Oakland’s Chinatown: Hidden Stories & the Search for Belonging

Oakland's Chinatown is a vibrant hub for immigrants and communities across the Asian diaspora. Come learn about the stories of the search for belonging in this historic neighborhood starting in the 1850s during California's Gold Rush. We'll start at the Chinese American Citizens Alliance lodge established over 100 years ago, where you can view photos of community leaders from the early 20th century from 2-3pm with an open house and presentation. From 3-5pm, those who want to participate in a walking tour can visit the sites most loved by the Chinatown community, and meet some of the local leaders. We'll also share the best places to get the neighborhood's tastiest cultural cuisine!

Host Information:

The Chinese American Citizens Alliance (C.A.C.A.) helps Chinese Americans across the United States advocate for their civil rights, preserve their cultural heritage, and make a difference in their communities through education, leadership, and community service since 1895.

Lailan Sandra Huen is an educator, facilitator and storyteller with over 20 years in schools, youth development, public service, and community organizing. Her family first came to San Francisco Chinatown around the Gold Rush, and sought refuge in Oakland Chinatown after the 1906 earthquake. She authored the "Our Neighborhoods" report for the National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development which documents best practices from across the country to protect and bolster AAPI cultural districts.  Lailan holds a Bachelors in Asian American and Urban Studies from Columbia University, a Masters in Media Studies from The New School, and is a Doctoral Student in East-West Psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies - on her journey to become a professor with a focus in Asian American Studies and Racial Healing. Her organizing for community benefits agreements and to preserve Oakland Chinatown is featured in the award-winning documentary Alice Street, a story of cross-racial solidarity, cultural resilience and belonging in urban communities.  Lailan is the Oakland Chinatown official tour guide for the Oakland Heritage Alliance, and has done tours for schools, educators and local residents.