Austin PBS Celebrates Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Austin, TX)—May 10, 2022— Austin PBS is commemorating the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) - past and present - by broadcasting a variety of dedicated programs during the month of May.

“As Central Texas continues to grow, so has Austin PBS’ commitment to reflect our changing community, ensuring diverse voices and perspectives are included in the media,” said Luis Patiño, CEO of Austin PBS. “Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage month allows us to spotlight the history, culture, art and creators from these communities, honoring their struggles and celebrating their successes. While stories from the AAPI community will be amplified this month, Austin PBS’ commitment to highlight diverse content and makers takes precedence year round.”

Programs celebrating the AAPI community will showcase the lasting influence of inspiring athletes, artists, activists, teachers and more. While each story is unique, they all draw awareness to the contributions made and hardships endured by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to shape their community and the nation.

Locally focused programming, including Pioneers from the East, showcases the Asian American community’s valuable contributions to Austin and is available to stream anytime. A compilation of stories from Decibel, showing at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 12, challenges perceptions about DACA and highlights Asian Americans’ contributions to art and the economy.

Other programming shares opportunities to learn about Hawaiian traditions and how an Olympian overcame racism in Waterman – Duke: Ambassador of Aloha, narrated by Jason Momoa, airing at 8 p.m. on May 10. Viewers can discover the art and life of the renowned Chinese-American painter behind Bambi in Tyrus, airing at 9 p.m. on May 17. In Chinatown Rising, airing May 26 on Austin PBS WORLD, learn about the community’s uphill battle for equal education and rights in San Francisco.

For the full list of programs celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and how to watch, visit https://austinpbs.org/highlight/aapi-heritage-month.

For additional information about Austin PBS, visit: www.austinpbs.org

ABOUT AUSTIN PBS Since 1962, Austin PBS has been a part of Central Texas, delivering programs that educate, entertain, and inspire. As the only locally-owned and operated nonprofit public television station in Central Texas, Austin PBS uses its unique position to serve as a bridge to the community and provide essential services to 3 million potential viewers in more than 20 counties across the region.