Honoring Jewish American Heritage, Asian-American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander
(AANPI) Heritage and Mental Health Awareness
At Oakland Community College (OCC), culture is more than acknowledged—it is lived,
shared and celebrated. Through heritage observances, awareness initiatives and campus
events, OCC honors the histories, perspectives and experiences that strengthen its
community and support student success.
“Heritage and awareness months invite us to pause, learn, and lead with empathy,”
said Kristina Marshall, Director of Institutional Standards and Practices. “When we
honor the histories and well-being of our community members, we build a campus culture
rooted in kindness and care—where everyone feels seen, valued and able to flourish.”
The month of May shines a spotlight on the enduring legacies and traditions of Jewish
Americans, Asians, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, and encourages
reflection on the importance of mental and emotional well-being.
Jewish American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month honors the contributions of Jewish Americans to U.S.
history and culture. Established in 2006 through a proclamation by President George
W. Bush, the observance recognizes more than 350 years of Jewish influence in art,
science, politics, business and civil rights.
Learn More:
- Jewish American Heritage Month – Library of Congress
- Jewish Historical Society of Michigan
- Michigan Jewish History – Jewish Virtual Library
Visit:
- The Zekelman Holocaust Center, Farmington Hills
- Auschwitz online tour
Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month
AANHPI Heritage Month honors the customs, traditions and achievements of people whose
roots trace to Asia and the Pacific Islands. The observance highlights the lasting
cultural, artistic and societal impact of AANHPI communities.
Learn More:
- AANHPI Heritage Month – Library of Congress
- Fun Facts – U.S. Census Bureau
- ASIAN | How You See Me – YouTube
Visit:
- AAPI Programs at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)
- McGregor Memorial Conference Center at Wayne State University – designed by Japanese American architect Minoru Yamasaki in 1958
Mental Health Awareness Month
Observed each May, Mental Health Awareness Month promotes understanding, education
and open conversations around the importance of mental well-being. First recognized
in 1949 by Mental Health America, the observance encourages greater awareness, access
to resources, and open conversations about mental health in all areas of life—including
education, work and community spaces.
OCC supports mental wellness through Mental Health First Aid Training and an established,
dedicated Mental Health Advisory Committee.
Learn More:
- Mental Health America – Mental Health Month
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- CDC – Mental Health Resources
About OCC
Oakland Community College (OCC) has educated over one million students since 1965.
OCC offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs and is committed to student
success with affordable tuition, support services, flexible class options and top
transfer opportunities. The College serves more than 20,000 students annually while
advancing our community through education, training and career support. OCC is nationally
recognized as Michigan’s top online college, and seventh in the U.S., by Newsweek’s America’s Top Online Colleges 2025. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
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Media Contact: Marketing & Communications | (248) 341-2020 | contactus@oaklandcc.edu