Learn More The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) invites you to a special screening of History of NYC’s Chinatown: The Toishanese Migration, a newly released documentary from NYC Media that traces the origins of one of New York City’s most enduring neighborhoods. Through sweeping historical insight and intimate community voices, the film centers the Toishanese immigrants who helped build not only America’s railroads, but the foundations of Chinatown itself. Across decades shaped by exclusion and resilience, early arrivals forged a world of their own through family associations, storefronts, dialects, and traditions. Within a few dense blocks, they created networks of care that sustained generations and preserved cultural memory. Over time, those roots extended beyond Manhattan, shaping new Chinatowns in Sunset Park, Flushing, and Elmhurst, each reflecting new waves of migration and evolving identities. Featuring appearances from MOCA and members of the community, the film offers a glimpse into a living history still unfolding. Following the screening, stay for a conversation with producers Andrew Chow Guidone and Joy Lau, joined by community members featured in the film. Together, they will reflect on the process of documenting Chinatown’s layered histories and the urgency of preserving stories that are too often left untold. About Andrew Chow Guidone Andrew Chow Guidone is an Emmy award-winning television director, producer, filmmaker and editor. A native Brooklynite with a passion for telling human stories, he’s produced sociological and immigrant-themed documentaries, narrative work and episodic programming. These themes can also be found in his work for local television, news magazines, lifestyle programs, commercials, PSAs and video installations. His work has been seen on PBS, BET, VH1, Food Network and NBC and across cultural institutions nationwide. About Joy Lau Joy Lau is a creative producer, architect, illustrator, artist, and educator. An Emmy-nominated filmmaker, her work focuses on collective storytelling, cultural memory, and creative opportunities for bringing together communities to nurture dialogue and understanding. A New Yorker born in Hong Kong with a formative stint in Southern California, Joy’s various experiences of assimilation have shaped her commitment to building bridges across cultures. Her work is grounded in the belief that sharing stories across communities can bring about empathy, deepen connection, and support more just and inclusive futures.
The Museum of Chinese in America is dedicated to preserving, illuminating, and celebrating the rich history and contributions of Chinese in America.
