While Metro is funding and constructing this memorial, it is doing so with extensive input from community members. At each milestone of the project, Metro has provided multiple opportunities for the community to weigh in. These include online surveys as well as both virtual and in-person information sessions, including focus groups specifically designed for Chinese American community members.
These engagements have helped to shape the project design. The design team has used community feedback to recognize themes that are important to the finished memorial. These include:
- Safety and durability
- Space for conducting ritual and leaving offerings
- Places for rest and reflection
- Sharing the site’s history and honoring those who were buried there
- Incorporating culturally significant plantings, architectural elements and materials
- Avoiding walking on possible burials
Metro is grateful for the participation and input from many community members and organizations, including:
- Chinese American Citizens Alliance, Portland Lodge
- Lone Fir Cemetery Foundation
- Oregon Consolidated Chinese Benevolent Association
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