Day 19 - Little Mekong Cultural District, Saint Paul, Minnesota

📌APIA Every Day (19) - Little Mekong is a vibrant business and cultural district located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, situated along University Avenue between MacKubin and Galtier streets in the Frogtown neighborhood. Established in the 1970s, the district was shaped by the influx of Vietnamese, Laos, Cambodian, and Hmong refugees, seeking new lives in Minnesota after the Vietnam War. Former Governor Wendell Anderson played a crucial role in resettlement efforts, with churches and social services agencies also contributing. The area became a hub for diverse businesses, including restaurants, retail, and services, reflecting the cultural richness of the Southeast Asian community. The Asian Economic Development Association (AEDA) led the initiative to brand the district as Little Mekong, aiming to develop it as an attractive destination, support businesses during light rail construction, share cultural traditions, and create a vibrant district for all to enjoy.

Facing the challenge of supporting businesses during the construction of a light-rail line, AEDA integrated art and cultural programming, coordinating with artists to engage with businesses. This strategy not only sustained businesses during construction but also contributed to the district's revitalization. The branding of Little Mekong, inspired by the Mekong River connecting Southeast Asian cultures, has not only attracted diverse visitors but also increased revenue for businesses and artists. The district's cultural activities, including events like the Night Market and the Little Mekong Water Festival, have not only enhanced economic value but also fostered a sense of pride in the Southeast Asian community, bridging cultural communities and increasing visibility for the AAPI population in the Twin Cities. Specifically, the Twin Cities boasts the largest urban Hmong population in the country; Hmong people are also the largest Asian group in Minnesota, with a population exceeding 95,000.

LEARN MORE:

Little Mekong Cultural District

Visit Saint Paul: Hmong History and Saint Paul

Explore Minnesota: Where to Find Hmong Culture & Cuisine in the Twin Cities

WeInChina Travel Guide: Saint Paul - Minnesota

Saint Paul Historical: Little Mekong

Twin Cities Daily Planet: The new Lagoon Restaurant

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