Power in Unity: AANHPI Organizations Unite for a Month-Long Celebration Across Portland
Portland, OR — April 2026 — This May, a powerful new collaboration is taking shape across Portland as three leading Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) organizations — API Forward, Filipino American Northwest Association, and FilAmFest Portland — come together for the very first time to celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month.
Anchored in the 2026 national theme, “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together,” the month-long celebration will spotlight the strength, diversity, and resilience of AANHPI communities through nearly a dozen cultural, social, and educational events designed to bring people together, share stories, and build lasting connections.
“This partnership is a clear signal to the AANHPI community that we are stronger when we work together,” said API Forward President and co-organizer, Christian Aniciete. “It is an honor to serve our community, and we can’t wait to see people show up, connect, learn about a new culture or two, and find joy."
Oregon is home to a rapidly growing and vibrant AANHPI population, representing more than 8% of the state’s residents. In the Portland metro area, AANHPI communities continue to shape the region’s cultural fabric, entrepreneurial spirit, and civic leadership. Yet despite this growth, many communities remain underrepresented — making spaces for visibility, storytelling, and unity more important than ever.
Throughout May, attendees can expect a dynamic lineup of experiences that reflect the richness and diversity of AANHPI cultures:
🎭 Advanced Screening + Mixer for Community Leaders: “Re-Rite” Musical by Portland Revels
📅 Saturday, April 25
📍 Portland Center Stage
🍿 “Song of the Fireflies” Film Screening
📅 Saturday, May 2 at 5:00 p.m.
📍 Portland State University
✊ Multnomah County AANHPI Heritage Month Proclamation
📅 Monday, May 4 at 12:00 p.m.
📍 SE Portland
🎭 “Re-Rite” Musical Performances by Portland Revels
📅 Saturdays, May 9 and May 163
📍 APANO and Filipino Bayanihan Center
🎤 AANHPI Speakers Panel
📅 Tuesday, May 12 at 4:30 p.m.
📍 Portland State University
👗 “Islands to Asia: A Runway of Heritage” Fashion Show
📅 Saturday, May 30 at 6:00 p.m.
📍 Shawn Gardner, Tigard
From film and theater to storytelling and fashion, each event offers a unique opportunity for community members of all backgrounds to engage, learn, and celebrate together.
This inaugural partnership reflects a growing movement toward collaboration and collective impact — bringing together organizations, leaders, and communities under one shared vision: unity as a source of power.
For more information, event details, and ways to get involved, go to www.filamfestpdx.com.
About API Forward:
API Forward is a volunteer run organization that provides education and training for local API students and young professionals to build skills and behaviors needed to break the “bamboo ceiling” and be successful leaders in our community. Together, with your help, we can make positive institutional changes, and ensure diverse voices and cultural experiences in decision-making processes.
About FilAmFest Portland:
Launched in 2024 as the first Filipino American festival in Oregon, Kasayahan (which means “celebration” in Filipino) has quickly become a cultural milestone for the state’s more than 40,000 Filipino Americans. Held during Filipino American History Month, the event honors the rich history, heritage, and contributions of Filipino Americans while fostering unity and cultural pride across the greater Portland community.
About FANWA:
The Filipino American Northwest Association (FANWA) works to: Educate the Filipino American community and broader public about the Philippines’ cultural heritage; foster friendships across communities regardless of race, color, or creed; promote traditional Filipino customs and traditions; and inspire Filipino children to embrace and preserve their cultural identity.
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