Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month traces its roots back to 1978 when Congress passed a joint resolution to recognize the contributions and achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Originating as a week-long celebration, it was later expanded in 1992 to encompass the entire month of May. AAPI Month showcases the diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities across the nation.

The McKinney Library is hosting an East West Fest on May 18 to celebrate AAPI Month featuring several performances, activities, and vendors, such as the Rising Phoenix Lion Dance Association and Angel Touch Kitchen Food Truck. 

Learn more about Asian American culture and history here. 

Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to combat mental health stigma, share resources, emphasize the importance of prioritizing emotional well-being, and celebrate recovery for mental illnesses. The theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month is Where to Start: “for anyone struggling with the pressure of today’s world, feeling alone, or wondering if they can feel better, this is Where to Start.”

Students can practice activities such as journaling, practicing gratitude, connecting with others and volunteering to help manage their mental health.

Learn more about Mental Health Awareness month here.

Military Appreciation Month

Military Appreciation Month was established by Congress on May 30, 1999. Other military-related days, such as Loyalty Day (May 1, 2024) and Memorial Day (May 27, 2024) also fall within May. Military Appreciation Month honors the brave individuals who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces. 

Several businesses offer discounts during the month for veterans, such as SeaWorld and Walgreens.

National Speech-Language-Hearing Month

National Speech-Language-Hearing Month brings attention to the challenges faced by those with speech, language, and hearing disorders, and the importance of early intervention, accessibility, and support services. These disorders encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from stuttering and apraxia of speech to hearing loss and auditory processing disorder

Learn more about National Speech-Language-Hearing Month here.

Jewish American Heritage Month

On April 20, 2006 President George W. Bush established Jewish American Heritage Month. Jewish American Heritage Month celebrates Jewish culture, history, and contributions to American society. 

Learn more about Jewish American Heritage Month here.

National Foster Care Month

National Foster Care Month raises awareness about the challenges faced by children and youth in foster care, emphasizing the need for stable homes and supportive environments to ensure their well-being and success. Around 400,000 children and youth are in the foster care system. According to national research, “children in foster care are at high-risk of dropping out of school and are unlikely to attend or graduate from college.” 

Learn more about National Foster Care Month here.

National Stroke Awareness Month

National Stroke Awareness Month aims to educate the public about the signs, symptoms, and prevention of strokes, empowering individuals to take proactive steps towards better cardiovascular health. Strokes can happen to anyone. 

(FDA)

Learn more about stroke awareness here.

National Pet Month

National Pet Month was created in 2006 by the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters. It is celebrated in May in the US, and in April in the UK. National Pet Month celebrates the companionship and joy that pets bring to our lives while also advocating for responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and the importance of adoption. According to the APCSA, an estimated 6.3 million companion animals, majorly dogs and cats, enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year.

Learn more about National Pet Month here.