The Fight to Save Chinatowns in America | Minjia Yan | TEDxLasVegas

Historical Context & Challenges - Chinatowns have served as symbols of immigrant strength and cultural hubs for over 160 years [4] - Out of 88 Chinatowns in the US, only half remain active, facing threats like rising rents, gentrification, and cultural erosion [3][4] - Some Chinatowns were intentionally destroyed, such as the one in Reno, Nevada, burned down in 1908 [10][11] - The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated small business closures due to language barriers and lack of access to assistance [14] Community & Internal Dynamics - Chinatowns often face internal political challenges, including politicians making empty promises and community leaders prioritizing personal gain [17] - These broken systems create distrust and division, hindering advocacy for the Asian-American community [18] Preservation & Future - The disappearance of Chinatowns reflects a broader trend of affordable housing loss in urban areas [20] - Preservation efforts should focus on empowering Chinatowns to evolve while staying rooted in their values and traditions [27] - Supporting small businesses, advocating for supportive policies, and documenting history are crucial for preserving Chinatowns [23] - Young Asian-Americans are playing a key role in reimagining and saving their neighborhoods [25]