Stony Brook Celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month

Stony Brook University is hosting a variety of events on campus in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritages Month, a time to reflect on the vital contributions of AAPI communities to our nation and to honor their rich, diverse cultures through a series of cultural, social, and academic events.

The AAPI Heritage Month Opening Celebration will take place on Wednesday, April 1, featuring a lecture by author Sangamithra Iyer, "On Confluences and Connections." It will be held from 12:30-2 pm in the Charles B. Wang Center, Lecture Hall 1.

Iyer is a civil engineer, animal rights advocate, and writer whose work bridges environmental resilience, compassion for all species, and the hidden histories of migration. Her memoir, Governing Bodies, intertwines family lineage, ethical inquiry, and personal reflection to examine harm, healing, and the possibilities of individual and systemic transformation. A reception will follow in the Wang Theater Lobby. RSVP online.

Other AAPI Heritages Month events include:

Nurse Unseen: Film Screening and Panel Discussion
Wednesday, April 8, 5:30-8 pm, Health Sciences Center, LH-1 and via Zoom
Nurse Unseen is a documentary that examines the overlooked history and sacrifices of Filipino nurses on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, amid a rise in anti-Asian sentiment. Includes a panel discussion with Emmy Award-winning Filipino filmmaker and director Michele Josue. Light refreshments will be served.

Spice and Stories: Night Market and Student Showcase
Friday, April 10, 6-9 pm, Union Ballroom
This community-wide event will feature a dynamic lineup of organizations, student performances, fun activities, dancing, Asian-inspired food tastings, live DJ, giveaways, prizes, and more! Sign up by filling out the Student Showcase Interest Form by Monday, April 1.

Asian and Asian American Studies Student Research Symposium
Wednesday, May 6, 12-2 pm, Student Activities Center, Ballroom B
Support student researchers exploring Asian and Asian American topics. Hosted by the Department of Asian and Asian American Studies, in partnership with the University Libraries and the AAPI Heritages Committee. Reception to follow in The Shore Club, Student Activities Center 169.

AAPI Heritage Month Closing Celebration
Wednesday, May 6, 2-3 pm, Student Activities Center, Ballroom B
Come celebrate another year of achievements and cultural engagement in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Join us for award presentations, senior recognitions, and mochi ice cream.

All events are free and open to all SBU faculty, staff, and students. For more information and a full list of events, please visit the AAPI Heritage website.