Asian Pacific American Heritage Month at Rider includes art exhibit

Although nationally celebrated in May, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month will be celebrated at Rider University in April, offering several events that provide a glimpse into Asian cultures throughout the world. This year, the month is themed “New Beginnings,” inspiring hope for a brighter future.

The events were organized by Asian Students at Rider (ASAR), Rider International Student Association (RISA), Moore Library and the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

“This month, as we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, the entire Rider community, including American students, will be able to participate in Asian traditions and cultures,” says Stephanie Gomez-Cortes, president of RISA. “This month will showcase Asia’s contributions that have made it to our country as well. Every culture brings their history and traditions that make this country so diverse and versatile.”

The celebration will kick off with a ribbon cutting for the art exhibit, "Treasures of China," on Tuesday, April 3, in Moore Library. This event will exhibit some of artist Jun Zhan’s watercolors from two series that portray Chinese cultural heritage, The Forbidden City series and the Portraits of the Xingjiang Uygur Seniors series.

"It is an honor for Moore Library to be able to host such a talented artist as Jun Zhan and his amazing works of art,” says Dr. Richard Riccardi, senior associate provost and dean of libraries. “I invite and encourage the campus community to experience these works in person; the vibrant colors and exquisite details truly bring the Chinese culture to life, transporting the viewer to Asia with his skilled brush and watercolors."

Other events planned throughout the month include Asian Street Food Night, Korean Theme Night, ASAR Karaoke night and The Lion Dance, an integral part of Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures. "Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is an annual tradition on our campus, which is one of many opportunities that Rider has to offer its students in not only maximizing their college experiences but also by exposing them to a world that is bigger than their own," says Dr. Pamela Pruitt, director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

All Asian Pacific American Heritage Month events are free and open to Rider students, faculty and staff to enjoy. For more information, visit www.rider.edu/events/asian-heritage-month.