BROOKLYN, NY. Nineteen community organizations from Southern Brooklyn will host the Southern Brooklyn Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month Celebration on Saturday, May 16th, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at New Utrecht High School (1601 80th Street, Brooklyn, NY). This public and community event will honor the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of AAPI communities in Brooklyn and accross the city. Attendees can enjoy cultural performances, award presentations, trivia games, and giveaways, offering a meaningful experience for all ages.
The celebration will highlight leaders who've made impactful contributions in public service, media, and community engagement: Justice Lillian Wan: First Asian American woman appointed to the Appellate Division in New York State, Captain Mohammed Islam: Commanding Officer of the NYPD 62nd Precinct, a dedicated public safety leader, and Naratama : a TV director and community digital blogger who has elevated AAPI stories and diaspora voices from New York through global platforms. The Cultural Performance Program will showcase Thai, Balinese, Chinese, and English performances, including Thai Umbrella Dance, Balinese Pendet and Cendrawasih dances, and songs like 万疆 and Proud of You.
Organizers emphasized the event symbolizes unity and diversity, bringing residents together to celebrate heritage and acknowledge AAPI leaders shaping the city. Admission is free, but tickets are required and available at partner organizations like the Chinese-American Planning Council and Homecrest Community Services. “This celebration is about more than honoring heritage, it’s about bringing communities together, uplifting voices, and recognizing the contributions of AAPI leaders who continue to shape our city,” said organizers. “In Southern Brooklyn, diversity is our strength, and this event reflects the unity and pride of our neighborhoods.” added Wai Yee Chan, President & CEO Homecrest Community Center on the event first email press release.
With the theme “Celebrate Unity, Embrace Diversity,” the event aims to foster cross-cultural understanding, strengthening community connections, and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Participating groups include Asian American Bar Association of New York (AABANY), Apex for Youth, Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA)-Brooklyn Chapter, Bay Parkway Merchant Association, Brooklyn Chinese Volleyball Association, Chinese-American, Sports and Community Service Association (CASCSA), Chinese-American Planning Council (CPC), Chinese American Social Services Center (CASS), Community Legal Aid Center, Empowerment of American Asians (EAA), Homecrest Community Services, New York Team Up, NY Laundromat Businesses Association, Parent-Child Relationship Association (PCR), South Brooklyn Community Coalition (SBCC), Reflex Recreation, Sharing Hearts, WenCun Association and United Chinese Association of Brooklyn (UCAB).
Amanda Tamara - NYReaders.com
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