Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center

The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center (APAC) is a vital cultural institution dedicated to documenting, preserving, and sharing the diverse experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Established to ensure these communities’ stories are represented within the Smithsonian Institution, APAC develops innovative exhibitions, public programs, educational resources, and digital initiatives that explore the historical and contemporary contributions of APA communities. For undergraduate and postgraduate students, the center serves as an invaluable research resource, offering access to scholarly materials, archival collections, and interdisciplinary perspectives on topics ranging from immigration history and civil rights to artistic expression and cultural identity. APAC’s work helps illuminate the complex narratives of over 50 ethnic groups, fostering greater understanding and dialogue about America’s multicultural fabric. Students can utilize the center’s online portals, virtual exhibitions, and academic partnerships to enhance their studies in history, sociology, anthropology, art, and related fields, gaining insights into how APA experiences shape and are shaped by broader American society.