December 29, 2008
Dear Friend,
Manilatown Center is a place for the young and old to gather, talk stories, reminisce, and laugh at shared memories – a place that inspires all who come through the doors. Since we've open our doors in 2005, we've accomplished the following:
· 18 exhibitions, including a 4-part series on the Filipino Diaspora, a 4-part series on Globalization, and two major exhibitions honoring our manongs – Bill Sorro and Al Robles
· Over 60 workshops, performances, readings, film screenings and panel discussions
· Over 40 gallery tours for visitors and partnered with over 30 organizations
· Reached over 10,000 students, families and seniors
Working with community groups, individual artists, seniors, and youth, we've showcased the creation of original works inspired by Filipino themes, experience, and traditions. These creative works and community programs help to promote our history, heritage and culture. Thank you for your time and financial contributions in making this happen. In this time of economic turmoil and shrinking resources, we look to your continued support in the year ahead. Underway are several exciting projects that will engage our community in learning about our Filipino American legacy:
· Re-envisioning I-Hotel Project: In 2009 we will partner with the San Francisco Art Institute to present a multi-media project to re-envision the I-Hotel as if eviction had not taken place. This intriguing question will spark thought-provoking dialogue and participation amongst students, artists, activists, scholars, former tenants of the I-Hotel, and the Manilatown community. The workshops, exhibition and related events will engage audiences to be participants through an interactive approach to learning and contextualizing information.
· I-Hotel Mural: We are also excited about the large-scale public artwork that will be executed on the face of the International Hotel. Working together with the Chinatown Community Development Center , we have chosen an artist, Johanna Poethig, to create a mural on the front of the Hotel that will pay tribute to the I-Hotel struggle and at the same time celebrate the community's triumph.
· Manilatown Archive Project: Our Dado and Maria Banatao Education Center currently hosts historical and contemporary information about the culture, contributions, and achievements of California 's early Filipino immigrant community. We are in the process of creating a database and website which will include samples of our materials that will be accessible to the general public.
MHF's other programs include affordable housing application assistance, and various activities for seniors, such as movie screenings, karaoke nights, computer labs and rooftop gardening. We present regular exhibitions and auxiliary events, including readings, panel discussions, and performances. We also host presentations for the scores of students that come by the center.
In order to do these meaningful projects that will benefit many sectors of our community, your support is critical at this time. Your tax-deductible gift of $500, $250, $100 or any amount will help MHF commemorate the historical events and traditions of our community and provide a space for creative expression and intergenerational and cross-cultural interaction. We have received a $5000 challenge match from an anonymous donor. Your contribution can be doubled if you send in your money before December 31st.
Please send your tax-deductible donation to the Manilatown Heritage Foundation at 953 Mission Street, Suite 30, San Francisco CA 94013 today. Together, we can!
Sincerely,
Emil A. De Guzman, Board President
Manilatown Heritage Foundation 953 Mission Street Suite 30 San Francisco, CA 94103 phone 415-777-1130 fax 415-974-0349