California State University, Bakersfield held its inaugural Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Celebration on Wednesday.
The event, which took place in the Student Recreation Center, recognized around 30 students from cultures across Asia and the Pacific islands who are graduating from the university this month. Students received special stoles and certificates during the ceremony, which also featured a performance by the Tatou Uma dance group.
The celebration comes as the nation celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this May.
“Students, faculty, staff and friends, I invite you to mark this day on your calendars, for right at this moment, you are making history,” said Interim President Vernon B. Harper Jr. “Over the 54-year life of the university, we have launched many traditions that fill `Runners’ hearts with pride and affection. Every year we celebrate those traditions, they become more equally ingrained in our shared experience, and today we add a new tradition to that list.”
Biology graduate Ramneet Dhillon said she wouldn’t be where she is today if not for the sacrifices that her parents made in immigrating to the United States to give her a better life.
“Like many others, they arrived with hope in their hearts and dreams of a brighter future for themselves and their families,” she said. “They faced many challenges and made many sacrifices along the way, but through perseverance, resilience and sheer determination, they built a life for themselves and for their family. Their story is a story shared by many of us here today. The sacrifices of immigrating to the U.S. have paved the way for a better life for each and every one of us.”
Dhillon believes it’s important for students to acknowledge those who have helped them reach graduation but said it’s just as important for them to acknowledge their own contributions to their success.
“While we acknowledge the ties that bind and unite us, it’s equally important to celebrate what makes us unique,” she said. “Our cultures and individual experiences make us who we are today. Let’s be proud of ourselves, who we are, our heritage and our culture.”
Nursing major and Filipino Matthew Al Benjamin Nacua came with friends and family to Wednesday’s ceremony. He said he’s excited about next week’s commencement and is looking forward to starting his career.
“I’m very nervous because nursing is a big profession and very respected, but I’m also really grateful because I get to start a new chapter of my life with the support I have from my friends and family,” he said.
Nacua has already started applying for jobs and hopes to get a position as a hospital emergency room nurse.
“ER is a very fast-paced, very challenging. You never know what will come in,” he said. “I know in Kern County, there are a lot of health issues, and I feel I can help a lot of people. No one wants to be in a hospital. They’re in a vulnerable state, and I want to be there for them and provide safe care and guidance toward a more healthy, meaningful life.”
Nacua was excited to learn that CSUB would be holding a recognition ceremony for Asian graduates this year, something he believes has long been needed.
“I’m really happy because I know they do ones for the Chicano, African American students and have always wondered why there’s none for Asian students,” he said. “It’s an honor to be a part of this first one. I get to represent my culture in a wonderful way.”
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