HE&R Celebrates AANHPI Heritage Month 2023

This communication was sent to our Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) team members to kick off Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month across the company.

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Throughout the month of May, we celebrate the rich and diverse contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities in our country. These communities have been instrumental in shaping the cultural, social, and economic fabric of America for generations.

It's important to recognize that the AANHPI community is not a monolith but rather a tapestry of more than 40 countries with unique ethnicities, languages, and traditions. With such a vast global presence, it's no surprise that the AANHPI population continues to rise. In fact, according to the 2020 Census, Asian Americans are the fastest-increasing racial or ethnic group nationwide, growing 81 percent, from 10.5 million to 18.9 million from 2000 to 2019. 

However, this growth has come with a  sharp rise in hate crimes against AANHPI individuals. Hate does not discriminate, so what can you do to help? The Department of Justice recommends connecting with law enforcement, identifying and connecting with community groups, and generating awareness. You can also educate yourself with books and other resources. Continue to have open conversations with your teammates, family members, and friends. Working together, we can reduce bias and continue to create a welcoming, inclusive community. 

The theme for this year's AANHPI Heritage Month is "Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity," a powerful reminder that opportunity is the bedrock of our nation's greatness. According to the Federal Asian-Pacific American Council (FAPAC), “Opportunity is a set of circumstances that make it possible to do something. It has been the foundation of our great nation; thus, America is known to be the land of opportunity.” We should strive to ensure that all members of our society have equal access to opportunities, regardless of their ethnic or cultural backgrounds.

Let us take this opportunity to learn from the diverse experiences and perspectives of the AANHPI community. By working together and promoting understanding and empathy, we can create a more welcoming and inclusive society for all.

Thank you for taking the time to celebrate this important month with us.