📌APIA Every Day (30) - New York Chinatown, tracing its origins to the mid-19th century, serves as a living testament to the resilience of immigrant communities amid historical challenges. Formed during significant waves of Chinese migration, including those attracted by the California Gold Rush and recruited for the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, Chinatown became a thriving cultural hub. Despite facing discriminatory legislation such as the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, the community flourished and expanded, absorbing neighboring areas like Little Italy and the Lower East Side. By the 20th century, it had solidified its status as the largest Chinatown in the United States.

The mid-20th century marked a significant expansion of Chinatown's boundaries, absorbing parts of Little Italy and the Lower East Side. The Chinese population in New York City continued to grow substantially, reaching over 4,000 residents by 1930. However, the passage of exclusionary laws and economic decline in the 1870s slowed Chinatown's growth. The neighborhood faced a new set of challenges in the 1950s with the China Village Plan, an urban renewal project threatening to replace the historic core with a large-scale housing project. Chinatown's resilience and community advocacy ultimately thwarted this plan, allowing the neighborhood to persist and thrive.

The latter half of the 20th century brought changes to immigration policies, lifting exclusionary laws and allowing a new wave of Chinese immigrants. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 played a pivotal role, enabling more immigrants from Asia to settle in the U.S. Manhattan's Chinatown expanded its boundaries further, surpassing other Chinatowns in Brooklyn and Queens by 1980. Despite challenges like urban development, rising rents, and the encroachment of gentrification, the community persisted.

In the contemporary landscape, Chinatown faces a new set of challenges, notably the contentious battle against the construction of a mega jail. This modern struggle encapsulates the ongoing tension between the preservation of Chinatown's distinct identity and the pressures of urban development. Luxury condominiums and expansive projects pose threats to the neighborhood's historic character. The fight against the mega jail has become a rallying point for the next generation of Chinese Americans, reflecting a collective effort to safeguard the cultural heritage of Chinatown. Young activists and community members are actively engaged in campaigns and initiatives aimed at resisting these changes, underscoring their commitment to ensuring that Chinatown remains an authentic and integral part of New York City.

The involvement of the younger generation extends beyond the immediate fight against the mega jail, encompassing broader initiatives to protect and nurture Chinatown's unique cultural fabric. From advocating for affordable housing to supporting local businesses impacted by the pandemic, the next generation is at the forefront of multifaceted efforts to preserve the presence and authenticity of Chinatown in the ever-evolving landscape of New York City.

📌APIA Every Day (29) - The National Park of American Samoa, established on October 31, 1988, stands as a testament to the heritage of American Samoa, a U.S. territory located some 2,600 miles southwest of Hawaii. Encompassing 13,500 acres, including 9,500 acres of land and 4,000 acres of marine environments, the park reflects the enduring connection between the people of American Samoa and their sacred land. In contrast to the independent nation of Samoa, American Samoa has a distinct political status as a U.S. territory, and the park serves as a symbol of the shared history and unique identity of this remote Pacific region.

Since the arrival of the first Polynesian settlers 3,000 years ago, the Samoan people have fostered a deep reverence for their island environment, managing it communally and considering it sacred. The park's rainforest, the only mixed-species paleotropical rainforest on U.S. soil, spans five distinct communities and safeguards hundreds of plant species. This unique ecosystem is a living testament to the enduring cultural practices of American Samoa. The coral reefs surrounding the islands, part of the park's marine environments, not only protect diverse marine life but also embody the Samoans' commitment to sustainable stewardship of their natural resources. The park, established through a collaborative effort with Samoan chiefs who signed a 50-year lease in 1993, emphasizes the importance of fa'asamoa—the customs, beliefs, and traditions of the Samoan people. The park's commitment to preserving the Samoan way of life is underscored by its unique homestay program, allowing visitors to experience firsthand the warmth and hospitality of the Samoan extended family, known as the aiga.

To embark on this cultural and natural journey, visitors can fly from Honolulu to Pago Pago, the capital of American Samoa, and explore the largest island, Tutuila, as well as the remote Manu'a Islands. It's crucial to distinguish between Samoa, an independent nation, and American Samoa, a U.S. territory, as each entity boasts its own distinct history, political status, and cultural tapestry. The National Park of American Samoa, with its focus on heritage and stewardship, stands as a living embodiment of the intertwined narratives that define this remote corner of the South Pacific, as the only National Park Service site south of the Equator.

📌APIA Every Day (28) - Little Tokyo, located in downtown Los Angeles, is a historic Japanese commercial district with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Initially settled by Japanese immigrants seeking employment opportunities following the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, Little Tokyo grew rapidly, becoming the largest Japanese community in the United States before World War II. The district flourished with businesses, religious institutions, schools, and newspapers, forming a vibrant cultural and commercial hub.

The early 20th century saw the development of a distinct commercial district in Little Tokyo, supported by organizations like the Central Japanese Association and the Japanese American Chamber of Commerce. However, the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941 and the subsequent internment of Japanese Americans during World War II brought an abrupt end to Little Tokyo's prosperity. The forced evacuation led to the closure of businesses and the displacement of residents, transforming the once-thriving community into a ghost town.

After the war, Japanese Americans began to return to Little Tokyo, reclaiming their businesses and attempting to rebuild the community. The post-war period, however, saw significant changes, including urban renewal projects, the construction of the Los Angeles Police headquarters, and a reduction in the district's size. In the 1970s, a redevelopment movement spurred by Japanese corporations led to the revival of Little Tokyo. The area experienced economic revitalization, with new shopping plazas and hotels opening alongside the preservation of historic landmarks.

Today, Little Tokyo stands as a National Historic Landmark and cultural district, representing the enduring legacy of the Japanese American community. The district features significant landmarks such as the Japanese American National Museum, the Hompa Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, and the Far East Building. Despite the challenges and transformations over the years, Little Tokyo remains a cultural focal point, hosting events like the Nisei Week Festival and serving as a symbol of resilience for the Japanese American community in Southern California

📌APIA Every Day (27) - The Delano Grape Strike, a pivotal event that catalyzed the modern farmworker movement, began on September 8, 1965, in Delano, California. Led by prominent labor leader Larry Itliong, Filipino farmworkers from the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee voted to strike against grape growers in the area. Facing challenging conditions, including low wages and lack of basic amenities, the Filipino workers sought support from the mostly Latino National Farm Workers Association, led by Cesar Chavez. On September 16, 1965, Mexican Independence Day, the two groups joined forces, merging to form the United Farm Workers Organizing Committee. Over the next five years, an interracial union, fueled by solidarity and support from figures like Senator Robert F. Kennedy, emerged victorious in establishing the United Farm Workers, marking the first enduring farmworkers union in U.S. history.

Despite the significance of the Delano Grape Strike in shaping the farmworker movement, its origins are often overshadowed by the fame of Cesar Chavez and the United Farm Workers. In the town of Delano, efforts are underway to bring attention to the Filipino contributions to this historical struggle. Filipino Hall, where the decision to strike was made, is considered sacred ground by residents like Roger Gadiano, who describes it as their "Mecca." Many younger generations, including those with familial ties to the strike, express surprise at the lack of education about this crucial part of history in schools. Efforts to rectify this gap include recent legislation in California recognizing Larry Itliong Day and mandating the teaching of farmworker movement history in public schools. As awareness grows, individuals are working to ensure that the sacrifices and achievements of those who participated in the Delano Grape Strike are acknowledged and remembered.

📌APIA Every Day (26) - New Orleans East, renowned as Village de L'Est, stands as a poignant testament to the Vietnamese immigrant experience, forming a significant enclave following the Fall of Saigon in 1975. A critical chapter in this history involves the efforts of Catholic Charities, spearheaded by Archbishop Philip M. Hannan, who played a pivotal role in sponsoring around 1,000 Vietnamese families in New Orleans. Fueled by the climate similarities to Vietnam and the welcoming Catholic environment, the initial wave of immigrants settled in Section 8 properties in the Versailles area of New Orleans East. This marked the genesis of a vibrant community that not only weathered adversities but also became an integral part of the city's multicultural identity.

The resilience of the Vietnamese community in New Orleans East was put to the test during the devastating Hurricane Katrina in 2005. In response to the landfill threat, Versailles residents mobilized, rebuilding over half of the neighborhood by January 2006 through personal efforts, as government support remained scarce. The community leaders formulated an ambitious redevelopment plan, including senior housing, a cultural center, and a community farm. However, their struggle intensified when Mayor Ray Nagin opened the nearby Chef Menteur landfill without an environmental impact study, leading to widespread protests and legal battles at both state and federal levels. Despite the profound challenges posed by the storm's aftermath, the community displayed remarkable strength and determination, earning recognition for their swift recovery efforts.

However, one enduring struggle in the post-Katrina era revolves around the redevelopment of the Versailles Apartments, a key residential complex in the Vietnamese enclave. The proposed transformation, known as the Village of Versailles, has encountered opposition and controversy from some residents who argue against the demolition of the original structures, claiming ongoing occupancy despite the complex being padlocked. This ongoing debate underscores the intricate dynamics of urban development, affordable housing, and the preservation of cultural identity within the Vietnamese community in New Orleans East.

📌APIA Every Day (25) - Iolani Palace, located in downtown Honolulu on the Island of Oahu, stands as a unique and powerful symbol of Hawaiian independence. Constructed in 1882, it served as the official residence and capitol for the last reigning monarchs of the Kingdom of Hawai'i, King Kalakaua and Queen Lili'uokalani. The palace, an architectural marvel designed in the distinctive "American Florentine" style, showcased a blend of Italian Renaissance elements with features unique to Hawaiian architecture. Equipped with modern amenities such as electric lighting, indoor plumbing, and an early telephone, 'Iolani Palace reflected the kingdom's commitment to progress and modernity. The palace held significance not only as the monarch's residence but also as the seat of government, where official business and diplomatic events unfolded.

The history of 'Iolani Palace is intertwined with the political upheavals of the late 19th century. Queen Lili'uokalani's attempts to strengthen the monarchy faced opposition from powerful interests, leading to the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawai'i in 1893. The palace witnessed the dramatic trial of the queen, held in the Throne Room, where she was falsely accused of aiding a counter-revolution. Despite her denial of any involvement, she was found guilty, fined, and sentenced to imprisonment. The palace, once a symbol of Hawaiian sovereignty, became a government headquarters for the new provisional government, marking a transformative period in the islands' history.

Following years of neglect, 'Iolani Palace underwent extensive restoration in the 1970s, led by the Friends of 'Iolani Palace. Today, the palace stands as a museum open to the public, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of its past. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored first and second floors, featuring the State Dining Room, Throne Room, King's and Queen's suites, and more. The palace grounds, with structures like The Coronation Pavilion and The Royal Tomb, contribute to the rich historical tapestry surrounding 'Iolani Palace. The significance of this landmark extends beyond its architectural and historical value; it stands as a testament to the resilience of Hawaiian culture and the enduring legacy of a kingdom that once thrived in the Pacific.

📌APIA Every Day (24) - Richard Aoki's legacy is a complex tapestry woven through his involvement with the Black Panther Party and his role as a political informant for the FBI during the politically charged 1960s and 1970s. Aoki, born in 1938 to Japanese-American parents who had experienced internment during World War II, grew up in a racially diverse neighborhood in West Oakland. His early life experiences, including military service and witnessing police brutality, shaped his militant ideology.

Aoki became a field marshal in the Black Panther Party, contributing to the organization's efforts to combat police brutality through activities like the "shotgun patrols." His involvement went beyond the African-American community, as he played a key role in the Asian-American Political Alliance (AAPA) and participated in the Third World Liberation Front Strike at UC Berkeley. Aoki's commitment to social justice extended to his activism in the broader context of ethnic studies, where he sought to connect the struggles of different minority groups.

However, Aoki's legacy is complicated by the revelation of newly released FBI records indicating that he was a political informant for the FBI, providing information on fellow activists, including Black Panther leaders Huey Newton and Bobby Seale, whom he met at Merritt Community College. Notably, the records themselves indicate that Aoki did not fully cooperate with his FBI handlers. Much of the information he shared was already public knowledge, and the documents suggest that he made deliberate efforts to align with the movement when critical choices arose.

Despite the controversy surrounding his informant role, Aoki continued to be involved in activism and education. He played a crucial role in the establishment of an ethnic studies program at UC Berkeley and later returned to Merritt College to teach. Aoki's life and legacy invite reflection on the complexities of political activism, loyalty, and the impact of government surveillance on social justice movements.

📌APIA Every Day (23) - The first documented landing of Filipinos in what is now the Continental United States occurred on October 18, 1587, at Morro Bay. They arrived aboard the Novohispanic ship Nuestra Señora de Buena Esperanza, part of the Manila galleon trade between the Viceroyalty of New Spain and the East Indies. During their brief stay, the Filipino crew came in contact with the Chumash people, leading to a tragic encounter resulting in the death of a Filipino crew member. This event marked the earliest documented instance of Asians in California and the United States.

The Chumash people, indigenous to the central and southern coastal regions of California, had established their territories thousands of years prior. European explorers, including Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo in 1542, made initial contact with the Chumash. The 1587 interaction with the Filipinos was another chapter in their encounters with outsiders. Despite the tragic events, the significance of this landing was not widely recognized until efforts by the Filipino American National Historical Society in 1992. A monument in Morro Bay was dedicated in 1995, and Filipino American History Month, established in 2009, now commemorates this historic event.

The landing in Morro Bay in 1587 was a pivotal moment, marking the first documented connection between Asian Americans and Indigenous/Native Americans in what is now the United States. This historical event, while often overlooked, contributes to the broader narrative of cultural interactions and migrations that have shaped the diverse history of America.

📌APIA Every Day (22) - The Jose P. Lujan 1911 house, located in Hagåtña, Guam, is a remarkable historical landmark that not only embodies the architectural heritage of the island but also serves as a poignant link to Guam's complex history. Constructed by CHamoru resident Jose Pangelinan Lujan, the two-story mamposteria structure showcases the Spanish-influenced construction method, utilizing coral stones from Hagåtña Bay. Lujan's intent to rent the house to US Naval officers adds an intriguing layer to its history, reflecting Guam's transition during the early 20th century when the island experienced the end of Spanish rule and the arrival of the Americans.

The Lujan House has weathered the tumultuous events of World War II, standing as a resilient witness to the Japanese occupation and subsequent American forces' efforts to retake Guam. The devastating impact of the war, including bombings and the restructuring of Hagåtña into city blocks, is a crucial backdrop to the house's survival. Post-war reconstruction efforts led to the loss of many historic structures, streets, and landmarks, making the restored Lujan House/Guam Institute a rare touchstone to life in pre-war Guam. The Guam Preservation Trust's meticulous rehabilitation, completed in 2010, not only preserved the architectural integrity of the house but also revitalized it as a space for the trust's offices on the upper floor and community use on the lower floor.

In addition to its architectural significance, the Lujan House is entwined with the broader narrative of Guam's history. The house served as the location for the Guam Institute, one of the island's first private schools during the Naval Era, further highlighting its role as an institution of learning. The Guam Preservation Trust's efforts in rehabilitating the house, along with plans to recreate the old road and install interpretive signage, contribute to the preservation of Guam's cultural and historical identity. The house's listing on both the Guam and National Registers of Historic Places underscores its importance in safeguarding the tangible heritage of Old Hagåtña and commemorating the resilience of the island and its people.

📌APIA Every Day (21) - The Kam Wah Chung Company Building, situated in the Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site in John Day, Oregon, stands as a testament to the rich history of the Chinese community in eastern Oregon. Originally constructed in the 1860s as a trading post, the building gained significance in 1887 when Chinese entrepreneurs Lung On and Ing Hay purchased it. Over the following six decades, the Kam Wah Chung Company Building served as a thriving commercial, social, and cultural hub for the local Chinese community. The site is now recognized as a National Historic Landmark and boasts one of the most extensive collections of Chinese mercantile and herbal store artifacts in the United States, including over 500 varieties of Chinese medicinal herbs.

This historic building housed diverse functions, evolving into a Chinese medical clinic, general store, community center, and residence. Lung On, a skilled businessman, and Ing Hay, known as "Doc Hay" for his expertise in traditional Chinese herbal medicine, formed a successful partnership amidst the challenges of anti-Chinese sentiments in the late 19th century. The Kam Wah Chung Company Building endured as a symbol of resilience, weathering racism and demographic shifts until its closure in 1948. Today, the site offers a unique glimpse into the past, preserving the intricate daily lives, business ventures, and medical practices of the Chinese immigrants who played a vital role in shaping the history of rural Oregon.

📌APIA Every Day (20) - The Kake Cannery, located on Kupreanof Island in the Alexander Archipelago, played a crucial role in Alaska's Pacific salmon canning industry from 1912 to 1977. The cannery complex, consisting of over a dozen buildings, exemplifies the historical trends, technology, and labor practices of the industry. Initially employing native workers, the cannery later shifted to contracted labor, including Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, Korean, Mexican, and African American workers. The cannery, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1997, fell into disrepair after its closure in 1977, but preservation efforts, including hazardous material cleanup, have been undertaken by the Organized Village of Kake (OVK). The tribe aims to rehabilitate the main cannery building for new uses, envisioning it as a hub for arts, culture, and nature-based tourism while preserving its historical significance.

The site was designated as an 11 Most Endangered Historic Place by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2013, the OVK plans to restore the cannery, construct a multi-purpose dock, and make system updates through the last decade. This continued restoration project aims to stimulate the local economy by repurposing the cannery into a cultural center, historical museum, restaurant, Tribal Transportation Office, and marketplace for native goods. The project leaders foresee the cannery serving as a gateway to Kake, attracting tourists and providing opportunities for the community's economic development. The restoration effort faces financial challenges, with an estimated $500,000 required for initial stabilization and millions needed for complete restoration, but with the help of $1.8 million from the U.S. Department of Commerce in 2018, OVK remains determined to preserve this significant artifact of Alaska's salmon canning history.

📌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.

📌APIA Every Day (18) - Buford Highway is a culturally diverse corridor northeast of Atlanta, spanning Fulton, DeKalb, and Gwinnett counties in Georgia. Renowned for its multicultural atmosphere, the area boasts over 1,000 immigrant-owned businesses representing a wide spectrum of ethnicities, including Korean, Mexican, Chinese, Vietnamese, Indian, Bangladeshi, Central American, Somali, and Ethiopian. Despite facing an identity crisis and being labeled with the outdated moniker "Chambodia," Buford Highway challenges traditional urban development narratives. Unlike downtown Atlanta's upscale focus, this corridor has evolved into a thriving hub where various immigrant communities coexist, fostering a unique and vibrant suburban culture that reflects the true essence of the New South.

During the late 20th century, as Atlanta prepared for the 1996 Summer Olympics, Buford Highway experienced a transformative period. While the city aimed to project a cosmopolitan image, the corridor's significant cultural changes were overshadowed. Immigrant-owned businesses, attracted by affordable leases and consistent traffic, flourished, contributing to Buford Highway's emergence as an international corridor.

On March 16, 2021, a series of spa shootings targeted three massage parlors within a ten minute drive of Buford Highway, resulting in the tragic deaths of eight people, including six Asian women, and sparking widespread discussions about anti-Asian, misogynist violence.

Reflecting on relatively contemporary places like Buford Highway, where the architectural forms are akin to the strip malls we often dismiss in traditional historic preservation ethic, begs questions like: If and how do we acknowledge the historic contributions and persisting presence of Asians in the American South? If and how do we preserve mundane places like retail and service centers when horrific or honorific events have occurred there?

📌APIA Every Day (17) - The Granada Relocation Center, also known as Camp Amache, was one of ten incarceration camps established in the United States during World War II to confine Japanese Americans and individuals of Japanese descent. Located near the town of Granada in Colorado, Camp Amache housed over 7,300 incarcerated individuals at its peak, with more than 10,000 people passing through its gates during the war. The site, covering approximately 10,500 acres, included barracks, mess halls, administrative facilities, and extensive agricultural lands. The majority of the internees, primarily hailing from California's central valleys, were seasoned farm workers, contributing to the camp's transformation into a productive agricultural center. Despite the challenging living conditions, internees formed tight-knit communities and demonstrated resilience, creating gardens, constructing koi ponds, and attempting to make their cramped living quarters as homelike as possible.

In March 2022, the Amache National Historic Site Act was signed into law, designating Amache as a new park in the National Park System. This recognition reflects the historical significance of Camp Amache and its role in the incarceration of Japanese Americans during a dark chapter in American history. The site, now maintained by the Friends of Amache in collaboration with various organizations, features a cemetery, a monument, building foundations, and other remnants of the camp, serving as a poignant reminder of the wartime experiences of Japanese American families who endured unjust incarceration. The establishment of the National Historic Site underscores the commitment to preserving the complex history of Camp Amache and honoring the resilience and contributions of those who faced adversity during this tumultuous period.

📌APIA Every Day (16) - The Butte-Anaconda Historic District in Montana bears the historical imprint of Chinese and Asian American settlement, adding a unique layer to its narrative of mining, industry, and labor struggles. Chinese immigrants first arrived in the Butte area in 1868, initially attracted by placer gold mining. Forced out of mining activities, they established a vibrant Chinatown on the outskirts of Butte, marked by businesses like herb shops, noodle parlors, and laundries. Despite facing economic challenges and anti-Chinese sentiments, including boycotts initiated by labor unions in the late 19th century, the Chinese community persevered. The district's preserved buildings, such as the Mai Wah Noodle Parlor and Wah Chung Tai, now serve as a museum, offering insight into the rich history and contributions of Chinese and Asian Americans in shaping Montana's cultural and economic landscape.

In the face of economic depressions and labor tensions, the Chinese community in Butte's Chinatown played a vital role in supporting the local community. The Chinese Boycott Case of 1896, a landmark legal victory against labor unions, marked a turning point, ensuring the protection of Chinese and Japanese businesses from further organized actions. The legacy of Chinese and Asian American settlement in the Butte-Anaconda Historic District is not only preserved in the physical remnants of Chinatown but also in the broader narrative of a diverse and resilient community that contributed significantly to the development of the region during a pivotal period in American history.

📌APIA Every Day (15) - Nan Madol, situated on the island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia, stands as a testament to the ancient Saudeleur dynasty's political and religious prominence. Constructed between 1200 and 1700, Nan Madol served various roles, including being a religious center, royal enclave, fortress, marketplace, and the governmental hub for Pohnpei. The Saudeleur dynasty, originally outsiders who became rulers of Pohnpei, initiated the construction of Nan Madol around 1200. The city, built on a coral reef in a lagoon, was a complex of over 130 buildings on 12 artificial islands, connected by a network of canals. At its zenith, Nan Madol housed around a thousand people, with a highly stratified social structure that isolated the nobility from the commoners. The city's significance gradually declined after the defeat of the Saudeleur in 1628 by the warrior hero Isokelekel, leading to its abandonment in the 18th century.

Nan Madol, recognized as the only existing ancient city built on a coral reef, showcases remarkable engineering and architectural feats. The massive basalt stones, some weighing up to 100,000 pounds, were meticulously arranged in crisscross patterns, forming the walls of the structures. The city's name translates to "within the intervals," referring to the intricate web of tidal canals that crisscross the city. Nan Madol's unique construction gives it the moniker "Venice of the Pacific." Despite centuries of abandonment, the city remains stable, allowing modern-day visitors to tour the site by boat. Designated as the Nan Madol National Historic Landmark, the area encompasses the city, surrounding islets, and adjacent regions. Although privately owned by Pohnpeians, the ownership status of Nan Madol's islets remains unclear. Today, the site is a listed on the National Register of Historic Places (1975), designated National Historic Landmark District (1985), and UNESCO World Heritage Site (2016).

📌APIA Every Day (14) - The Asia Pacific Thematic Historic District (APTHD) in San Diego represents the historical Chinatown of the city, encompassing eight blocks adjacent to the Gaslamp Quarter Historic District. Bounded by Market Street, 2nd Ave., 6th Ave., and J St., this district was officially designated as a historic area by the City of San Diego in 1987. The APTHD traces its roots back to the 1860s when it was settled by abalone fishermen, evolving into a thriving Chinatown that accommodated not only the Chinese community but also Japanese and Filipino communities. Over time, factors such as World War II service and the redevelopment of the Gaslamp Quarter in the 1980s led to the dispersion of the Chinese population and the closure of numerous Chinese-owned businesses. The APTHD now preserves the historical significance of the Asian-Pacific community, featuring 22 contributing structures dating from 1883 to 1930, including the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum and the San Diego Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association.

The district showcases the multicultural history of the Asian-Pacific community in San Diego, with the Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino immigrants living and working in the area from the 1860s to the 1950s. The APTHD is not only a physical space but also a cultural testament to the contributions of these communities. The district's historical periods highlight the development and concentration of Asian/Pacific buildings and businesses, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability. Today, the Asian Pacific Thematic Historic District serves as a reminder of San Diego's diverse heritage and plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing the rich history of the Asian-Pacific communities in the region.

📌APIA Every Day (13) - India Square, also known as "Little India," is a vibrant commercial and restaurant district located in the Journal Square and Marion Section neighborhoods of Jersey City, New Jersey. Recognized for having the highest concentration of Indian Americans in the Western Hemisphere, the area is a rapidly expanding ethnic enclave within the New York Metropolitan Area. Centered on Newark Avenue, between Tonnele Avenue and JFK Boulevard, this neighborhood is a bustling hub lined with grocery stores, electronics vendors, video stores, clothing shops, and a plethora of restaurants. Boasting a rich cultural atmosphere, India Square hosts major events such as the largest outdoor Navratri festivities in New Jersey and is home to several Hindu temples. The area has experienced substantial demographic growth, with the 2010 census reporting over 27,000 Asian Indians, constituting 10.9% of Jersey City's population.

Little India, primarily situated between Tonnele Avenue and John F. Kennedy Boulevard, extends eastward along Newark Avenue into Jersey City's Little Manila and the Five Corners neighborhood. This expansion reflects the continuous influx of immigrants and the area's dynamic cultural evolution. As a testament to the city's diversity, Jersey City regularly ranks among the most diverse cities in the U.S., showcasing a harmonious coexistence of various ethnic groups. The India Square subsection of Journal Square remains a significant symbol of this diversity, attracting visitors with its lively atmosphere, diverse businesses, and the celebration of Indian festivals such as Navratri and Holi.With most of the settlement and development patterns beginning the late 70s and through the 80s, will the field of historic preservation be ready to recognize enclaves like India Square as a historic district with deep contributions to the greater American story?

📌APIA Every Day (12) - The McGregor Memorial Conference Center, situated on the campus of Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, is a National Historic Landmark designed by Japanese American architect Minoru Yamasaki. Constructed in 1958, the center marked a pivotal moment in Yamasaki's career as he transitioned from the International Style to New Formalism. Yamasaki, influenced by his early experiences and education, departed from the strict designs of the International Style, incorporating classical elements and historical inspiration into his work. The McGregor Memorial Conference Center, commissioned by the McGregor Fund, showcases Yamasaki's evolving design philosophy, featuring an elevated platform, sunken reflecting pool, and gardens that contribute to a serene and contemplative atmosphere. With its distinctive architectural features, including Italian travertine, aluminum, tinted glass windows, and a glass-enclosed atrium, the center garnered national attention and served as a catalyst for Yamasaki's subsequent influential projects.

Minoru Yamasaki's career continued to flourish in the late 1950s and early 1960s, with the McGregor Center establishing his reputation and leading to additional commissions from Wayne State University. His design ideals culminated in the iconic World Trade Center in New York City in 1962, where Yamasaki blended high and low rise buildings within an urban oasis. Despite facing health challenges, Yamasaki remained active in architecture until his death in 1986, leaving a lasting legacy. The McGregor Memorial Conference Center stands as a testament to Yamasaki's innovative approach, marking the emergence of New Formalism and influencing Modern Architecture in the latter half of the 20th century.

📌APIA Every Day (11) - The Squak Valley site of the Chinese massacre in 1885 (now Issaquah, WA) unfolded against a backdrop of anti-Chinese sentiment that swept through the American West during the 1880s. In an attempt to reduce labor costs, the Wold brothers, owners of a hop farm in Squak Valley, hired 37 Chinese workers to pick hops at a lower wage. This decision incited hostility from white and Native American hop pickers in the region who perceived the Chinese as a threat to their employment. The tension escalated on the night of September 7, 1885, when a group of five white men and two Native Americans attacked the Chinese camp, firing into the tents of sleeping laborers. Three Chinese men were killed, and three others were seriously wounded. Despite arrests and a trial, all the perpetrators were acquitted, reflecting the prevailing anti-Chinese sentiments of the time.

The Squak Valley incident was part of a broader wave of violence against Chinese workers in the Puget Sound region and beyond. The anti-Chinese agitation, exemplified by the Rock Springs Massacre in Wyoming on September 2, 1885, where 28 Chinese coal workers were killed, exacerbated the hostility towards Chinese immigrants. The massacre underscored the economic tensions and xenophobia prevalent in the region during this period, leading to the expulsion of Chinese communities from various towns. Despite legal proceedings, the perpetrators of the Squak Valley massacre faced little consequence, contributing to a broader climate of discrimination and violence against Chinese immigrants in the late 19th century American West.

No marker or designation recognizes the history at this site, which itself is difficult locate with accuracy. Since 2008, researcher/photographer Tim Greyhavens has helped identify and document these sites as part of the No Place Project.