Dozens of US high schoolers turned DC’s Chinatown into an art studio on Nov 6, getting hands-on with Chinese culture at the "Touch of China in Chinatown" event. The Chinatown Community Cultural Center hosted the night, with support from Hope Chinese School, American Chinese School, and Howard Chinese School.
Students from Leonardtown High School in Maryland—part of the school's Chinese language program—filled the room with laughter as they shaped clay pandas 🐼 under an instructor’s guidance. Afterward, they hopped between stations to try Chinese knot-making, calligraphy, and ink rubbings, snapping selfies in traditional outfits.
Senior Kinsey Albin, who’s studied Chinese for four years, proudly showed off her clay panda and shared how a friend’s recommendation sparked her love for the language. Meanwhile, second-year students Drake Hozier and Evan Dearden can’t wait to visit the Chinese mainland one day to practice what they’ve learned.
Lily Jiang, a veteran Chinese learner with nine years under her belt, said a family trip to the Chinese mainland deepened her cultural connection. “I love the people and traditions,” she smiled, posing in a colorful costume.
Lead Chinese teacher Chen Si, now in her eighth year at Leonardtown, beamed as she watched her students dive into each activity. She believes hands-on events and trips to the Chinese mainland help teens build real understanding and open-mindedness. “They learn to see culture for themselves,” she said.
The “Touch of China in Chinatown” series continues to bridge friendships and inspire the next generation of global citizens 🌏✨.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
