Asia Society Texas Center is offering free admission this month

Context: The Houston-based nonprofit presents exhibits, performances, family activities and policy discussions centered on Asia and Asian American experiences.

What they're saying: "With our mission, we celebrate [Asian and Asian American heritage] all year long, we know that in May, everyone celebrates along beside us," Todd-Wong says.

• "We just wanted to remove all barriers to access our beautiful exhibitions and to invite the entire community to join us during the month."

Flashback: The tradition of celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage in May began in 1979. AAPI month became federally recognized in 1992.

• May was chosen to mark the arrival of the first Japanese immigrant in 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869, built largely by thousands of Chinese laborers.

Zoom in: Asia Society Texas is packing May with special programming, including:

• An Indian music performance on May 1.
• Guided architecture tour of the center on May 2.
• Emerging artists showcase on May 9.
• Two exhibitions open on May 15.
• Fashion show on May 14.
• Boba party on May 28.