On May 18, staff from across the Department of Aviation came together to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month through sharing a variety of AAPI desserts. The annual "East Meets Sweets’" event drew a crowd for the potluck-style gathering, which was hosted by the airports' Capital Development Group. Staff brought a variety of desserts, many of them homemade by themselves or family members, and had a chance to share their own cultures and learn about those of their peers. 

Deputy Director of Aviation- Capital Development Api Appulingam shared that she is of Sri Lankan heritage and loves this opportunity to learn more about one another and highlight the AAPI representation across Department of Aviation. “Food is a community builder and we are coming together through food to learn more about each other."

Desserts included mango shrikhand, puri, kulfi and gulab jamun from India; kesari from Sri Lanka; bánh phu thê from Vietnam; butter cookies from Japan; yugwa from Korea; and more delicious treats.

CEO Atif Saeed, who noted that he was born and raised in Pakistan, shared a few words with team members. “This event brings us together around desserts, which can be such a unique and special form of culture for people. I’ve lived and worked in many places across the United States and my time here at Department of Aviation has shown it to be one of the most inclusive communities.”