May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month. AAPI culture is diverse and has a lot to explore; here is a list of different ways you can celebrate AAPI month in Dallas. 

Travel

Asian art is unique and filled with tradition and culture. Travel to nearby exhibits and destinations to learn about AAPI art and culture. 

The Crow Museum of Asian Art: 2010 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201

The Crow Museum of Asian Art has exhibitions to learn about Asian Culture. The two current exhibitions include “Divine Spark: Karana Harada” and “Vishnu: Across time and space, both of which are a great way to learn about Hindu beliefs and culture. 

Japanese Botanical Garden: 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107

The Japanese Botanical Gardens in Fort-Worth was designed and developed by Fort-Worth’s Japanese sister city, Nagaoka, Japan. This garden is a relaxing way to appreciate the authentic Japanese natural environment with everything from koi ponds to cherry trees. 

The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum- The Samurai Collection:  2501 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201

The Samurai Collection at The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum allows you to view authentic pieces of samurai armor, used by samurai warriors in the 15th to 16th century. 

Food

Trying out authentic AAPI food is a great way to appreciate them during their community month of May. Here is an article from Thrillist.com with some nearby AAPI owned restaurants to try.

https://www.thrillist.com/lifestyle/dallas/aapi-owned-businesses-restaurants-dallas

AAPI made movies

Movies and TV shows can help with learning about other cultures around the world in a captivating way. Here are some of the most popular AAPI movies over the past few years.

Minari – Describes the immigration of a Korean family moving to Arkansas to start a family farming business. This oscar nominated movie has been said to resemble traditional Asian family ties.

Joy Luck Club – This 90s classic describes the immigration journey of a group of Chinese women to California during the 1980s. This movie is filled with different stories about Asian immigration to the states to educate yourself about the life of Asian immigrants during the 20th century.

English Vinglish – This movie describes the experience of an Indian woman trying to survive her first trip to the states without being able to speak english.

AAPI culture is special, yet often overlooked. Take time this May to honor these unique cultures in exciting ways.