From Legacy to Longevity: Our APAHM Celebration
When you walk through Chinatown, the legacy of the neighborhood is palpable – from the historic storefronts lining the streets to the generations of families who have lived here for decades.
That legacy is a reminder that we owe our progress and success to our ancestors, family, friends, and neighbors who forged thriving communities and lives with their grit and resilience.
While that heritage is embedded in our neighborhood – the pandemic, increased anti-Asian hate, and ongoing gentrification jeopardize the future of Chinatown, and thus, our small businesses and residents.
We face a pivotal moment to preserve and protect the legacy of our beloved neighborhood, while building for a sustainable and resilient future.
We're here to say Chinatown will be here for all future generations, from all walks of life to enjoy.
Join us in celebrating Chinatown and our wider community this month. We’ll spotlight the businesses, community voices, and the artists who represent our history and path forward.
Our Programming
THEN & NOW
Tracing the evolution of our small businesses
ARTIST SPOTLIGHTS
Sharing the art of AAPI artists
THE VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY
Elevating the voices of our neighbors and leaders
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
Highlighting businesses giving back to Chinatown
The Artist Behind the Design
This month’s theme was designed by Loe Lee. Loe is an award-winning art director & illustrator in New York City. Her family immigrated to Chinatown in the late 1960's and the community has been an integral part of their lives for the last three generations. Loe's work appears in major campaigns for: Coca-Cola, Uniqlo, Google, La Mer, VICE, and more. When she’s not drawing, Loe is trying new Cantonese recipes and cuddling her two big dogs.
Made in collaboration with the WtC team, this year’s APAHM design is inspired by the collage of vibrant signage and graphics iconic to the Chinatown neighborhood. From outdoor signs, to fruit stickers, to old-style menus, the design aims to celebrate the community’s local organizations and family-owned businesses.
The hero illustration is a dedication to the legacy business owners of Chinatown, our aunties and uncles, that raised us up and inspired the next generation to come back and reinvest into the community.
