Lucille Wang, Executive Director of the Chinese American Museum, will discuss the history of the Chinese American Museum in detail, sharing lessons learned in operating a museum, its future focus and how the organization continues to achieve its goals and mission.  A short history of Chinese American history will also be discussed.

After nearly 20 years of community dedication and activism, the Chinese American Museum opened its doors to the public on December 18, 2003.  Initially begun as a discussion between the Chinese Historical Society of Southern California (CHSSC) and El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, a committee was formed to discuss the preservation of the historic Garnier Building in downtown Los Angeles.  In 1987, under the leadership of Charter President Dr. Dan Louie, Jr., local historians, educators, community volunteers, and descendants of Chinese American pioneer families formed the Friends of the Chinese American Museum – a volunteer support group committed to generating community interest and support for the museum, acquiring artifacts, conducting research, and raising funds.  Today, the museum proudly stands as Southern California’s first and only museum dedicated to sharing the history of the Chinese American experience in Los Angeles.

Light refreshments follow the program.  Docents will be available to provide tours of the Historical Museum of Monterey Park.