“Honoring Our Past, Preserving Our Future: The Importance of Cultural Heritage at Wing Luke”

From September -, we will be initiating a series that delves into the significance of historical conservation. A considerable portion of the program’s events will occur in the Chinatown-International District, an area designated in as one of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s most endangered sites nationwide. The overarching theme is Constructing a National Coalition, aiming to strengthen appreciation and dedication to Asian & Pacific Islander American (APIAheritage through historical preservation efforts. In preparation for the forum, journalist Carolyn Bick conducted interviews with several local collaborators such as the Wing Luke Museum.

Inquiring about your specific areas of focus in historic preservation, could you please elaborate on the efforts of the Wing Luke Museum in preserving Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPIstories? Through a distinctive Community Advisory Committee process, the museum collaboratively develops themes, messaging, and storyline for exhibits, rather than relying solely on individual expertise. Community member narratives are vividly portrayed through various mediums such as art, oral histories, and public programming.

Within the WLM procedure, investments are made in historic sites through the identification of both vanished and existing locations as components of an urban trail system. Public artworks are also installed to commemorate the heritage of exclusion, alongside a dedication to leasing or acquiring property for the revitalization of important areas. The distinctive and exceptional qualities of Seattle’s CID stem from its widespread appeal and the dedicated efforts of those who strive to safeguard it. While this devotion is not uncommon among surviving American Chinatowns, what sets Seattle’s CID apart is the substantial support it receives from the City of Seattle. The CID Visioning Group, bolstered by the municipality, plays a key role in this endeavor.

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPInonprofits, as well as AANHPI business owners, have collaborated effectively to ensure that the City is well-informed about the unique needs of its neighborhoods during the ongoing citywide planning initiatives. The significance of historic preservation holds a special place in your heart; it carries personal meaning for you. Despite being less prevalent in this region, there exists a notable population of individuals, primarily white, who are actively engaged in obstructing the teaching of America’s complete history. In these times of polarization, historic preservation serves as an enduring form of resistance. The narratives we gather and uphold serve as a tribute to our past.

Our institution aims to preserve historical artifacts and ensure the transmission of knowledge to future cohorts. Our archives serve as a testament to the collective history of our societies in the United States. In what manner does your establishment facilitate public access to historical preservation? How can individuals participate in historic preservation initiatives, irrespective of their affiliation with formal committees or specialized organizations? We are privileged to operate as a museum, allowing individuals to either visit us in person or engage with our offerings digitally. We actively seek individuals who are interested in contributing to our community advisory endeavors and extend an invitation to anyone seeking to do so.

What particular event or, more broadly, activities occurring behind closed doors are you looking forward to discussing with attendees of the APIAHiP Forum from across the nation? As an integral part of the APIAHiP experience, participants will have the opportunity to explore the museum at their leisure during their stay in Seattle. Whether perusing the galleries or taking part in a historic hotel tour, attendees can witness firsthand the telling and preservation of community narratives. Notably, as articulated by former Executive Director Beth Takekawa, the neighborhood itself serves as our most expansive exhibit. We anticipate that forum attendees will appreciate this unique aspect of the museum experience.

Learninng Outcome

In conclusion, historical preservation is a vital component of honoring our past and shaping our future. Our museum is dedicated to providing public access to this important work, whether through in-person visits or digital engagement. We believe that everyone has a role to play in preserving our shared history, and we welcome individuals from all backgrounds to join us in our community advisory efforts. By working together, we can ensure that the stories of our past continue to shape and inspire us for generations to come.