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Oral History Interview with Chun Wai Wong, 1993-05

 Item
Identifier: 1994.007.026

Abstract

In this interview, Chun Wai "Billy" Wong discusses his arrival to America and living in the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn as compared to his birthplace of Hong Kong, China. He cites reasons why he likes living in New York. Wong describes the culture and lifestyle of the working Chinese community; the differences between Mainland Chinese people and Chinese people from Hong Kong, the means in which the Chinese travel back and forth from the neighborhoods, shopping at food stores, and banking. Wong evaluates the economic changes in the two communities; new garment factories in Brooklyn, unionization, and health insurance in the factories in New York. Wong speaks about his job as a public school youth counselor; the characteristics of different groups of Chinese youth and problems with gang activity. He recalls his education as a computer programmer in the City University of New York colleges and work after graduation. He recounts his shift to study dance at Hunter College while working as a youth counselor. Wong talks about Chinese-American family life; including home ownership and celebrating various American holidays within their community. He also sees changes in Sunset Park as it becomes more populated. Interview conducted by Mary Lui.

Dates

  • Creation: 1993-05

Conditions Governing Use

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, belong to the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) and the Brooklyn Historical Society. The indices and audio recordings are hereby made available for research purposes only. For more information, contact Museum of Chinese in America at collections@mocanyc.org or Brooklyn Historical Society at library@brooklynhistory.org.

Extent

1 Cassettes

Language of Materials

English

Repository Details

Part of the Museum of Chinese in America Repository

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