Mamatha Chamarthi is the Head of Software Business and Product Management – Global, Americas and Asia
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month – a celebration of the tremendous contributions Asians and Pacific Islanders have made to the social, cultural and economic strength of the United States.
Like most commemorative months, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month originated with Congress and was extended to a month-long observance in 1992.
The month of May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first people from Japan to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869.
Today, during this very concerning time of rising violence against Asians, observance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month takes on special importance challenging all of us to deepen our understanding and appreciation of the history and contributions of Asian/Pacific people.
It also inspires us to acknowledge and respect their well-earned claim as members of our American society and our rich cultural mosaic.
Recent events motivated by mistrust, frustration, anger, or blame directed towards a certain group of people are damaging.
They can cause emotional distress, feelings of fear or uncertainty, and negatively affect overall well-being and productivity.
So, this year, as we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and strive to deepen our appreciation of these vibrant, diverse cultures, let’s also renew our commitment to always be kind, welcoming and to stand up for others.
At Stellantis, we are blessed by the contributions our Asian/Pacific employees make to the success of our company and I am proud to serve as an executive sponsor of our Asians Connected Together Business Resource Group, which is one of 11 employee-directed organizations representing an array of affinity communities.
Our entire Stellantis community stands in solidarity with our Asian American and Pacific Islander colleagues, friends and communities and with all people targeted by violence and oppression.
