A Legacy of Leadership & Resilience
In a constantly evolving world, honoring the communities that help shape and energize American culture matters more than ever. Each May, Zazzle shines a well-deserved spotlight on Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) voices, stories, and creativity. This year’s theme, “A Legacy of Leadership & Resilience,” invites us to recognize the trailblazers of the past while elevating the Creators defining the present and future.
Fearless Leaders of the 20th Century
The term ‘AAPI’ embodies the diverse range of people whose roots can be traced to Asia and the Pacific Islands. First established in 1978 as ‘Asian Pacific American Heritage Week,’ this event has since become a month-long honorary celebration. This is to commemorate the profound impact that these cultures have had on various facets of American society. The 20th century saw the emergence of many significant historical, cultural, and political AAPI community leaders. Here are just a few of these fearless individuals:
- Yuri Kochiyama, one of the most notable human rights activists of the 20th century, trailblazed change to the status quo through many civil rights and anti-war movements. Impelled by a past of segregation, she would align herself with the liberation of ethnic communities, famously stating: “Racism has placed all ethnic peoples in similar positions of oppression, poverty, and marginalization.”
- Patsy Takemoto Mink, born in 1927, would make history by becoming the first Asian-American woman to serve in Congress. Not only did she spearhead life-changing bills for education and women’s rights, but she would also become the first Asian American to run for U.S. president.
- Dr. Grace Lee Boggs, a prominent philosopher, writer, and activist, spread her influence throughout the United States. She fought for improving living conditions at a national level and, through this advocacy, became highly influential in the liberation of African Americans.
- Fred Korematsu, born in 1919, was a civil rights activist who, during World War II, fought the internment of Japanese Americans. His resistance would influence future generations and activists in a fight for freedom and liberation in 20th-century America.
- Bruce Lee was an American-born Chinese martial artist, actor, and prominent filmmaker, largely known for popularizing martial arts in Western film and the U.S. Most importantly, he assisted in changing the portrayal of Cantonese culture in Hollywood and, consequently, in the U.S.
Highlighting AAPI Creators
“Representation matters, and every design I create is a small step toward making diverse voices visible.” Zazzle Creator Sana Khan, sanainvi
In honoring past AAPI leaders, we also spotlight four marketplace Creators whose work captures the spirit of AAPI Heritage Month 2025.
Marisu Valencia – Marisu Paper Co.
Marisu Valencia infuses Filipino warmth into stationery that her 93-year-old mom proudly approves.
How has your AAPI heritage played a part in your product creation, if at all?
I consider my heritage in a lot of what I create, using colors and themes I know they enjoy. My 93-year-old Mom has the final approval on most of my designs, so I have to bring it!
How do your creations help celebrate and recognize AAPI heritage, given this year’s theme of “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience,” if they do?
That no matter what is going on in the world right now, my hope is that my creations will ultimately create a lasting influence on my Filipino culture.
Any highlights or other comments you’d like to share?
Zazzle has been a wonderful platform for me to show what the AAPI community can offer to everyone all over the world.
Yeeve 이재인 Rayne – GOLDEN_QUEEN
Yeeve 이재인 Rayne channels Korean shamanic art to reconnect us with ancestral power and wholeness.
Are there specific people, historical events, or movements that have inspired you?
I am a Korean-American shamanic artist and I am inspired by the vision of a unified and whole Korea, restoring the land to her original divine blueprint, before she was colonized and divided.
How do your creations help celebrate and recognize AAPI heritage, given this year’s theme of “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience,” if they do?
My art connects people to the power of their ancestry, their infinite nature, and their wholeness, which can never be broken or tainted by racism or limitations of any kind.
Sana Khan – sanainvi
Sana Khan celebrates South Asian identity through bold patterns and empowering quotes that amplify self-expression.
Are there specific people, historical events, or movements that have inspired you?
As someone from Pakistan, I’ve been deeply inspired by figures like Malala Yousafzai, whose courage, advocacy for girls’ education, and global impact have shown the world the power of a single voice. I also draw inspiration from Abdul Sattar Edhi, whose humanitarian work reminds me of the importance of compassion and service to others.
How do your creations help celebrate and recognize AAPI heritage, given this year’s theme of “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience,” if they do?
My creations celebrate AAPI heritage by reflecting the beauty, strength, and creativity of South Asian culture, especially through meaningful quotes, patterns, and designs that promote self-expression, confidence, and empowerment. As a Pakistani creator, I believe representation matters, and every design I create is a small step toward making diverse voices and stories more visible.
Urban Tapa – Urban Tapa Collective
Urban Tapa is creating graduation invitations that honor heritage as students step into new chapters.
How do your creations help celebrate and recognize AAPI heritage, given this year’s theme of “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience,” if they do?
I’m currently working on a heartfelt initiative to incorporate a meaningful touch of heritage into graduation invitations, giving upcoming graduates a beautiful way to celebrate their roots as they step into the next chapter of their lives.
Get Involved: Celebrate, Support, Share
- Experience AAPI Arts & Culture
- Visit museums showcasing Asian/Pacific collections.
- Try hands-on crafts like block printing or celadon pottery.
- Stream films and read books by AAPI creators.
- Support AAPI Communities Year-Round
- Shop AAPI-owned businesses on Zazzle and in your neighborhood.
- Donate to trusted AAPI nonprofits and mutual aid funds.
- Attend local cultural festivals and performances.
- Taste the Tradition
- Explore the culinary roots of Asian and Pacific cuisines.
- Learn how AAPI farmers pioneered sustainable methods.
- Host a potluck featuring dishes from across the diaspora.
At Zazzle, we take pride in amplifying our ecosystem’s rich heritage, knowledge, and contributions. Together, we honor a legacy of leadership and resilience while empowering the next generation to design what comes next.
