Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is nationally observed to recognize the contributions made to America by people of Asian and Pacific heritage. It is celebrated in May to acknowledge the first Japanese immigrants to the United States who arrived May 7, 1843. On May 7, 1990, Asian Pacific American leaders around the country gathered at the White house to witness the signing of a proclamation by President George Bush, declaring May to be Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

On May 7, 2001, President George W. Bush issued a proclamation regarding Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 2001.