Belmont Celebrates AAPI Heritage

April programming highlights Asian American and Pacific Islanders, culture and tradition 

As the nation observes Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in May, it’s a fitting time to look back on Belmont’s own celebration that took place last month. Held in April to ensure students get to participate before the end of the academic year, Belmont campus enjoyed a third year of programming to celebrate and honor AAPI histories, cultures and contributions while creating space for reflection and dialogue. 

“Our hope is to highlight the diversity, history, achievements and challenges of AAPI communities and foster cross-cultural, multi-ethnic and multi-racial dialogue and education for students, faculty, staff and the broader Nashville community,” said Dr. Gideon Wongi Park, assistant professor of religion and AAPI committee chair. 

AAPI Heritage Month Highlights 

Throughout the month, Belmont welcomed influential speakers whose work explores the intersections of faith, identity and justice.  

Rev. Janna Louie

Rev. Louie — an American Baptist minister and founder of the Coalition of Asian American and Pacific Islander Churches — delivered a chapel address titled “Our Weeping Hope” to share her experiences navigating racial identity, faith and advocacy. 

 Dr. Grace Ji-Sun Kim

Dr. Kim, professor of theology and prolific author, also visited campus for chapel to share themes from her latest book When God Became White: Dismantling Whiteness for a More Just Christianity. Her message emphasized the Korean concept of ou-ri, meaning “ourness,” as a framework for cultivating inclusive communities. 

The premiere event of this year’s celebration was Cultural Fest, a vibrant and immersive experience featuring Asian cuisine, cultural exhibitions and student performances. Co-hosted with student organizations including Asian American InterVarsity, Chinese Cultural Association, Japan Culture Club, Korean Music Business Society and RVX Dance Group, the event brought together Belmont’s community to share in AAPI traditions.  

Expanding Representation and Connection 

Belmont’s AAPI Committee was established in 2021 and held its first campus-wide celebration in 2022. Since then, the group has expanded its presence and programming. 

In its efforts to broaden impact, the AAPI Committee welcomed new members from the College of Music and Performing Arts, College of Sciences and Mathematics, O’More College of Architecture and Design, College of Law and the Frist College of Medicine. 

The Faculty Senate also officially recognized the committee as an Extra-Structure Group this year.  

“One of the goals of the AAPI Committee is to create a culture for faculty, staff and students to connect and thrive,” Park commented. “To that end, we had the pleasure of welcoming new Asian faculty and staff to the Belmont community with Korean pastries from Paris Baguette — a small but significant gesture. This was made possible through the generous support of CLASS Dean, Dr. Bryce Sullivan, and Teaching Center Director, Dr. Mike Pinter." 

The Committee’s efforts and the April heritage celebration underscore Belmont’s ongoing commitment to honoring cultural diversity and cultivating a community where every voice is heard and valued. By creating space for shared traditions, meaningful dialogue and cross-cultural connection, these initiatives help foster a deeper sense of belonging and purpose across campus.