Preserving traditions and amplifying narratives to strengthen communities

This year, as we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, our communities continue to face unprecedented challenges and uncertainties. Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation recognizes this critical moment to reaffirm its long-term partnership and rebuild collectively with the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA).

As the only repository of New York’s Chinese community, MOCA is dedicated to preserving the history, heritage and modern culture of Chinese Americans and educating communities through innovative programming. MOCA stands as a valued community pillar, amidst heightened racial injustices against Chinatowns and Asian Americans, by amplifying awareness of often-overlooked traditions and lineages.

“MOCA holds space for the marginalized to be heard, while celebrating and connecting the dots to the diversity and richness of the American narrative through the lens of the Chinese American experience,” said Nancy Yao Maasbach, MOCA, President.

In early 2020, Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation quickly deployed support for archival restoration and recovery efforts after a 5-alarm fire devastated MOCA’s Collections and Research site. The Museum suffered a loss of over 85,000 items in its collection. Curated for over a decade, this included many irreplaceable artifacts dating back to the 19th century on Chinese migration in the US.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic fire and loss of the archives of the Museum of Chinese in America,” said Alessandra DiGiusto, Head of CSR Americas and Executive Director of Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation. “Deutsche Bank and our employees have been partnering with MOCA for over a decade and we will be doubling down on our commitment this year. It is critical that this important collection and narrative of Chinese migration and its rich history is preserved in any possible way.”

Due to this tragic event and the developing COVID-19 pandemic, MOCA has digitized several items, increased virtual access to the Museum’s resources and developed new educational programming.

Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation is grateful to the volunteers that work alongside educators and staff each year to advance the Museum’s mission. During Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, the Foundation encourages you and your family to explore MOCA’s vast collection of digital archives, video interviews, social media series and more.