Center for Asian American Media

When the city of Philadelphia attempts to build a new baseball stadium over its local Chinatown, the community rallies together to protest and fend off this threat to their neighborhood. As activists reflect upon the history of difficulties they have encountered trying to preserve their cultural space, the filmmakers alternate footage of their political efforts with glimpses of everyday life and festive occasions. Reporting their struggles even as it celebrates day-to-day life, LOOK FORWARD AND CARRY ON THE PAST... gives voice to the conflicted feelings affecting endangered communities everywhere.

“Philadelphia’s Chinatown is a precious resource for many people in the entire Atlantic Coast region. It has a long and rich history and deserves a continuing place in our geography and in our hearts. Watch and learn!”

- Franklin Odo, Asian Pacific American Programs, Smithsonian Institute

College/Institution

K-12/Public Library/Community Group