May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month—a time to honor the deep and lasting contributions AANHPI communities have made to the labor movement in the United States. From agriculture to domestic work to academic and policy leadership, AANHPI individuals have shaped the direction of unions through courageous organizing and advocacy. This month is an opportunity to celebrate not only cultural heritage but also the powerful legacy of labor activism that has strengthened the fight for workers’ rights across industries.

Key figures like Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz were instrumental in organizing the 1965 Delano Grape Strike, uniting Filipino and Mexican farmworkers to demand fair wages and better working conditions—an alliance that led to the formation of the United Farm Workers. In the realm of domestic labor, Ai-Jen Poo has led national efforts to protect the rights of domestic workers, many of whom are immigrant women of color, through the National Domestic Workers Alliance. Meanwhile, leaders like Kent Wong have focused on education and leadership development, ensuring that the next generation of AANHPI unionists are prepared to carry the movement forward.

Unions today are stronger because of the vision and resilience of AANHPI leaders past and present. As we celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month, labor organizations have a vital role to play in recognizing these contributions, uplifting AANHPI voices, and fostering inclusive leadership at every level. By honoring this rich history and continuing the work of these trailblazers, we move closer to building a truly equitable labor movement for all.