GCCA - CCBA - YMCA - CPC

Political and Community Organizations in Chinatown

Chinatown, located in the lower portion of Manhattan, has stood as a bastion of Chinese culture for more than 100 years. This cultural enclave, which dates back to the 1870s, saw an incredible amount of growth during the last half of the twentieth century. As is the case with any developed, and still developing community, many forms of assistance must be provided to its residents. In order to improve the community, and continue its progress, organizations are formed. Thus, one of the most integral components of Chinatown's past growth, and one of the key elements to its continued development, is the support provided by its community and political organizations.

Many organizations have played vital roles in supporting Chinatown and its residents. Despite the variety of challenges facing this particular community, these organizations have risen to the monumental task of maintaining and protecting the rights of this unique group of citizens. Among these organizations stand the Chinese American Planning Council, The Greater Chinatown Community Association, the Chinatown YMCA and The Chinatown Consolidated Benevolent Association. Each organization has been invaluable in the advocacy, maintenance, and improvement of life for those who live and work in Chinatown. The importance of these community organizations was highlighted after the attacks of 9/11. In the aftermath, they further increased their efforts to better the quality of residents' employment, while seeking economic aid, and attempting to alleviate the overall devastation that the attacks had inflicted on the community. The upheaval experienced in Chinatown during this time was assuaged by Chinatown's community organizations- but despite their incredible efforts, to this day, many scars remain.

Locations of various community organizations