Chinese American History, Asian American Experiences

Join Mellon Foundation President Elizabeth Alexander as we celebrate under-told Chinese American stories and understand their place in our rich tapestry. A virtual event that is part history lesson and part conversation, this program will feature three leading authors, scholars, and advocates: Dr. Erika Lee, Dr. Mae Ngai, and Helen Zia.

Chinese immigrants and their descendants have shaped the United States, but their experiences are not always acknowledged as part of our collective history. Chinese American stories touch on every facet of the American experience: from those of immigrants who arrived at the US via the Angel Island Immigration Station in San Francisco; to builders of the transcontinental railroad connecting America’s east and west; drivers of urban development and access to public education; and subjects of discrimination and anti-Chinese legislation. In sharing these histories, we can cultivate a fuller understanding of our current moment and promote truthful narratives about Chinese American histories and Asian American experiences.