National Asian Pacific Americans in Sports Day is a dedicated celebration recognizing and honoring Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander athletes from the past, present, and future, highlighting their achievements and contributions to sports.
Quick Facts
When is it: August 3rd annually
Tagged as: Sports & Athletics, Cultural Heritage
What’s the hashtag: #APAinSports
When was it founded: 2024
Who founded it: Meeja Richards
History
This day was established to promote visibility of Asian Pacific American athletes and challenge stereotypes about Asian Americans in sports. It acknowledges athletes who have overcome prejudices and broken barriers, serving as role models for future generations. The celebration aims to combat the model minority stereotype and encourage Asian American youth to pursue their athletic dreams.
Timeline
- 1927: First minority athlete of Chinese-Hawaiian heritage breaks American sports color barrier
- 1948: Sammy Lee becomes first Asian American Olympic gold medalist
- 1947: Larry Kwong becomes first Asian player in NHL
- 1947: Wataru Misaka becomes first Asian American in BAA (NBA’s predecessor)
- 2024: National Asian Pacific Americans in Sports Day established
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August 03 | Sunday |
| 2026 | August 03 | Monday |
| 2027 | August 03 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | August 03 | Thursday |
| 2029 | August 03 | Friday |
| 2030 | August 03 | Saturday |
How It’s Observed
- Hosting APA/AAPI heritage events at sporting venues
- Consuming APA/AAPI sports media
- Supporting APA/AAPI athletes through merchandise
- Encouraging youth participation in sports
- Celebrating achievements of Asian Pacific American athletes
Fun Facts About Asian Americans in Sports
- Tiger Woods, of Thai and Chinese descent, has won 14 major golf titles
- Michelle Kwan dominated figure skating with multiple world championships
- Erik Spoelstra became the first Asian-American coach in the NBA
- Kristi Yamaguchi won Olympic gold in figure skating in 1992
Quiz
- Who was the first Asian American to win an Olympic gold medal?
- Which NBA coach is of Filipino descent?
- What sport did Sammy Lee win his Olympic medals in?
(Answers: 1. Victoria Manalo Draves, 2. Erik Spoelstra, 3. Diving)
FAQs
- Why August 3rd?
- To create a dedicated day during peak sports season
- Who can participate?
- Everyone is welcome to celebrate and support
- What sports are included?
- All sports where Asian Pacific Americans compete
Related
- Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
- National Girls & Women in Sports Day
- Olympic Day
- Asian Games
- Pacific Games