Save Chinatown advocates demand inclusion in revitalization task force decisions

Residents of Washington, D.C.'s Chinatown are calling for urgent action to address the ongoing displacement of their community, as highlighted during a recent Performance Oversight Hearing held by the Committee on Human Services. The meeting, chaired by Matthew Frumin, featured testimonies from community advocates who expressed deep concerns about the future of Chinatown amid significant development plans.

Shawnee Shi, a lead organizer with the Save Chinatown Solidarity Network, emphasized the need for the voices of long-term residents to be included in discussions about revitalization efforts. She pointed out that the demographic of Chinatown has drastically changed, with the percentage of Chinese American residents plummeting from 80% to just 19% due to ongoing gentrification. Shi urged the city to prioritize the needs of vulnerable residents over temporary cultural events, advocating for more substantial support for small businesses and the creative economy.

The hearing also featured Ted Gong, executive director of the 1882 Foundation, who underscored the importance of preserving Chinese American history and heritage in the face of rapid urban development. He highlighted the foundation's efforts to maintain Chinatown as a culturally significant and commercially viable area, noting the community's rich history and the need for ongoing support from city officials.

Both advocates called for the establishment of official communication channels between the city and community organizations to ensure that residents' concerns are heard and addressed. They stressed that without adequate representation and support, the cultural fabric of Chinatown could be irreparably damaged.

As the city moves forward with plans for significant development, the testimonies from the hearing serve as a critical reminder of the importance of community engagement and the need for policies that protect the rights and livelihoods of long-term residents. The committee's response to these calls for action will be pivotal in shaping the future of Chinatown and ensuring that it remains a vibrant and inclusive community for all its residents.