Albuquerque Public Schools
Showcasing APS's Vibrant Diversity
In her weekly message, Superintendent Durán Blakey celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and thanks staff for their commitment to inclusion.
It’s the first day of May, and I want to give a shoutout to all of our Asian American and Pacific Islander students and staff as we celebrate their month.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month was established by Congress in 1992 to commemorate two key events: the arrival of our country’s first Japanese immigrants on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, which Chinese workers were instrumental in building.
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have played a pivotal role in our country, and we are fortunate to have them as part of the diverse tapestry that makes up our amazing nation. I am grateful that they are part of our vibrant Albuquerque and APS community!
I’ve always been a firm believer that diversity makes us stronger. Exposing ourselves to other people’s traditions and perspectives enriches our own lives, makes us more empathetic, and, I truly believe, makes us better human beings.
That’s why I was thrilled last month to see so many different cultures represented during Manzano High School’s multicultural assembly.
I saw Lion Dancers take command of Manzano’s gym, jumping and shaking in their traditional Chinese costumes, a dance said to bring luck, prosperity and joy while warding off evil spirits. Each of the colorful costumes–red, yellow, orange and blue– was brought to life by two incredibly talented dancers who performed to the lively tune of drums, cymbals and gongs.
Another group of Chinese women performed traditional Asian dances, while hula dancers represented Pacific Islander culture. Manzano’s Black Student Union did step dancing and a poem reading. Middle Eastern students put on a fashion show, modeling their traditional dress.
There were also folklorico dancers and Native American dancers in their traditional dress, along with a Native American cornmeal blessing.
Manzano Principal Rachel Vigil says the multicultural assembly has been a longstanding tradition at her school, which has a diverse student population. It’s held to foster international awareness, respect and admiration for all who walk Manzano’s campus, she explained.
It’s a beautiful tradition, and I’m grateful I had the opportunity to see it firsthand. At APS, we strive to create learning environments where all students see themselves and to create a sense of belonging for all of our students.
Celebrating the different cultures we’re fortunate to have among us like Manzano does with its multicultural assembly does exactly that. And it creates cultural awareness and global understanding among all students.
This commitment to inclusion is being demonstrated throughout our school district. I’m grateful to all of our staff for creating a supportive environment and celebrating our diversity.
Enjoy your weekend.