I Am An American – Live

I Am An American – Live
Stories of Exclusion and Belonging

In celebration of the diversity brought to our country by Americans of Asian ancestry, we at The Immigrant Story invite you to join us on April 15 for “I Am An American Live.” This event is part of the programming by the Oregon Rises Above Hate coalition, with the aim of drawing attention to the historic xenophobia experienced by the Asian American community in Oregon and across the U.S. This history of systemic bias includes policies that have resulted in discrimination, incarceration, erasure and a recent increase in hate crimes.

“I Am An American” will begin with four storytellers sharing their experiences of what it means to belong in America, even while at times being excluded. Tellers from a diversity of backgrounds from across Asia tell stories of how our government policies have affected them as individuals. They go on to relate how these experiences in their own lives inspired them to become agents of change. These powerful stories will inform us about an important aspect of our past as a nation and offer an opportunity for reflection on our collective history.

After a brief intermission, the evening will continue with original pan-Asian music composed and presented by Balamurali Balu (Bala), a well-known composer in the Tamil film industry, combining traditional sounds from India, China and Japan with Western classical orchestral harmonies. We have assembled eminent musicians from the Portland area who have worked collaboratively to create this unique concert. The performance will celebrate the rich cultures brought to the United States by multiple generations of immigrants and refugees.

Join us for an evening of stories and music from Oregonians, about the places they built, the traditions they brought and what it has meant to truly belong in their hometown.

This free event is made possible by a generous contribution by Anne Naito-Campbell. Additional funds for Programming has been provided by Ronald Naito Foundation and by a grant from the Oregon Heritage Commission and Oregon Parks and Recreation.

Sponsors
Anne Naito-Campbell
Ronald Naito Foundation
Oregon Heritage Commission
Oregon Parks and Recreation
Oregon Rises Above Hate

Partners:
Oregon Historical Society
Japanese American Museum of Oregon
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Portland Chinatown Museum
St. Andrew Lutheran Church