Chinese American Museum

The Chinese American Museum in Washington, DC is a continuing effort to develop the first and only museum in our nation’s capital dedicated to the Chinese American story. We are a new museum established to preserve, exhibit, broadcast, and lead a meaningful, positive dialogue on the Chinese American (CA) experience—its history, culture, and contributions to our country and the world. We are an American history museum. We are a museum for everyone!

For more than 200 years, Chinese in America have made great sacrifices, overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges, and served a critical role in our country’s success. From hardship and perseverance to ingenuity and leadership, the Chinese American experience is a story about American resilience and fortitude.

Today, more than five million Chinese Americans, ranging from recent arrivals to sixth-generation families, represent a full spectrum of professions, industries, arts and culture, government, and military service. Their stories illustrate a rich history of tragedy and triumph as well as the accomplishments and promise of Chinese Americans … from everyday citizens to titans of industry.

The Chinese American dialogue is underrepresented and misunderstood in American society. That fact has contributed to Chinese (and Asian Americans) as being seen as outside of the definition of “American” by some. The need for Chinese cultural awareness, representation, and understanding is both real and urgent.