The vibrant celebration in Chicago’s Chinatown Square Plaza brought together people from all walks of life to honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. The event, organized by the Midwest Asian Health Association, showcased cultural performances that highlighted the rich traditions of the Asian culture.
Visitors like Jenny Kaing, who traveled from Minneapolis to attend the event for the first time, expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn more about their heritage. Kaing mentioned that events like these are crucial in helping individuals connect with their roots and understand their culture better.
Apart from the cultural performances, the event also offered valuable services such as health screenings and resources for the community. Dr. Liu, the Executive Director of MAHA, emphasized the importance of breaking the cultural stigma surrounding mental health treatment and encouraged attendees to take advantage of the free services provided.
Medical students from the University of Illinois-Chicago volunteered their time to assist with screenings and address healthcare disparities within the community. Gloria Chang, a first-year medical student, shared that interacting with individuals and hearing their experiences reinforced her commitment to serving the community.
Overall, the event aimed to bridge the gap between communities and foster a deeper understanding of Asian culture and contributions. Organizers hope that events like these will continue to unite people and promote cultural awareness and appreciation.
