05/01/2024
May marks the celebration of , a time to honor a rich tapestry of cultures and histories. It pays homage to pivotal moments like the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in May 1843 and the monumental completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in May 1869, a feat accomplished with the dedication of countless Chinese immigrants. The AANHPI community, comprising over 20 million individuals in the United States, embodies a vibrant mosaic of languages and traditions, uniting diverse populations from numerous countries and islands.
Founded in 1994, IRCO's Pacific Islander and Asian Family Center (PIAFC), initially known as AFC, blazed a trail as the inaugural culturally and linguistically tailored community hub catering to the diverse needs of Pacific Islanders and Asians. Since its inception, PIAFC has remained steadfast in its commitment to serving our Micronesian, Melanesian, Polynesian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian communities. Under the guidance of an advisory board and a multilingual, multicultural staff, PIAFC strives to offer and advocate for culturally responsive services to PIAFC families, enriching community life with the wealth of cultural values and distinct experiences they bring. As IRCO's reach extends beyond the Portland metro area, we are actively engaged in expanding our efforts to better support all our communities.
We invite you to join IRCO in honoring Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month!
