A New Generation’s Chinatown Reboot

City Cast Chicago

This weekend, the Chinatown Summer Fair is back after taking a year off because of the pandemic. The event is also two days instead of one this year and is expected to draw about 40,000 people. There will be hip-hop music, live DJs, and booths from members of all of Chicago’s AAPI communities. Some of this year's changes are part of a push by younger Chinatown residents to make the neighborhood more welcoming and accessible and to remind all of Chicago that there’s something for them in Chinatown. We talk to Shifa Zhong who is using his social media presence and marketing skills to promote the event, and Ben Lau, a longtime member of the community who wants to see younger residents stay in or move back to Chinatown.

Guests:

Shifa Zhong-Owner, Tian Represent; Chinatown Shifa

Ben Lau-Executive Director, Chinese American Museum of Chicago

Links:

Chinatown Summer Fair

Chinatown: the Next Generation from Chicago Reader

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