Asian American Cultural Center at Illinois

“Looking back into our history, as a community and for each person individually, it is so important to know where we came from, what happened, and how we got here… It is especially important to tell stories that have not been widely shared, particularly those of groups that are not part of the dominant narrative.”

Sara Bennett, Champaign County Historical Archives, The Urbana Free Library.

💙The Asian American Cultural Center thanks WCIA 3 News for this meaningful coverage and the Champaign County Historical Archives at the Urbana Free Library for being an incredible partner in this work.

🔶 This project was inspired by the leadership and vision behind the African American Heritage Trail, led by Dr Kevin Tan, Associate Dean, University of Illinois School of Social Work and community partners.
🔶 Since fall 2025, AACC and our partners have been researching, interviewing community members, and documenting stories that help preserve and honor Asian and Asian American histories in Champaign-Urbana.

Asian American history is American history. ❤️🤍💙

New Asian American Heritage Trail showcasing cultural sites in Champaign-Urbana CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — A new cultural experience is launching in Central Illinois. The Asian American Heritage Trail in Champaign and Urbana will highlight places that showcase Asian…

🧡 Thank you to The News-Gazette for this thoughtful coverage of the inaugural Champaign-Urbana Asian American Heritage Trail.

The weekend edition of The News-Gazette (June 20–21, 2026), written by Jana Wiersema, highlights the inspiration behind this community initiative and shares stories from the trail, including a special feature on the beloved Far East Grocery.

🔶 This project was inspired by the leadership and vision behind the African American Heritage Trail, Associate Dean, School of Social Work led by Dr. Kevin Tan, Associate Dean, University of Illinois School of Social Work and community partners.
🔶 Since fall 2025, the Asian American Cultural Center (AACC) and our partners have been researching, interviewing community members, and documenting stories that help preserve and honor Asian and Asian American histories in Champaign-Urbana.

🎙️ Listen to the News-Gazette radio interview to learn more about the vision and collaborative efforts behind this project.
🎧 The News-Gazette radio interview:
go.illinois.edu/2026AAHTWDWS
📖 The News-Gazette article: go.illinois.edu/2026AAHT

UI and partners launch C-U Asian American Heritage Trail An inaugural tour was held on May 1, with participants visiting the Hindu Temple of Central Illinois, The Refugee Center and Far East Grocery.

As a national education advocacy organization, the Fred T. Korematsu Institute believes the fight for justice, racial equity, and human rights begins with education. AANHPI history is American history. And as of March 31, 2026, "13 states have statutes that require AAPI studies curriculum, 7 states are considering bills that would require AAPI studies curriculum, and 17 states have academic standards that require AAPI studies" on the books. Curious about the standards in your state? Check out the interactive map and filter among academic standards, bills that have passed into law, and pending bills in your state: https://tinyurl.com/yvwf9hzk

Making Bibimguksu with Graduate Students! 🍜

Join fellow graduate students for an interactive bibimguksu-making workshop at the AACC! In this hands-on session, you’ll learn about the cultural significance of bibimguksu, a refreshing Korean spicy mixed noodle dish, while building your own customizable bowl. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or already a fan, this is a great opportunity to cook, learn, and connect with other graduate students!
📅 Date: June 18, 2026
🕠 Time: 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 Location: AACC Lounge and Kitchen (1210 W. Nevada Street)

http://go.illinois.edu/2026GSNBibimguksu

Curious about the Inaugural Champaign-Urbana Asian American Heritage Trail?

Check out the News-Gazette interview for the inside scoop on this exciting new community project celebrating Asian American history and culture in Champaign-Urbana.

🎧 Listen here:
https://post.futurimedia.com/wdwsam/playlist/58/listen-6611.html

As heard on N-G Radio | People's Choice champs, baseball big-wigs, cellphones in schools and more Twenty things we've learned on recent episodes of the GTPS Insurance-powered News-Gazette Radio, from a Centennial teacher worth celebrating to Arthur schools' everything-must-go auction, Bob Costas' favorite ballparks — and