Day 193: Chinatown, Phoenix, Arizona
📌APIA Every Day (193) - Located in Phoenix, Arizona, once stood a Chinatown that developed in the 1870s as Chinese immigrants, primarily single men, formed a community to support each other amid widespread discrimination. Initially, they settled at First and Adams Street, building a community that allowed them to maintain and celebrate their Chinese heritage. By 1890, due to anti-Chinese sentiment and development pressures, the community moved several blocks south to a less visible area centered at First and Madison Streets. This new Chinatown became larger and included various businesses such as grocery stores and laundries. During this time, Louie Ong served as the unofficial mayor, maintaining order within the community.
As the Chinese community prospered, they moved out of Chinatown to take advantage of the city's growth and opportunities, distancing themselves from its negative reputation. Many Chinese-owned businesses began operating outside of Chinatown, further dispersing the Chinese population. This was further encouraged by Chinese leaders who wanted residents to relocate as a means of minimizing attention and conflict associated with high-profile Chinatowns. Additionally, urban redevelopment in the 1980s, including the construction of American West Arena, led to the demolition of the remaining Chinatown structures. Over time, the Chinese community in Phoenix integrated more fully into the broader city, contributing to its economic and social landscape. The combination of economic success, social integration, business relocation, and urban redevelopment ultimately led to the disappearance of Phoenix's Chinatown. How can we best remember and honor the contributions made in Phoenix’s Chinatown?
LEARN MORE:
azcentral: Why doesn't Phoenix have a Chinatown or Little Italy? Valley 101 podcast explores
Arizona PBS: Phoenix Chinese American History
Tour Phoenix's Asian American Heritage: Chinatowns of Phoenix
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