Kansas State University

MANHATTAN -- Asian-American Heritage Month, observed at Kansas State University during March, celebrates the culture, history, traditions and contributions of Asian-Americans, according to Elizabeth Yang, senior in management, Manhattan, and president of the university's Asian American Student Union.

The purpose of the union is to foster unity and support for all Asian-American and international students on campus; to provide awareness of the Asian cultures to Kansas State University faculty, administrators, students, and community; to provide a means by which Asian and Asian-American students can become more visible to the Kansas State University community; and to create an atmosphere that promotes and teaches the equality of diverse people.

The Asian American Student Union has been working to bring in a variety of events throughout March to commemorate the month, Yang said. Events, all free and open to the public unless otherwise noted, include

* Film producer Curtis Chin will present "Vincent Who?" from 7-8 p.m. Monday, March 11,  in Forum Hall at the K-State Student Union. This documentary film tells the story of Vincent Chin, an Asian-American whose 1982 murder ignited the Asian-American civil rights movement.

* The Asian American Student Union and Sigma Lambda Beta, an international Latino-based fraternity, will present the award-winning hereandnow theatre from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, March 12, in the Union's Grand Ballroom. This theatre company uses its diverse cast to remind audiences that everyone has unique experiences and a story to tell. The critically acclaimed show is comprised of vignettes that use drama, music, dance and personal experiences to examine diversity and tolerance.

* Comedy Central's Eliot Chang will present his all new "Easily Excited" stand-up comedy tour from 8-10 p.m. Thursday, March 14, in the Union's Grand Ballroom. The show is sponsored by the Asian American Student Union and the Union Program Council. No one under 17 will be admitted to this event.

* The Asian American Student Union will host "Taste of Asia" from 7-9 p.m. Friday, March 15, in the Ecumenical Campus Ministry building, which is on Denison Avenue and across from Fiedler Hall. Guests will be able to sample a wide range of cuisine from across Asia.