OUTDOOR EQUITY
Access and opportunity to outdoor spaces and activities for all
Cloud Gate travels from Taiwan to perform in Denver
Taiwan Cultural Experience
Experience the culture, food and, journeys
Guests Speaker: DG Bill Huang of TECO
Friday, November 15
Happy Living Adult Daycare 14015 E Evans Ave. Aurora, CO 80014
6:00-8:00pm Register now: www.acccolorado.org
Sponsored by
AFFORDABLE HOUSING –WE WELCOME YOU!
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• Call, email, visit or download an application. Submit by email, in person, or fax. Drop off box in lobby open 24/7: 22 S. Adams St., Denver CO 80209 Info@KavodSeniorLife.org or www.KavodSeniorLife.org
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• Apartments are waitlisted. Contact Leasing department for current wait time.
Kavod Senior Life is a non-profit, non-sectarian organization providing housing and services to older adults and people with disabilities that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability or familial status.
ASIAN AVENUE - PRESIDENT’S NOTE
Annie Guo VanDan, President Asian Avenue magazine
Connect with us! hello@asianavemag.com @asianavemag
We are working on the Best of 2025 picks for our December 2025 edition. We need your help to vote on the best businesses and events from the year. Cast your vote at asianavemag. com or via social @asianavemag.
We are beyond thrilled to share that Asian Avenue Magazine is among the 205 local newsrooms nationwide to receive funding from Press Forward’s first Open Call on Closing Local Coverage Gaps. Thank you to the funders and reviewers, who awarded us. This funding will help us further our work to cover Colorado’s AANHPI communities and to provide our readers with culturally-relevant news and information. With the funds, we plan to bring on an additional staff member and increase our coverage of local AANHPI businesses.
We share about the importance of outdoor equity for people of all backgrounds and abilities to experience the outdoors. Thanks to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network has been offering programs to get AANHPI youth and families outdoors. We feature the inspiring story of Tom Pham, who was able to summit Mt. Elbert with his all-terrain wheelchair and the help of volunteers from the Lockwood Foundation. Adaptive equipment and support is also important to making the outdoors more diverse and equitable for all.
As the year comes to an end, we want to say thank you to all of our readers and supporters. Keeping the magazine afloat these past 18 years has been challenging, especially through the pandemic and the continual increase in printing costs. Through it all, we have endured thanks to the support of our readers and friends. Thank you for continuing to read us, connect us, and find value in us. I am grateful for every person that has opened up to us and allowed us to share their story in Asian Avenue. We have archived so many beautiful stories our community will cherish, as we get close to 20 years of service (in 2026).
ASIAN AVENUE TEAM
Publisher &
YUTAI GUO
GUO VANDAN Editorial Director MARY JENEVERRE SCHULTZ Graphic Designer LIJIN ZHAO
Videographer JADYN NGUYEN
Web Designer JASON ZHANG Staff
JESSALYN LANGEVIN
on the cover
Adaptive athlete Tom Pham conquers Mt. Elbert, Colorado’s highest peak, on his all-terrain wheelchair with the support of Lockwood Foundation.
Cover photo provided by Tom Pham
Asian Avenue magazine (ISSN 1932-1449) reserves all copyrights to this issue. No parts of this edition can be reproduced in any manner without written permission. The views expressed in articles are the authors’ and not necessarily those of Asian Avenue magazine
Looking to promote your business? Asian Avenue magazine offers businesses a costeffective way to reach consumers in the Denver/Boulder metro areas and beyond. For more information, call 303.937.6888 or e-mail us at hello@asianavemag.com for our media kit and ad rates. Send story ideas to hello@asianavemag.com.
Asian Avenue magazine is in association with the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.
8 UPCOMING EVENTS
9 INSIDE STORY: AANHPI students in Gunnison find connection through student organization, APIC
10 PERFORMING ARTS: Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan presents 13 Tongues at Newman Center
12 COVER: Outdoor equity programs help AANHPI youth and families, and those with adaptive needs to enjoy outdoor activities and spaces
22 ON SCENE: Local Asian chefs discuss what authenticity means to them 4
16 FEATURE: Convivir empowers students from immigrant and refugee families
18 RESTAURANT PEEK: The new Dillon’s Dumplings serves up steaming dim sum treats in Aurora
19 STUDENT COLUMN: Kai Vong recounts his learnings from the AAJA Convention
20 ON SCENE: CAPU celebrates the opening of Chinatown exhibit and installation of bollards
Asian Vibes in Denver Events
Asian Community Climb
Wednesday, Nov. 13 | 6:30 to 8:30pm Denver Bouldering Club Central 2485 W 2nd Ave #18, Denver
Food Explorers Feast
Sunday, Nov. 17 | 12pm to 2pm
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ 1998 18th St, Denver
Movie Day: WICKED
Saturday, Nov. 23 | Begins at 1pm
Harkins Theatres Northfield 18 8300 E Northfield Blvd, Denver
Movie Day: Moana 2
Tuesday, Dec. 3 | Begins at 7pm
Alamo Drafthouse Sloans Lake 4255 W Colfax Ave, Denver
These events are created for AAPI identifying attendees, we ask that our allies respect this space.
Learn more and RSVP for the events at: instagram.com/asianvibesindenver
Nikkei Treasures
Saturday, Nov. 30 | 10am to 2pm
Events
Sakura Square, 19th and Larimer, Denver 2nd level across from elevator Free and open to the public sakurafoundation.org/events
Stop by the Japanese community thrift store to check out new and gently used items, including tableware (tea sets, plates, bowls, trays), kimono, yukata, obi, scrolls, paintings and other Japanese related items. These Japanese treasures need a new home! Proceeds from the store benefit the Tri-State/Denver Buddhist Temple and the Sakura Foundation.
FACC Holiday Market
Saturday, Dec. 7 | 9am to 2pm
Join the Filipino-American Community of Colorado for their holiday market. Enjoy FACC’s famous bungus, garlic fried rice, and egg breakfast, plus special desserts!
FACC Holiday Party
Saturday, Dec. 14 | 6pm to 10pm
The Filipino-American Community of Colorado’s annual holiday party will have music, food, and lots of fun! Bring a dish to share to celebrate the holiday season with games and fellowship.
Events will be held at: FACC | 900 Harlan St., Edgewater Free and open to the public Learn more at colorado-filipinos.org
Networking & Lunch
AANHPI students are invited to network and connect with AANHPI journalists and media professionals over lunch at the new Social Fabric Asian American Community Center.
All attendees will have the opportunity to get a tour of the new building (opening March 2025).
CELEBRATING DIVERSITY
Western Colorado University’s Asian Pacific Islander Club
With just a combined 4% representation of Asian and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander (AANHPI) students at Western Colorado University (Data USA), the Asian Pacific Islander Club (APIC) has become an essential space for community, connection, and cultural celebration.
In the small mountain town of Gunnison, Colorado, where AANHPI and other minority voices are often underrepresented, APIC provides a place for students to share their heritage, forge friendships, and promote cultural understanding across campus.
APIC’s mission captures its desired impact: “APIC promotes awareness surrounding Asian and Pacific Islander culture and works to educate ourselves, our peers, and the wider community to obtain unity through diversity and create a warm and welcoming environment for all people.”
Club president Kai Vong emphasizes, “At APIC, we’re all about celebrating culture and learning from each other. We welcome everyone, no matter their background, and focus on sharing the diversity within Asian and Pacific Islander cultures. Through our meetings and events, we aim to bring unique cultural experiences that enrich our campus and local community.”
A key strength of APIC lies in its members and executive board, who come from a variety of cultural backgrounds. Lorena Ayala, the club’s vice president, shares, “APIC is more than just a club; I’ve made some of my closest friends
and connections here and have experienced so many new and different cultures throughout my time at Western.”
Ayala’s early exposure to Asian culture through Mandarin immersion instilled in her a lifelong love of diverse traditions. As a first-generation student in a predominantly white university, she believes the club is “crucial for promoting different perspectives and ways of living.” APIC has become a place where she both shares her own cultural heritage and learns to appreciate the unique backgrounds of others. Brenden Jones, APIC’s treasurer, echoes this sentiment, explaining that he joined the club for “the opportunity to make friends with people from different cultures, which is especially valuable in a place that otherwise lacks diversity.” Serving as treasurer, Jones also found a practical outlet for applying his finance and accounting skills while supporting APIC’s mission.
Signature Events and Campus Impact
APIC hosts events that bring students, staff, and the larger Gunnison community together in celebration and learning. Some of the most popular events include:
Annual Bistro Hour: Each year, APIC hosts Bistro Hour, collaborating with a local AANHPI business to provide catered food on campus. This event promotes awareness of APIC while supporting and showcasing local AANHPI-owned businesses.
Lunar New Year Celebration: A cam-
pus favorite, APIC’s Lunar New Year celebration has grown in recent years. In addition to lantern painting at the University Center and distributing traditional red envelopes with zodiac predictions, last year APIC brought a lion dance troupe to perform at a basketball halftime show—the first performance of its kind in Gunnison—offering a vibrant experience of Asian cultural heritage.
Lū’au: As APIC’s headlining event, the Lū’au draws a large audience every year. Featuring Hawaiian food prepared by students and authentic Polynesian performers, the Lū’au is a lively, soldout celebration of Polynesian culture that has become a must-see event on campus.
The club strives to make each Lū’au memorable, bringing a taste of island culture to Western and fostering a sense of aloha within the community.
A Lasting Impact and a Welcoming Community
APIC exemplifies the power of community and cultural pride. As the club continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to building a supportive space and hosting meaningful cultural events on campus.
For anyone at Western—or beyond— who wants to learn more about the AANHPI community, APIC offers an open and welcoming environment. Through their commitment and enthusiasm, the members of APIC demonstrate the strength and limitless possibilities found in diversity.
Choreographer: Cheng Tsung-lung
by: Liu Chen-hsiang
Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan to perform at Denver’s Newman Center
Acclaimed as “Asia’s leading contemporary dance theater” (The Times), Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan transforms ancient traditions such as meditation and internal martial arts into a thrilling and modern celebration of motion. Their production, 13 TONGUES, takes the audience on a visually arresting exploration of cultural memory.
Cloud Gate is the name of the oldest known dance in China. In 1973, choreographer Lin Hwai-min adopted this classical name and founded the first contemporary dance company in the greater Chinese-speaking community. In 2020, Cheng Tsung-lung succeeded Lin as the company’s Artistic Director. In 2023, Cloud Gate celebrated its 50th anniversary.
Cloud Gate has set out to engage with local history, culture, and subject matter and draws on classical, folk, and modern dance from both Western and Asian traditions. Its dancers receive training in meditation; Qi Gong, an ancient breathing exercise; internal martial arts; modern dance; and ballet. Under the leadership of Cheng, the
training has expanded to more dancing styles, such as street dance. The company transforms ancient aesthetics into a thrilling and modern celebration of motion.
Cloud Gate has toured worldwide with frequent engagements at the Next Wave Festival in New York, the Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London, and the Moscow Chekhov International Theatre Festival in Russia.
The international press acclaims the company as “One of the best dance companies in the world” (FAZ). Cloud Gate was honored as the “Outstanding Company” for the 2018 National Dance Awards (UK).
About 13 TONGUES: As a child in the 1980’s, Cloud Gate Artistic Director Cheng Tsung-lung would contribute to the family business by helping his father sell slippers on the streets of Bangka/Wanhua, the oldest district of Taipei. Bangka/Wanhua was known for its vibrantly diverse and bustling street scene that embraced religious and secular life, rich and poor, work and play, legal and illegal activities. The young
Cheng was transfixed by his mother’s accounts of the legendary 1960’s street artist and storyteller known as “13 Tongues” who had adopted Bangka/Wanhua for his informal stage.
It was said that “13 Tongues’’ could conjure up all the Bangka/Wanhua characters - high and low born, sacred and profane, men and women - in the most vivid, dramatic, and fluently imaginative narratives. Cheng transforms his childhood memories into dance.
The music accompanying 13 TONGUES ranges from Taiwanese folk songs to Taoist chant to electronica. The stage is awash with projections of brilliant colors, shapes, and images and the dancers gather, interact, separate and re-gather in a thrilling representation of the clamor of street life. As the religious heritage of ancient Bangka/ Wanhua fuses with the secular space it is today so time appears to dissolve. The spirit realm and the human realm also coalesce as the audience is taken on an immersive journey - via imagination and storytelling that recalls the art of “13 Tongues.”
Performed by: Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan
Photo
QA &
Cheng Tsung-lung
Asian Avenue: How did you first begin dancing at the age of 8?
I was very hyperactive as a child, so my mother encouraged me to try an experimental dance class. I was fortunate to be accepted. In the dance class, we learned ballet, Martha Graham technique, Chinese opera martial arts, and improvisational dance. The curriculum was very diverse, and I danced with joy!
How have you combined street life and religion into your art?
I explore together with the dancers. Since we all live in Taiwan, we could recall memorable figures or stories from our own lives on the streets as we grew up.
We tried to express these through body movements or even mimic the postures of the religious statues we had seen, such as waving hands, shaking pelvises, and changing hand gestures.
Together, we began our exploration through these gestures of summoning and imitation.
NEWMAN CENTER PRESENTS
What are some of your childhood memories of street life?
Street life doesn’t easily lend itself to beautiful memories. It was often tense; we had to watch out for the police handing out fines, avoid selling slippers in the wrong places, and there were often chases and disputes on the streets. My childhood memories were like adult movies—realistic, but also surreal.
What was it like to become the Artistic Director of Cloud Gate during the COVID-19 pandemic?
The whole company had to make a lot of assumptions and develop many different contingency plans to adapt to any situation. As the pandemic eased, Cloud Gate resumed international tours in 2022, international borders reopened, and the global stage began to turn again.
What do you hope the audience takes away from 13 Tongues?
I have no expectations. Everyone can interpret it in their own way.
NOVEMBER 23 & 24
“Asia’s leading contemporary dance theater.”
The Times
Artistic Director of Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan
Photo by LEE Chia-yeh
Photo by: Liu Chen-hsiang
Photo by: Lee Chia-yeh
Outdoor Equity: Diversifying the Outdoors
Increasing access to the outdoors for youth and families from communities that are traditionally underrepresented in outdoor recreation and conservation
Born to Taiwanese parents, Annie Kao grew up in Colorado in the ‘70s and ‘80s, where she was exposed to outdoor mountain activities from a very young age but never thought of it as a serious career path.
“Even in the late ‘90s when I worked as a ski instructor and at a ski shop in Summit County, I thought outdoor industry jobs were just a temporary detour,” said Annie Kao, who is now Vice President, Social Responsibility of Alterra Mountain Company, which owns the Ikon Pass and a portfolio of ski areas across North America.
In 2010, she re-joined the ski industry in a corporate role and has worn several hats in the outdoor industry since then.
Kao notes that being a rare, middle-aged, Rocky Mountain Asian American woman professional in the ski industry is both rewarding and challenging.
“Throughout my outdoor industry career, I have been part of a community of wonderful people who are passionate about the mountains, and at the same time, I am still often the sole Asian woman in corporate leadership settings, es-
pecially in the ski industry,” she said.
Diversifying the outdoors and making it more accessible to people from all backgrounds has been a focus of Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
The Outdoor Colorado Equity Grant Board is committed to bringing about transformative change in Colorado. Its Outdoor Equity Grant Program (OEGP) funds and supports diverse organizations that provide outdoor education and recreation experiences to under served youth and families.
Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network (CACEN) an OEGP grantee, provides opportunities for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) youth to participate in outdoor activities.
This year, CACEN has taken AANHPI youth and families camping at Cherry Creek State Park, held tai chi and the park events, and collaborated with the Asian American Youth Athletic Association on an outdoor basketball and soccer summer camp.
“We had a wonderful time camping with other AANHPI families. Families brought ramen, egg rolls, and ube cakes which made it fun for our kids to see that Asian foods can be appreciated and enjoyed in the outdoors, said Vietnamese American father, Danny VanDan.
May 29, 2024
Asian Outdoor Industry Leaders Inaugural Meeting in Denver,
Back row (left to right): Kenji Haroutunian (The Big Gear Show); Kim Miller (SCARPA North America); Kenta Takamori (Hakuba 47); Mitsu Iwasaki (Trust for Public Land); Eric Tung (Fera International); Mike Akira West (686); Dan Kwong (Woodward); Bryce Phillips (evo) Front row (left to right): Jennifer Sim (VF Corporation); Marissa Magno (Cotopaxi); Annie Kao (Alterra Mountain Company); Natalie Ooi (University of Colorado Boulder)
Photo Credit: Matt Jasperson
ANNIE KAO Alterra Mountain Company
CACEN’s Outdoor Equity programs encourage AANHPI youth to get outdoors
“For those of us, who are children of immigrants, we rarely had opportunities to enjoy the outdoors due to the cultural and cost barriers, as well as our parents not having the time or privilege to take us on outdoor adventure,” said VanDan. “The intentional effort to diversify the outdoors is meaningful to many BIPOC families.”
Earlier in Kao’s career, she tried to ignore the isolation and just follow the existing rules of the outdoor industry.
“Later, I learned to speak up and question the rules that were perpetuating homogeneity,” she said.
“Today, my work involves re-writing the rules, proactively advancing a more inclusive environment and fairer access to the snowsports industry for a broader range of people, including our employees who can participate in employee resource groups supporting our BIPOC, disability/adaptive, and other underrepresented communities. The mountains are for everyone.”
Her advice for anyone considering the many different types of careers in the outdoor and snowsports industries, is to give it a try!
“We have taken steps to strengthen the Asian American community in the outdoor industry by convening top Asian outdoor industry business leaders on a regular basis to discuss improved supports,” she said. “Our work is ongoing and we don’t plan to stop.”
During their inaugural meeting in Denver last May, the industry leaders shared ideas on how to better advance AANHPI representation, support, and power in outdoors recreation.
Outdoor Equity Resources
Organizations focused on outdoor recreation and accessibility:
Colorado Parks and Wildlife: cpw.state.co.us
Manages and maintains many state parks and wildlife areas, and offers a variety of programs and resources to make them accessible to people with disabilities.
Pikes Peak Outdoors: pikespeakoutdoors.org
Offers a variety of adaptive recreation programs, as well as resources on accessible trails and activities.
The National Sports Center for the Disabled: nscd.org
Provides opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in a variety of sports and recreational activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and sled hockey.
Organizations dedicated to adaptive recreation:
Outdoor Buddies: outdoorbuddies.org
Provides opportunities for people with mobility impairments to enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking.
Adaptive Adventures: adaptiveadventures.org
Offers a variety of outdoor adventures for individuals with physical disabilities, including rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, and skiing.
The Independence Center: independencecenter.org
Offers a range of programs and resources to help people with disabilities live full and active lives, including adaptive recreation activities.
Craig Hospital: craighospital.org
Provides a variety of outdoor recreation programs for people with spinal cord injuries and other neurological conditions.
Adaptive Sports Center: adaptivesports.org
Based in Crested Butte, Colo., the center offers outdoor adventures for people with disabilities.
Alterra Mountain Company Website: alterramtn.co
Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network Website: cacendenver.org Instagram: @cacendenver
By Mary Jeneverre Schultz @jeneverre
Reaching New Heights: Tom Pham Conquers Colorado’s Highest Peak
Colorado resident Tom Pham, an adaptive athlete, reached the summit of Mount Elbert this past summer—the highest peak in the state.
Pham, who left Vietnam in 1992, was diagnosed with a disease that worsened over time. Because of his fierce determination, he wanted to stay active and found the Action Trackchair, an all-terrain wheelchair, to help him go up and down the hiking trails.
“I am adapting to new lifestyles everyday and the groups I go to tend to have some advice and people that have lived this lifestyle for a long time already that can give me some pointers,” Pham said.
His family and support system resides in Colorado. Pham, who is 36, confessed the difficulties of staying independent. His disease is called adrenomyeloneuropathy, similar to having multiple sclerosis, also known as MS.
Mount Elbert
At 14,439 feet, Mount Elbert stands as the highest peak in the state of Colorado. For dog lovers, it is also the highest point that “leashed” dogs are allowed to summit in the entire United States. This fourteener trek offers incredible views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
Not only is it the highest point in Colorado, it is also considered the second highest summit in the contiguous United States after Mount Whitney, which is slightly taller. Mount Elbert is located in San Isabel National Forest, 12.1 miles southwest of the city of Leadville in Lake County, Colorado.
Founder and executive director of Lockwood Foundation, Jeffrey Lockwood, reached out to Pham to ask if he would like to climb Mount Elbert. Pham couldn’t refuse the enticing invitation and believed it was a “lifetime opportunity” for him.
The Lockwood Foundation creates opportunities for those with limited mobility to access to the trails and mountains in a way only community can.
“My disease is degenerative and gets worse over time. Jeffrey knows that, so he offered to come up with a team to get me to the top of the highest mountain in Colorado, while I have my current health,” said Pham.
Training and Preparation
To prepare physically and mentally, Pham visited the gym and engaged in rock climbing for his physical well-being.
“Mentally, I had to keep thinking to myself on how my future will look like and how I just need to keep pushing everyday to achieve my next goal,” he said. He acknowledges that he
struggles with lack of energy daily.
“The biggest challenge I face during my life really is how will I have the energy to start the day or to get to where I need to go and start my training,” he said. “To overcome this, I live on a schedule and try not to break it. I try to eat, use the restroom, sleep, etc. at the right time so I can have energy for the next day.”
The Climb Experience
Pham credits the success of conquering Mt. Elbert to the support of the volunteers.
“In all the events where groups come together and help others with disabilities, what is most meaningful is always the volunteers,” he said.
“I see the volunteers contributing their time and resources to help out something amazing. Everyone has their own jobs, but make time to help when they can. Getting to know everyone is always fun to me.”
in life as an ‘athlete with mobility issues.’ During his younger years, he was ambivalent to health issues, taking good health for granted.
“I now see how life is with the struggles of unfairness and the realities of being handicapped,” he said. “On the other side, I also now see the type of support out there for people with disabilities.”
Pham hopes to inspire others through his resiliency. He knows how tough it can be for those who find themselves in a debilitating state.
“It was really disheartening, and that depressing mindset stuck with me for years. I believe that I have finally made most of my way out of that dark hole after meeting others who can be empathetic and supportive of my situation,” he said. “For the young people, I will say that there is support out there and they are always there when you need them.”
During the climb, Pham feared that his body would ‘act up’ during the climb. Even though the climb was conducted during the middle of summer, Pham wondered if his body could tolerate the cold during the camp the night before the scheduled hike. But volunteers eased the experience by providing comfortable gear, helping set up his tent, and handing out food.
Impact and Inspiration
The climbing experience has changed Pham’s perspective
Pham continues his outdoor activities such as Paradox Sports for rock climbing, Expand Beyond for water skiing and Denver Divers for scuba diving.
“My future goal is to participate in more physical activities where I do it once or a lot,” he said. He has been inspired by the resilience of others with more severe disabilities.
“I have met people who are 100 percent blind with a fulltime job, and living independently. They give me the inspiration I am always seeking.”
Curious about the Lockwood Foundation? Visit them at thelockwoodfoundation.org.
Photos provided by Tom Pham
Convivir Colorado Empowers Immigrant and Refugee Youth Through Community Partnerships and Experienced Staff
By Annie Guo VanDan
Convivir supports youth impacted by migration as they find power in their migrant experience and use it to enrich themselves and their Colorado communities.
Tri Nguyen was introduced to Convivir Colorado by his neighbor, which led him to his current role as Vietnamese Outreach Coordinator for the organization.
“My goals and objectives include: outreach activities within the Vietnamese community, family advising, and support for refugee, immigrant, and first-generation youth in grades 6 through 12,” he said.
His neighbor, who was also passionate about youth-serving nonprofit organizations, believed in the work of Convivir. The local community organization was founded by an undocumented immigrant, Tania Chairez, to serve youth impacted by migration. Convivir provides
free year-round programming focused on building identity, agency, community and student-led change.
Nguyen said: “Our team is driven by a shared belief that if we create spaces that feature storytelling, artistic expression, and community building, then our students will feel empowered to thrive in their authenticity and will use their leadership skills to build a more just society for all.”
This past summer, Asian Girls Ignite (AGI) co-hosted their first Sisterhood Outdoors event with Convivir Colorado, which took place at Snow Mountain Ranch in Granby, Colorado.
Sisterhood Ourdoors Event with Asian Girls Ignite
Tri Nguyen (front right) and the Convivir Colorado team in Vail, Colo.
side of his family. His dad worked three jobs in order to provide for their family of six, and remains one of his greatest inspirations.
- Jadyn Nguyen, Conviviendo Contractor
The youth participated in community building activities led by AGI’s Youth Leadership Collective, had fun tubing down a huge hill, and worked together to conquer a low-ropes course. On the bus ride back to Denver, they enjoyed various Asian and Mexican snacks, and sang their favorite songs.
According to Joanne Liu, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer of AGI, “Our event partnership with Convivir Colorado was intentionally designed to encourage students to connect and find commonalities with one another. We want all students to feel strong in their identities and in their communities–and this includes solidarity with other BIPOC communities.”
Convivir Colorado and AGI have a ongoing partnership where their staff and youth leadership come together to plan these events.
“We discussed everything from the activities we wanted to how to create an environment where we can get to know one another better. We even discussed what kind of snacks we’d like to share with each other.”
The two organizations are gearing up for their second event in 2025 with the support of a grant from Arc’teryx.
Working with immigrant families hits home for Nguyen, who is a refugee from Vietnam.
“My dad served in the Vietnam War, so due to his status as a veteran, our family was sponsored into the US in 1995. Our love for Colorado and the city of Denver has been the main reason why we still reside in this beautiful state,” said Nguyen.
Growing up, Nguyen did not have many role models out-
Throughout his youth, he and his sisters were not able to access the same types of services provided by Convivir.
“Resources were limited as nonprofit organizations did not have the internet readily available for outreach and awareness efforts,” he reflects.
“Needless to say, my journey as a refugee youth in America was not an easy one. Therefore, I am grateful for the opportunity to make a true difference and impact in my community. More importantly, for youth who’s stories derive from their migration journey.”
While he mostly works with Vietnamese families and youth, Convivir works with Colorado youth of all nationalities, backgrounds and immigration statuses.
Nguyen’s personal experience growing up in the US as a refugee has given him a super power.
“This is a super power that most immigrants have, which is the ability to face adversities and overcome obstacles with grace, pride, and integrity,” said Nguyen.
Convivir offers year-round, free programs such as arts and conversations, mentorship, speakers’ collective, youth leadership council, podcasting, and summer programs. Identity is
Learn more about Convivir Colorado at convivircolorado.org or follow them on Instagram @convivir.colorado
Jadyn Nguyen (left) produces Convivir’s podcast, Conviviendo, and helps to manage the organization’s social media.
Dillon’s Dumpling House wows Aurora with its dumplings and dim sum
This summer, Aurora welcomed its newest dumpling spot with open arms! Dillon’s Dumpling House, going on its fifth month, has been serving a wide selection of dim sum, soup dumplings, and Chinese favorites such as Beef Chow Fun, Stir-Fried Green Beans, and Chinese Broccoli in Oyster Sauce.
After decades of working in Denver’s most well-known dim sum restaurants -- Star Kitchen, Super Star Asian Cuisine, and King’s Land Seafood Restaurant -- owners Vincent and Ming Liu branched off to open their own establishment on the east side of town. Named after their son, Dillon, the couple is proud to work together at the business and at times, with the help of their children.
XLBs (xiao long baos or soup dumplings) have taken off in popularity, thanks to the famous Taiwanese Din
Tai Fung, known for its Shanghai-style soup dumplings. This traditional pork and scallion soup dumpling is making way for a more colorful trend.
An order of Dillon’s Xiao Long Bao, for example, comes with the original, lobster/shrimp, crab, cheese, szechuan, kimchi, curry and garlic wrapped dumplings. The steaming hot basket comes out looking like a rainbow with the help of food coloring. My favorite is the garlic XLB.
The pork dumplings in chili sauce is also a popular dish for those who enjoy a spicy kick. Their dim sum menu includes the usual favorites: pork and shrimp siu mai, shrimp dumplings, BBQ pork buns, and sesame balls.
The remnants of the sushi restaurant that was previously in this space is distinguishable as customers can sit at the long sushi bar. However, Dillon’s
Dumpling House has turned the space into something new and inviting for the Aurora neighborhood. Customers are grateful to have access to dumplings and dim sum close by without having to make the trek to Denver. And the dumplings certainly do not disappoint!
3571 South Tower Road, Unit G Aurora, CO 80013
OPEN HOURS
Wednesday - Monday 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Closed Tuesdays
Tel: 303-862-5728
Photos and article by Annie Guo VanDan
Student Kai Vong learns more about sports news at national journalists convention
The Asian American Journalists Association Convention was held in Austin from August 7-11, 2024.
Attending the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA)’s National Convention in Austin, Texas, this past August was a transformative experience for me as a college student.
Although journalism wasn’t initially on my career path, the convention provided eye-opening experiences and new connections that made a future in journalism feel like a real possibility. It offered a chance to learn directly from seasoned journalists and to connect with others who share similar backgrounds and ambitions.
Most of my journalism experience has been focused on radio. I’ve worked with KWSB 91.1 FM since 2021, primarily as sports director, overseeing sports broadcasts and engaging the campus community.
In 2024, I was promoted to become KWSB’s first Asian American station manager. When I was invited by Annie VanDan, President of Asian Avenue Magazine, to join a group of AANHPI journalists from Colorado at the AAJA convention, I was excited for the opportunity to network with others in the industry.
journalists surveyed indicated that they are White, while 8% are Hispanic, 6% are Black and 3% are Asian.
During the convention, I naturally gravitated toward sports-related panels and had the privilege of attending exclusive AAJA Sports Task Force events. I heard from journalists like Gary Striewski and Kevin Negandhi from ESPN, and had the opportunity to connect with professionals from ESPN, Bleacher Report, MLB Network, and more.
Workshops like “Social Media Strategies” and “Incorporating AI in the Newsroom” equipped me with skills to enhance my work in journalism.
Beyond the skills and perspectives gained, I left the convention with a deep appreciation for the community that AAJA has built. Every interaction was genuinely positive, and it’s clear that everyone is invested in supporting one another.
The encouragement I received emphasized how powerful it is to have a supportive community and highlighted the possibilities it can open up.
In a field where AANHPIs are severely underrepresented, seeing such talented journalists and trailblazers together at the convention was encouraging.
According to a Pew Research study, 76% of all reporting
The experience has left me inspired to contribute to the industry and to help elevate diverse voices in journalism.
Kai Vong is a senior at Western Colorado University, pursuing a dual degree in Computer Science and Politics & Government. He is the station manager at KWSB 91.1 FM.
Landon Hong, Gary Striewski, and Kai Vong attend an AAJA Sports Task Force dinner.
Legendary journalist Connie Chung, who was the first Asian woman to break into the television news industry, receives a standing ovation.
Kai Vong and Annie VanDan take photos at the AAJA Convention in Austin.
History Colorado Center Hosts the Opening Celebration for New Exhibition About the Undertold History of Denver’s Chinatown
On October 10, 2024, History Colorado Center opened Where is Denver’s Chinatown? Stories Remembered, Reclaimed, Reimagined, a new exhibition inviting visitors to uncover the history of Denver’s Chinatown, discover what happened to it, and help imagine what it might become. This exhibition takes visitors into one of the largest Chinatowns in the American West during the late 1800s and early 1900s to share stories from the thriving community that called it home, while also exploring contemporary efforts by Colorado’s Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities’ to preserve and reclaim this history.
Created in collaboration with Colorado Asian Pacific United (CAPU) and the University of Colorado Denver’s College of Architecture and Planning, Where is Denver’s Chinatown? shares this undertold history through historic personal family photographs and objects, artifacts from the museum collection, a portrayal of a typical home, and artistic reimaginings of the neighborhood.
“The story of who we are is told not by us, the perception of our community is created by outside voices. What does it mean when you can control your own narrative? What does it mean when you can tell your own stories? I hope this exhibition provides that answer - just a little bit,” said Joie Ha, executive director of CAPU.
“This unique, community-driven, project being on display at the History Colorado Center shows there is a desire from the community and institutions to tell these forgotten histories. It is a chance to pay homage to stories that are foundational to our state, and I hope it provides a platform to look for more of these forgotten histories so they can be rightfully recognized for their importance.”
Once located in the area known today as Lower Downtown (LoDo), Denver’s Chinatown provided a welcoming space for Chinese people in Colorado, who built a flourishing community. The neighborhood represented the earliest AANHPI community in Denver and provided a space where
Chinese immigrants could celebrate their culture against a backdrop of frequent ignorance, hostility, and violence. The neighborhood persisted through the Anti-Chinese Riot of 1880 but eventually dispersed as a result of widespread anti-Chinese racism and the passage of national laws that restricted immigration and opportunities for Chinese nationals.
“When I moved to Denver in 2012, I was happy to find the diverse AANHPI communities here, but surprised by how hard it was to find the Chinese history of the Mile High City and the lack of a Chinatown,” said Dr. Josie Chang-Order, school programs manager and co-developer of the exhibition.
The undertold nature of this history was echoed by Samantha Martin, Temple Buell associate curator of architecture and co-developer of Where is Denver’s Chinatown?
“So often when people talk about Denver’s Chinatown they discuss the location or the buildings themselves, but what’s lost is the stories of the people who called it home,” Martin
Photos by Act One Photography
said. “In Where is Denver’s Chinatown? we are trying to change that by engaging with the stories and material culture of Chinese Americans and Chinese immigrants who called Colorado home.”
Among the many important stories remembered in Where is Denver’s Chinatown? are the accomplishments of Chin Lin Sou, a first-generation Chinese immigrant who moved to Colorado in the 1870s and became a successful entrepreneur and leader whose legacy lives on in the community today.
“So often in history textbooks we only have a reference to anonymous Chinese railway workers and miners, but in the case of Chin Lin Sou, we have this figure who worked his way up into leadership spaces that were
normally reserved for white men and succeeded in the face of racial disparity and hardship,” Chang-Order said.
Where is Denver’s Chinatown? will also include visual recreations created by students from University of Colorado Denver’s College of Architecture and Planning that depict what the neighborhood might have looked like alongside visions for its potential future as a cultural district dedicated to Colorado AANHPI communities.
“Our team’s efforts stemmed from a research course I led, in which students produced drawings and models to represent their architectural ideas of repurposing existing buildings in the former Chinatown neighborhood,” said Leyuan Li, assistant professor at CU Denver College of Architecture
Reimagining Chinatown Bollards go up in Denver’s Sugar Block alley
by Catharine McCord
On October 26, 2024, CAPU revealed the Reimagining Chinatown Alleyway Bollards Project in Denver’s Sugar Block alley (near the Sugar Building at 1530, 16th St Mall), a site central to Denver’s Historic Chinatown.
This project celebrates the rich legacies of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community in Colorado, with stunning artwork by Jasmine Chu and designs inspired by workshops with Asian Girls Ignite. Each bollard tells a unique story of resilience and heritage.
“The return of the Asian community to Denver is what I’m hoping to symbolize with these bollards,” said Arianthe Inlong, Asian Girls Ignite.
and Planning.
“Through collaboration with History Colorado – and thanks to the valuable support we have received from CU Denver and CU – several of these student-led possibilities will be displayed in the exhibition alongside a model crafted from historical maps, allowing visitors to both appreciate the history of Denver’s Chinatown while envisioning its future.”
Where is Denver’s Chinatown? Stories Remembered, Reclaimed, Reimagined is open to the public at the History Colorado Center in Downtown Denver. The History Colorado Center is located at 1200 N Broadway and is open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Ad-
Photos
Visit Sugar Block alley to see these installations honoring our past, present, and future.
Jasmine Chu
Joie Ha
‘How Asian is Asian Enough?’ asks Denver’s Asian American chefs
On Sunday, Oct. 6, local Asian American chefs explored the question: “How Asian is Asian enough?” During a panel discussion held at Tattered Cover Book Store in Denver, the chefs addressed challenges faced by Asian-owned businesses, including racism and questions about their authenticity.
The event was organized by Ni Nguyen and Anna Nguyen, owners of sắp sửa, after the restaurant was criticized for not offering chopsticks.
“Authenticity to me is your own lived experience. When guests come in to eat, you’re experiencing authenticity through the eyes of the chef,” said Ni Nguyen.
The conversation was notably relatable and inspiring to second-generation Asian Americans in the room, who felt a shared empathy with the pressures of having to prove their Asianness.
Facilitated by Nga Vương-Sando-
va, founder of Refugees + Immigrants United, the panel featured: Ni Nguyen and Anna Nguyen; Tommy Lee of Hop Alley and Uncle; Penelope Wong of Yuan Wonton; Maddie Dunhoff of Taeko-san Takeout; and food writer Chris Marhevka.
“We want to be heard, respected, and valued, not just for our cuisine, but for our individuality,” said Ni Nguyen.
Lee, who grew up in Denver, said that some of the toughest customers are Asian, as they tend to expect more traditional takes on the food. He encouraged diners to be more open-minded and do a bit of research to better understand the restaurant’s offerings beforehand.
Authenticity and tradition can be defined very differently by someone who grew up in Asian versus an second or third generation Asian American, who may have grown up with adaptations
to Asian foods in their own homes. The chefs agreed that their personal experiences influenced their versions of Asian dishes.
Wong noted that the dishes she creates for Yuan Wonton are authentic because she creates them with the flavors she grew up with. Meanwhile, Dunhoff, who is Japanese American, said customers often ask about her background and that there are more respect ways to inquire about this personal information.
The culinary conversations continue on Instagram @chitchats.tv. Watch the first two episodes to better understand the ins and outs of the industry.
Photo Credit: Lisa Truong Nguyen @hippohugger1
Last month, Press Forward Colorado announced that nine local media outlets have been awarded $900,000 in grants as part of the Press Forward national foundation’s first open call for funding.
These nine Colorado newsroomsAlamosa Citizen, Asian Avenue Magazine, Aurora Sentinel Community Media, El Comercio de Colorado, KVNF Mountain Grown Community Radio, Ouray County Plaindealer, San Miguel Basin Forum, Sopris Sun, and World Journal - will each receive $50,000 per year for the next two years to support their work serving their communities, and closing coverage gaps for communities of color, rural communities, and linguistically diverse communities.
The Press Forward grant recipients had to meet the following criteria:
• Have an annual operating budget of less than $1 million.
• Be in operation since at least Sep-
tember 1, 2023.
• Show a commitment to editorial excellence, independence and transparency.
Each of these newsrooms is producing the everyday stories people need to make decisions about their daily livesfrom emergency responses to wildfires, to key community issues like housing affordability, and how Coloradans’ tax money is being spent.
Press Forward, a coalition of 20 donors, formed a national initiative to strengthen communities and democracy by supporting local news and information with an infusion of more than a half-billion dollars over five years.
Press Forward’s goal is to enhance local journalism at an unprecedented level to re-center local news as a force for community cohesion; support new models and solutions that are ready to scale; and close longstanding inequities in journalism coverage and practice.
As the host of the Colorado Chapter of the national movement, Colorado Media Project and Press Forward Colorado fund, catalyze and advocate for a healthier local news and information ecosystem for all Coloradans.
“Press Forward received more than 900 applications and from that group selected 205 recipients for $20 million in funding,” said Sam Moody, Associate Director of the Colorado Media Project.
“The fact that nine Colorado newsrooms were funded is a credit to the innovation, journalistic excellence, and commitment to meeting community needs of Colorado’s local newsrooms, and the six years of investment in collaboration and capacity building among newsrooms that CMP’s funders have supported”.
Asian Avenue Magazine is grateful for this funding that will further our work to provide news and information to and about our AANHPI communities.
Social Fabric Asian American Community Center
Call for vendors and program ideas - Opening March 2025 in Centennial CACEN is offering several ways to plug in to the community space! Please reach out to us at cacendenver@gmail.com
Office Space Business Pop-Ups
Offices (175-205 sq feet) or shared desks available for monthly, weekly, or daily rent; leases includes mailing address, utilities, internet, and other benefits (and flexibility on terms)
AANHPI-owned businesses and artists and invited to pop-up in the community center. This includes coffee and tea at the cafe area, as well as kiosks and shelves selling art and products.
Memberships Programs / Events
Community members are welcome to the community center for free! AND memberships are available at $50 per month that include access to solo pods (for meetings/calls) and the conference room, discounts to local restaurants, and discounted rates for event space rentals.
We welcome your ideas for events at the community center. This could include wellness instruction (tai chi, yoga, dance, etc.), education (language lessons, art workshops, science, etc.) or areas of interest (KPOP, Pokemon, etc.).
AANHPI authors are invited to host book readings/signings in the community library.
