GVSU celebrates Asian Pacific heritage with wide-ranging events

A young generation’s involvement in the 2012 presidential election and Chinese calligraphy art are among topics of events scheduled for Grand Valley State University’s annual Asian Pacific American Islander Heritage Celebration.

Sponsored by Grand Valley’s Office of Multicultural Affairs, the celebration will take place from January 25-March 31. The events are free and open to the public.

Asian Pacific Islanders in Michigan
January 25, 4-5 p.m., Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room, Allendale Campus
From 2000-2050, Asian Pacific Islanders are projected to be the fastest growing ethnic group in the U.S. Lawyer Rona M. Lum will discuss the awareness and understanding of the demographic, economic, education, social and housing characteristics of APIs who live in Michigan.

Asian New Year Festival
January 26, 6-9 p.m., Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room, Allendale Campus
An Asian New Year Festival will highlight the richness and diversity of Asia by featuring samples of traditional cuisine and performances.

“First Person Plural,” award winning PBS documentary
January 30, noon-1p.m., Kirkhof Center, Room 1240, Allendale Campus 
“In the Matter of Cha Jung Hee,” PBS documentary
January 31, noon-1 p.m., Kirkhof Center, Room 1240, Allendale Campus
Both documentaries will explore the topic of transnational adoption and the impact of globalization on families.

Aesthetic and Moral Ideals in Chinese Calligraphy
February 8, 1-2:30 p.m., Kirkhof Center, Pere Marquette Room, Allendale Campus
Grand Valley philosophy professor Peimin Ni will discuss calligraphy as a highly respected form of art in China and how it became a way political powers were demonstrated.

The Rising Voices of Asian Pacific Islanders in the 2012 Election
February 9, 5-6 p.m., Kirkhof Center, Room 2270, Allendale Campus
Stephanie Chang, president of Asian Pacific Islander American Vote for Michigan, will discuss why a younger generation of Asian Pacific Islanders should get involved in the 2012 presidential election. Chang will address issues of immigration, jobs, economy, health care and education and what they have to do with the election.

Human Rights, Civil Rights and Islam
February 15, 4-6 p.m., Kirkhof Center, room 2250, Allendale Campus
Lena Masri, staff attorney for the Council on American-Islamic Relations, is a nationally noted presenter on issues related to human rights, civil rights and Islam.

R.I.C.E. Conference: Realizing and Addressing Issues in Our Culture and Education
March 31, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Loosemore Auditorium, DeVos Center, Pew Grand Rapids Campus
This conference will educate and raise awareness of Asian issues that impact the community. Complimentary breakfast and lunch will be served.

Supporting sponsors of the celebration include Grand Valley’s Area Studies, Asian Student Union, College of Community and Public Service, College of Education, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, East Asian Studies, Inclusion and Equity Division, LGBT Resource Center, Muslim Student Association, Women’s Center and WGVU Public Media.

For more information, visit www.gvsu.edu/oma.