Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience

The Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience, located in Seattle, Washington, is a unique and important institution that tells the stories of the Asian Pacific American community in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1967, the museum is named after the late Seattle City Council member Wing Luke, who was the first Asian American elected to public office in the Pacific Northwest. It is located at 719 S King St, Seattle, WA 98104.

The museum’s mission is to connect people to the rich history and culture of the Asian Pacific American community through its exhibitions, programs, and collections. The museum’s permanent collection includes over 20,000 artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the stories of the Asian Pacific American experience in the Pacific Northwest. These stories include the history of immigration, the experiences of different ethnic groups, and the contributions that Asian Pacific Americans have made to the region.

One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the “Echoes of a People: The Story of the Chinese in the Pacific Northwest.” This exhibit tells the story of the Chinese immigrants who came to the Pacific Northwest in the 19th century to work on the railroads, in the mines, and on the farms. It also explores the discrimination and racism that they faced, as well as their contributions to the region.

Another important exhibit is the “The Confinement Story: Japanese Americans During World War II.” This exhibit tells the story of the 120,000 Japanese Americans who were forcibly removed from their homes and interned in camps during World War II. It explores the impact of this experience on the Japanese American community and their resilience in the face of adversity.

The museum also has a variety of temporary exhibits that explore different themes and topics related to the Asian Pacific American experience. For example, a recent exhibit “Unsettled: Reflections on the Shifting Grounds of Home” which examines the complexities of what it means to call a place “home” for people from Asian Pacific American communities.

In addition to its exhibitions, the Wing Luke Museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events for all ages. These include tours, lectures, workshops, and cultural performances. The museum also offers a variety of community programs, such as the “AAPI Storytellers” program, which provides a platform for Asian Pacific American individuals to share their personal stories and experiences.

The Wing Luke Museum is an important institution that helps to preserve and share the stories of the Asian Pacific American community in the Pacific Northwest. It is a valuable resource for learning about the history and culture of this diverse and vibrant community. The museum also plays an important role in promoting understanding and tolerance between different cultural groups, and in fostering a sense of community and belonging among the Asian Pacific American community in Seattle.

In conclusion, the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience is a unique and important institution that tells the stories of the Asian Pacific American community in the Pacific Northwest. It is a valuable resource for learning about the history and culture of this diverse and vibrant community. The museum also plays an important role in promoting understanding and tolerance between different cultural groups, and in fostering a sense of community and belonging among the Asian Pacific American community in Seattle. It is a must-see destination for anyone interested in learning more about the Asian Pacific American experience and the history of Seattle.