The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA), located in Chinatown, Manhattan, is a vital cultural institution that celebrates the history, heritage, and contributions of Chinese Americans. Founded in 1980 as a community-based organization, MOCA has since evolved into a national museum dedicated to documenting the Chinese American experience through art, storytelling, and historical exhibitions. MOCA plays an essential role in preserving the immigrant narrative, fostering intercultural dialogue, and addressing issues of identity, belonging, and discrimination.
What Makes Museum of Chinese in America Unique?
- Location: 215 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013
- Mission: To celebrate the Chinese American experience, foster a deeper understanding of migration, assimilation, and identity, and address current social issues.
- Design: The museum’s space was reimagined in 2009 by renowned architect Maya Lin (designer of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.), creating a sleek and intimate environment.
- Community-Centered: MOCA actively works with the local Chinatown community and organizes public programs, workshops, and oral history projects.
Permanent and Rotating Exhibits
With a Single Step: Stories in the Making of America
- The core exhibit at MOCA, showcasing the journey of Chinese immigrants from the 19th century to the present.
- Themes include:
- Early immigration and labor contributions (e.g., building railroads).
- The Chinese Exclusion Act (1882) and its impact on families.
- Chinatown’s development as a cultural and economic hub.
- Features personal stories, photographs, and artifacts from early immigrants and their descendants.
Responses to Racism and Exclusion
- Temporary exhibits address anti-Asian racism and highlight contemporary activism.
- Previous exhibitions have explored the rise of hate crimes during the COVID-19 pandemic and responses from Asian American communities.
Art and Cultural Exhibitions
- MOCA frequently displays contemporary Chinese and Chinese American artists, offering a platform for artists whose works reflect issues of identity, migration, and belonging.
- Past exhibitions have included fashion showcases, film retrospectives, and photography documenting Chinese diaspora communities.
Oral History Projects
- MOCA actively collects and preserves oral histories from Chinese Americans, providing a rich archive of first-hand stories that reflect diverse immigrant experiences.
Museum of Chinese in America Events and Programs
- MOCAFest: An annual celebration of Lunar New Year with family-friendly activities, including performances, crafts, and storytelling.
- MOCA Summer Camps: Programs designed for children to explore Chinese American history through art projects, cooking classes, and field trips.
- Film Screenings and Panels: The museum hosts discussions on Asian American identity, immigration policies, and the impact of anti-Asian racism.
- Oral History Workshops: Learn how to conduct interviews and document personal histories, often in collaboration with community members.
Visiting Museum of Chinese in America – Practical Information
Hours of Operation
- Thursday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed: Monday – Wednesday and major holidays
Admission Fees
- General Admission: $12
- Seniors and Students: $8
- Children under 12: Free
- Free Admission on Thursdays: Pay-as-you-wish entry is available on Thursdays.
How to Get to Museum of Chinese in America
By Subway
- N, Q, R, W, 6 trains to Canal Street
- J, Z trains to Bowery
- B, D trains to Grand Street
By Bus
- M15 or M103 buses serve the area.
Parking
- Limited street parking is available, but the area can be busy. Nearby paid parking garages are also an option.
Nearby Dining Options in Chinatown
- Nom Wah Tea Parlor: A historic dim sum restaurant, serving since 1920.
- Joe’s Shanghai: Famous for soup dumplings.
- Xi’an Famous Foods: Known for their spicy hand-pulled noodles.
- Taiyaki NYC: A great spot for Japanese-style fish-shaped ice cream cones.
Nearby Attractions
- Chinatown’s Historic Streets: Stroll along Mott Street and Doyers Street to explore shops, bakeries, and cultural landmarks.
- Little Italy: Just a short walk away, known for its Italian eateries and gelato shops.
- African Burial Ground National Monument: A site honoring African Americans’ contributions to New York’s history.
- Tenement Museum: Located on the Lower East Side, exploring immigrant life in New York’s past.
Best Time to Visit Museum of Chinese in America
- Weekdays: Mornings are quieter, allowing more time to explore the exhibits.
- Thursdays: Take advantage of free admission.
- Lunar New Year: Visit during MOCAFest for special performances and festive activities.
Tips for Visiting
- Book tickets online to ensure entry, as the museum has limited space.
- Join a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
- Check MOCA’s event calendar to attend workshops, film screenings, or discussions.
- Explore Chinatown before or after your visit—it offers a wealth of cultural and culinary experiences.
- Support the museum by visiting the gift shop, which offers books, art, and souvenirs highlighting Chinese American culture.
Conclusion
The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) offers an immersive look into the Chinese American experience, shedding light on immigration struggles, cultural resilience, and community activism. Through historical exhibitions, oral histories, and contemporary art, the museum serves as an important space for education, dialogue, and celebration. Located in the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood, MOCA offers a meaningful and enriching experience that connects past and present, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in understanding New York’s multicultural history.
