MultiCulti Corner visits LA's Chinatown for Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) month
Ni Hao!
Mixed Up Clothing is proud to support our partner, The MultiCulti Corner, as they teach multicultural children about other cultures around Los Angeles.
On this beautiful day we were introduced to one of the country’s oldest and most historic Chinese enclaves by docent, Helen Hua of Undiscovered Chinatown.
We met at the entry into Chinatown which is highlighted by a large dragon above Hill St.
Helen explained that the Chinese immigrants moved into this area as early as 1852 and the first Chinese were mostly men. She went on to share that they were laborers doing work such as laundry, gardening, and building roads. There was heavy discrimination going around in the later part of the 19th century which led to The Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882.
We made a stop in Central Plaza, dedicated in 1938, which gives you a taste of true Chinese culture!
It was at this time that this area officially became the first modern American Chinatown.
Our next stop was the intricately designed Taoist Temple, Thien Hau Temple. It is one of the more popular areas for worship among Asian residents.
The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea and patron saint to sailors and fishermen.
The children gathered around to learn about the deities. They were allowed to burn incense which is used as part of the worship of the deities.
As we wandered the streets of this lively streets of Chinatown, we made a stop at the Chinese Historical Society.
After much walking, the kids were hungry. It didn't help that we passed several bakeries, restaurants. Helen walked us to a restaurant where we joined locals and other tourists and ate dim sum.
After a few hours, we concluded our walking tour and exploration of this vibrant neighborhood full of variety and cultural activities.
We encourage you to take part in learning about Chinatown by heading over to The MultiCulti Corner youtube video .