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Keep the Arts in Chinatown Strong!

Dear Friends of Asian Arts Initiative,

Since September, when I stepped in as Interim Director, Asian Arts Initiative has presented our first Block Party with the Rail Park, an exhibition by Pew Fellow Rashid Zakat, opened a cute gift shop (and threw a party to celebrate), kicked off a brand new music series, and staged two of our biggest concerts of the SOUND TYPE Music Festival. We’ve also testified at City Council against the proposed 76ers Arena, hosted work to support Hearts Out for Palestine, and hosted another well-loved Town Hall, on Abolition and Creative Labor.

During a transition when many organizations slow down, AAI has recommitted itself to its work. Staff have heeded the invitation to step into their power at this moment, and it’s all thanks to the community we have built here.

As we face an uncertain future, as City Council votes on the Arena, and as a new old administration takes office, we are reminded that the arts are vehicles of resistance, and that the work of artists is what fuels that resistance. We will continue to be a place where we can lean into hard discussions, center joy, and continue to leverage our building as a home for our communities.

In 2025, through offerings like our Artist/Activist Fellowship and our Youth Arts Education Programs, AAI will stay true to its roots as a place that empowers artists as social activists and leaders, and that builds community power. If you believe in protecting the arts in Philadelphia's Chinatown and the city as a whole, please consider supporting us through a donation.

To help us meet our goal of raising $10,000 to keep our building and programs free for our communities, please visit our website at the button below. Your contribution is tax-deductible, and you will receive a receipt for your records.

May you and your loved ones have a safe, joyful and restful holiday season, and we hope to see you all in the new year!

With Love & Gratitude,

Dave Kyu

Interim Executive Director