I’m an ABC — American Born Chinese — whose life has revolved around Chinatowns. Chinatowns are more than a neighborhood or tourist destination. They are a bridge that connects generations across the Asian diaspora to their culture and heritage. Before I ever made my first family visit to China as a kid, Chinatown connected me to the essence and gave me a community that I could call my own.
From the outset of the pandemic to the surge of Anti-Asian hate crimes that continue to sweep the United States, now more than ever the Asian American community needs the support to protect businesses, the elderly, and those most vulnerable from racism and xenophobia. This shirt is my love letter and rallying cry to proudly wear Chinatown on my back and represent — from Honolulu to Houston, Seattle to Philadelphia, Oakland to New York — the millions of Asian Americans that call this place home. Each purchase is a showing of solidarity and support for the AAPI community and Chinatowns across this city, country, and the world. Chinatowns are a testament to survival in a new land, aspiring to make it your own and be part of the greater fabric of the community despite the circumstances that brought you there.
Chinatowns Unite, Chinatown Forever.
Chinatown Forever is a running project in response to the resurgence of anti-Asian hate in the United States and across the world in response to centuries of xenophobia and racism. I felt compelled to contribute somehow despite the rising COVID cases and hate crimes in the city that raised me. As this continues, all net profits will be donated to those on the ground supporting the AAPI community, Chinatowns all over, and the ongoing fight against anti-Asian racism and xenophobia.
So far, we have raised over $1,000 and given all the funds to Send Chinatown Love, AAPI Women Lead, and Asian Americans for Equality.
More updates to come.
Support our cause! Visit our Everpress Store
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Special Thanks
An Rong Xu, Photographer
Capsar Lam, Synoptic Office
