops would later evolve into Chicago Asian Americans for Environmental Justice (CAAEJ).
The Spiritual Rainbow Warrior
“I don’t need them to be touched by my story and I don’t need their pity. I need them to take action.” The words of 22 year old Marinel Sumook Ubaldo scream it’s time for change. Like her peer, Greta Thunberg, Marinel is serious about taking action against climate change and has become a global activist. Born in the Philippines, Marinel helped to organize her country’s first youth climate strike. As a leader with Plan International, Marinel would often be seen in communities and schools in the Philippines. She educates residents and students about what causes climate change and how it affects the community. Known as one of the deadliest countries for environmentalists, Marinel will not be moved, “…I’m ready to die for it, ready to fight no matter what. This is the purpose of my life.”
Aloha Earth!
There is no more beautiful place in the U.S. than Hawaii. A tropical paradise, Hawaii is a haven filled with all manner of flora, fauna and beautiful creatures. If you’ve ever seen pics or been to Hawaii, you understand why the people take such pride in her care. Hawaii has always been known to have some of the greatest environmental stewards on the Planet, even before it was cool. Native, Herb Lee, Jr., is one of those amazing stewards.
As President and CEO of the Pacific American Foundation, Mr. Lee has dedicated his life to the education and preservation of his community. He has led a multitude of youth leadership programs, culture-based education projects, and career development programs which have trained over 5,000 teachers. He also started environmental education programs which use traditional conservation and land management techniques. In March of 2014, the White House honored Herb Lee, Jr. for his leadership in improving the lives of others in his community and creating new ways to combat issues that plague our planet.
Cool Ways To Celebrate!
These are just a few of the many AAPI who have given their lives to our planet and her well-being. For fellow Americans, this month provides an incredible opportunity to show solidarity through the observance of AAPI month. And, as Loyalty+ members, you can take advantage of all kinds of savings while doing it.
For example, you can learn more about AAPI culture through literary works, and as a Loyalty+ member, you get over 10% off at audiobooks.com. You even get a two (2) book free trial!
Loyalty+ members can also save on visits to museums where you can learn even more about the culture and contributions of the AAPI community. Simply log-in to your account, search for “museum tickets” and save up to 25%! And, Loyalty+ members can take advantage of no hidden fees or taxes! As you walk through the museums, the whole family will learn, laugh, and gain new awareness for Asian heritage and culture.
May Matters This Year and Every Year
There’s so much to celebrate in May! We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about some of the amazing people who inspire us and the world around them. We all have the potential to make a difference and we are proud to show our appreciation of the amazing people who make a difference for our planet and our future.
Jammica Boone is a writer and content creator for Enviroperks.