Scope and Contents This collection mostly contains materials procured by Alex Jay and focus on Chinese American writers and playwrights, artists and illustrators, actors, comic book artists, filmmakers, designers, and architects. There are various periodicals, artwork, books, comic books, recipes, playbills, and other items either by Chinese Americans or about Chinese Americans, all dating between 1914 and 2015. Objects are also searchable via PastPerfect Online System at...

Abstract MOCA has launched the OneWorld COVID-19 Special Collection that seeks to document and share the stories of Chinese Americans and the Chinese diaspora resisting coronavirus-fueled hate with incredible acts of compassion and generosity. This collection will not only feature stories of community efforts but also highlight experiences of individuals and families during these unprecedented times. We welcome you to send us a write-up, photos, videos, audio, emails, texts, and any other materials...

Abstract Arthur Dong begins this interview discussing the nightclub scene for Asian Americans during World War II and how there was a positive association with Chinese Americans and China that many of the US felt in contrast to a negative image of Japanese. He goes on to comment on the number of Japanese and Korean American (all American born) performers that masqueraded as Chinese American and reflects upon defying and performing stereotypes in regard to Chinese American performers and rolls in...

Abstract In this oral history Don Kao discusses his life living in Chinatown along with his involvement in Asian American and gay rights activism organizations. Kao first discusses his family background along with the professions his parents had. He compares the different cities he grew up in along with the schools he went to during his childhood. The interview continues as Kao comments on the racism in the community he grew up in along with meeting other Chinese Americans. His experiences during the...

Abstract In this interview, Guillermo and Norma Wong discuss their unique situation as a Chinese-Peruvian family living in a Chinese-Latino section of the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn; facing anti-Chinese slurs made by Latino residents, for example. They describe the ethnic makeup of their neighborhood, the politics of ethnic identity, racism, and discrimination. The Wongs recall the challenges of making it in America; finding housing, learning English, finding a job, and understanding...

Abstract Roger Brue McHayle’s bold, iconic tags cemented his street reputation as original and fearless in 1990s New York’s blossoming graffiti movement. Brooklyn born and bred, McHayle, upon graduation from The Cooper Union, founded the pioneering, urban clothing line, PNB Nation, with his multicultural street crew. Today, McHayle resides in Portland with his family and is an executive at Nike.McHayle, of mixed Chinese and Jamaican roots, grew up in Brooklyn, New York in a predominantly...

Abstract In this interview, Yan Chen talks about her life in Mainland China where she was born and grew up; the family home, farm, her family, extended family, and many farm animals. Chen recalls how, at age ten, she and her family came to the United States through the help of extended family. She remembers that her parents were hoping to make a lot of money in America without having to work too hard. The interview mainly consists of Chen discussing her relationship to the two areas where she...

Abstract Yun Xing Huang was interviewed by MOCA to talk about his immigration and living experiences in New York City’s Chinatown. As a professional singer, Huang owned a nightclub in Fujian before coming to the US during the prevalent immigration wave in China. He worked as a food delivery person before opening a floral shop on his own, singing songs for wedding parties, and acting in films. He praised the brave spirit of Fujianese people but touched upon the geographical discrimination between...

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Edward Chin used to be the son of Sun Sing Theatre owner, an engineer, and a lawyer. Now, he enjoys his retirement and travels around the world to play golf with his friends. In this interview, Chin discusses his father’s movie business, family history about the paper son, his schooling experience, careers in law firms, ethnic identity, and thoughts about racism.