MACOMB, IL - - The Western Illinois University History Department and University Libraries are co-sponsoring two events that honor Asian and Asian-American people at WIU and in the Western Illinois region.

The events are in part a response to instances of anti-Asian discrimination, local and national, both in history and today.

Beginning in March, the Malpass Library's third floor will host an exhibition, "Perceptions and Experiences of Asians and Asian Americans at Western Illinois University," on display through the summer. The exhibition comprises five panels, each displaying artifacts from the University Archives and other sources that highlight the historical experiences of people identifying as Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese or South Asian.

Additionally, the WIU History Department and University Libraries will host a speakers panel at 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 16. in the Malpass Library Garden Lounge.

Facilitated by WIU History Professor Febe Pamonag, the panel will comprise individuals identifying as Asian or Asian American who will share their experiences.

The exhibition's online gallery is at timroberts.org/asiansatwiu/.

Both events are open & free to the public. For more information, contact the WIU History Department at 309-298-1053.