One song

Celebrating Asian American Awareness Month important

But now it is.

Many issues face Asian Americans at the University, although awareness about these issues, the history of Asian Americans and Asian-American accomplishments is low. Therefore, the work of the Asian American Student Coalition to present the second annual awareness month is crucial to the community.

The theme of the month is "Many voices, one song" to support the notion that all Asian Americans will join together this month and also that other students and State College residents will understand this community. It will be an opportunity for Asian Americans, as well as all community members, to engage in dialogue.

Although this is only the second month devoted to raising awareness about Asian Americans, there have been annual awareness weekends and weeks previously. The time span had to increase due to the wide array of issues Asian Americans face. In its second year of the month-long celebration, the coalition has managed to fill almost every day with at least one event.

Events featured this month include debates, discussions and speakers. One of the main events of the month, "Asian Awakenings," will be held at 8 p.m. April 17 and has moved from the HUB to Rec Hall to accommodate for the large number of attendees. This event, which has been held for seven years, gains more attendees every year and expanded to the larger venue.

In addition, high attendance is expected at the Mr./Ms. Asian Penn State Fashion Show at 8 p.m. April 18 in the HUB Assembly Room and the semiformal banquet where Jeff Yang, editor and publisher of A. Magazine, will speak.

Most of the events are free. They will be held at various campus locations. And many topics are of interest to people who may not think this month would hold anything for them. Topics include domestic abuse, interracial dating and being a minority Greek.

The events can be educational, worthwhile and fun. Try one, there is really no excuse not to.