Metropolitan State University of Denver is proud to celebrate the many cultures and identities represented on campus. While Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is officially in May, the University celebrates in April to allow for campus participation. To honor the celebratory month, University organizations are hosting a variety of gatherings. 

Events 

AAPI Heritage Month Kick-Off   

Begin the month with a vibrant celebration of the rich culture and tapestry of Asian American Pacific Islander heritage. Immerse yourself in a day filled with music, diverse external vendors and delectable cuisine as we honor the many traditions that define the AAPI experience.  

Visiting Artist Series: Gamelan Tunas Mekar 

Gamelan Tunas Mekar brings the spectacular song and dance of Bali to MSU Denver as part of the Visiting Artist Series. All Music Department events are free to MSU Denver students and employees. Reserve a ticket through the King Center Box Office. Free parking is available in the 7th Street Garage with a validation code given at the time of ticket reservation. 

Let the Good Times Roll: Kimbap Making 

Delve into the art of making kimbap, a beloved Korean dish that beautifully marries flavors, textures and colors. During this interactive demonstration, you’ll learn the secrets behind crafting perfect kimbap rolls from start to finish. 

Olivia Boah, owner and founder of Koco Street Food, will guide you through each step of the process and selecting the freshest ingredients to master the art of rolling and slicing with precision. Along the way, you’ll discover the cultural significance of kimbap and gain insight into the diverse range of fillings and variations that can be incorporated into this versatile dish. 

AAPI Heritage Month: Korea Goes Global: Exploring the Korean Wave, from Samsung to K-Pop 

Catch the Korean Wave! In the 21st century, the South Korean government, along with Korean corporations and artists, has focused on the strategic creation and global export of popular culture, a.k.a. the Korean Wave (Hallyu). Political scientist Tony Robinson, Ph.D., explains the concepts of “soft power” and “creative economy” within the Korean Wave project and how the city of Seoul is defining a global era. 

In Conversation: AAPI Representation in Music and the Arts 

Presented by the Department of Music’s Music, Race & Social Justice Visiting Artist Series and the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, join us for this happy hour, panel discussion and Q&A with: 

  • Annie Guo VanDan, Asian Avenue Magazine (moderator) 
  • Junelle Gabrielle Flores, actor, singer, dancer, musician (MSU Denver Class of 2023) 
  • Wilbur Lin, Denver Young Artists Orchestra and the Colorado Symphony 
  • Courtney Ozaki, Japanese Arts Network 
  • Ratha Sok, visual artist 

Do you have an AAPI History Month event you’d like included?