Members of the Vietnamese American Community in Dorchester, are beneficiaries of modern technologies systems, social and environmental standards. This community has settled in Dorchester, Massachusetts, for over quarter of a century. As they enter into the new millennium, concerns and issues which were ignored by local activists are being voiced through an impartial community leader, and through a newly established community center. Issues such as English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, housing, healthcare, and environmental concerns such as public safety, are taken into account, as part of an social inquiry into the acumen of this community efforts to take control of its future.
Table of Contents
- Background
- Current US Demographics
- The Community Center
Objectives and Key Themes
This text aims to provide a snapshot of the Vietnamese American community in Dorchester, Massachusetts, focusing on its growth, social issues, and the role of the newly established Vietnamese American Community Center. The author explores the community's history, demographics, and the challenges it faces, particularly regarding language barriers, access to services, and the need for cultural integration.
- The history and growth of the Vietnamese American community in Dorchester
- Social issues and challenges faced by the community, including language barriers and access to services
- The role of the Vietnamese American Community Center in addressing these issues
- The importance of education and cultural integration for the community's future
- The impact of the community center on neighborhood safety
Chapter Summaries
- Background: This chapter outlines the origins of the Vietnamese American community in Dorchester, beginning in 1975 when a small group of immigrants settled in the area. The author discusses the factors that led to the community's formation, including job opportunities, affordable housing, and proximity to public transportation. The chapter also highlights the social issues that emerged as the community grew, such as language barriers, lack of support services, and cultural challenges.
- Current US Demographics: This chapter presents statistical data on the growth of the Vietnamese American community in the United States and specifically in Boston. The author uses census data to illustrate the significant increase in the Vietnamese American population in Boston and its impact on the community's demographics in Dorchester. The chapter also examines changes in housing patterns within the community, including the rising trend of renter-occupied units.
- The Community Center: This chapter focuses on the establishment of the Vietnamese American Community Center in Dorchester and the role of its director, Mr. Long Nguyen. The author discusses Mr. Nguyen's background, his experience working with the community, and his vision for the center. The chapter details Mr. Nguyen's short-term goals, including collaborations with local authorities and the establishment of a "Parent Advisory Counsel" to address the educational and cultural needs of the community's children.
Keywords
The text focuses on the Vietnamese American community in Dorchester, Massachusetts, exploring themes of immigration, cultural adaptation, social integration, community development, and the role of community centers in addressing the needs of marginalized groups. Key topics include language barriers, access to services, cultural sensitivity, and the importance of education for the community's future.
- Quote paper
- Solomon Thomas (Author), 2002, The Current Social Perspectives on the Vietnamese-American Community, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/266750
