Documentary film “History of Cleveland’s Chinatown” Premiere

OCA Greater Cleveland (OCAGC) hosted a VIP premiere of the documentary film “History of Cleveland’s Chinatown – An Oral History of Chinese Americans in Cleveland” on June 25, 2022. OCAGC received a proclamation from the Office of Mayor Justin Bibb on June 4 recognizing the special public screening “History of Cleveland’s Chinatown” presented by OCA Greater Cleveland.

The private premiere attended by about 90 advocates, partners, and community members was held at the Old Stone Church due to the historical significance the church played in assisting and serving early Chinese-Americans in Cleveland. The film resonated with the audience as an intriguing and educational look into Cleveland’s past, a rich account of Chinese immigration and culture, a documentation of the transformation of Chinatown to the expanding present-day AsiaTown Cleveland, and the sharing of personal stories, many for the first time.

The film is a passion project of the filmmakers to tell the 150-year journey of Chinese-Americans, their struggles, their triumphs, and the American dream. Many felt the emotional impact of the film as it tells a personal, close-to-home journey. It tells the story of “us.”

The documentary is presented by OCA Greater Cleveland with funding provided by the Cleveland Foundation’s Minority Arts & Education Fund, Margaret W. Wong & Associates, and individual donors. OCAGC V.P. of Communications Johnny K. Wu is the director, producer, and director of photography. OCAGC President Lisa Wong is the producer, researcher, and interviewer. Media design and imaging are handled with Nick Muhlbach as editor and camera operator. Chris Tanaka, Cleveland 19 News anchor, serves as the host of the documentary. Wayne Wong, OCAGC V.P. of Administration, was the MC for the premiere and served as moderator for the Q&A session.