About the Author

Evelyn Bian
Senior Business Systems Analyst
Port of Portland

As May unfolds its vibrant hues, we step into a time of reflection, celebration, and recognition. Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month beckons us to embrace the rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and identities that shape our collective narrative. For many, this month is not just a commemoration but a poignant reminder of the significance of representation and community.

It was last year during a Teams meeting when there was a moment, I noticed something noteworthy–all of the faces on the screen looked like me. As I think back on that incident two things come to mind. How cool that I am here in this meeting and every single one of us is Asian. There is a natural comfort knowing that there is a thread of commonality between us all despite differences in gender and age. But on the other hand, this was the first meeting I’ve had in my 20 years at the Port of Portland where everyone was a minority. And the meeting was only four people, and all IT folks, where statistically they have the highest representation compared to other fields occupied by Asians.

While we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I am grateful that I work for an organization that honors this month. Our AAPI Employee Resource Group plans programming to recognize the culture and people with the goal sharing traditions that make us proud to be Asian. And while I am grateful that the Port of Portland provides us the opportunity to come together in celebration, what I am most grateful for is that we continue to make a deliberate and intentional effort to seek employees of diverse backgrounds and ethnicities so that in the future I might see myself reflected in many more of the faces of those around me.

Organizations at the Intersection of Technology and Asian Americans and/or Pacific Islanders

Asian Americans in Tech (AAIT): AAIT is a community-driven organization that aims to empower and connect Asian Americans in the technology industry. They host events, workshops, and networking opportunities to support career growth and foster community among Asian professionals in tech.

Asian Pacific American Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Many tech companies have Asian Pacific American ERGs aimed at supporting employees of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. These groups often organize events, mentorship programs, and advocacy initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion within their organizations.

FAPAC: Federal Asian Pacific American Council, aims to promote equal opportunity and cultural diversity within the federal workforce, advocate for the professional development of AAPI employees, and serve as a voice for AAPI issues in government policies and practices.

Throughout the month, FAPAC typically organizes various events and initiatives to celebrate and recognize the contributions of AAPI individuals to the federal workforce and society at large.

Learn more and get involved!

Community Events: Attend local community events, festivals, and cultural celebrations organized specifically for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Look for events featuring traditional performances, music, dance, food, and art from diverse Asian and Pacific Islander cultures.

Community Service: Volunteer with organizations serving Asian American and Pacific Islander communities or supporting causes important to these communities. Engaging in community service projects can provide meaningful opportunities to give back and make a positive impact.

We here at Quest thank you for joining us in celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Evelyn