As we begin the month of May, we recognize the rich contributions of individuals with Asian Pacific, Jewish-American and Mexican heritage. This month, we also honor our military war veterans, celebrate sexual orientation and gender diversities and important holidays in the Muslim and Jewish faith traditions.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 

The month of May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843 and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. The majority of the workers who laid the tracks on the project were Chinese immigrants. Learn more.

Jewish American Heritage Month 

In 2006 President George W. Bush proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month, marking the 350th anniversary of Jews in America, with their arrival in New Amsterdam. JAHM has been recognized in Madison Square Gardens in New York City and in Jewish museums across the country, with special lectures, programs and displays honoring Jewish contributions to American culture and heritage. Learn more.

May 5 

Cinco de Mayo 

Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican holiday commemorating the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War (1861-1867). This day celebrates Mexican culture and heritage, including parades and mariachi music performances. Learn more.

May 9 

​​​​​Laylat al-Qadr 

Laylat al-Qadr is the holiest night of the year for Muslims. It is traditionally celebrated on the 27th day of Ramadan, is known as the Night of Power and commemorates the night that the Quran was first revealed to the prophet Muhammad. 

May 12-13 

​​​​​​Eid al-Fitr  

Eid al-Fitr is the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal, marking the end of Ramadan. Many Muslims attend communal prayers, listen to a khutuba (sermon), and give Zakat al-Fitr (charity in the form of food). 

Learn more about Ramadan.

May 16-18  

Shavuot 

Shavuot is a Jewish holiday that has double significance. It marks the all-important wheat harvest in Israel and commemorates the anniversary of the day when God gave the Torah to the nation of Israel assembled at Mount Sinai. Learn more.

May 17 

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia 

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia is a global celebration of sexual orientation and gender diversities. It was created in 2004 to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex people and all other people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identifies or expressions and sex characteristics. Learn more.

May 31 

​​​​​​Memorial Day (U.S.) 

Memorial Day is a federal holiday established to honor military veterans who died in wars fought by American forces. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Every year on Memorial Day, a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. local time. Learn more.