HONORING ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH AT NJPAC
(Newark, N.J. – May 6, 2026) New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) is proud to announce “Celebrating Asian American Trailblazers,” an event dedicated to recognizing and uplifting Asian American and Pacific Islander voices in our community.
This special FREE program, scheduled for May 11, 2026, underscores the significance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, spotlighting achievements, inspiring stories, and cultural contributions. This special event takes place Monday, May 11th at 5:00 p.m. in the Chase Room.
Film Screening: The evening will feature the PSEG Foundation Social Impact documentary, Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority, offering a compelling portrait of the first Asian American woman elected to the U.S. Congress.
Poetry Opening: Acclaimed poet Michelle Myers will open the event with a powerful original poetry performance.
Panel Discussion: A diverse panel of trailblazers will share their insights and experiences, moderated by Vani Krishnamurthy.
Panel Moderator and Panelists
Moderator: Vani Krishnamurthy – Community leader and advocate for cultural inclusion.
Panelists:
Alexandra Chang: Author and journalist highlighting Asian American narratives.
Billy Kim: Entrepreneur and mentor in the business community.
Nancy Loo: Veteran broadcast journalist and news anchor.
Hanna Mori: Policy advisor and champion for diversity.
Amman Deep Singh Seehra: Attorney and community organizer.
This event is made possible through the generous support of Ascend New Jersey and Dodge Poetry. Their partnership helps foster a vibrant, inclusive environment for learning and celebration.
About NJPAC
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States. It is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey — where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. As New Jersey’s anchor cultural institution, NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 12 million visitors (including more than two million children) since opening its doors in 1997 and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Visit njpac.org for more information @njpac