OCA-NY is partnering with StoryCorps and Thai Community USA to uplift the stories and voices of the Thai community in the first community oral history project for Little Thailand in Queens, New York. Little Thailand Way (on Woodside Ave between 76th to 79th streets) and by extension, Little Thailand, encompasses the Wat Buddha Thai Thavorn Vanaram, Thai restaurants and businesses, community leaders, and other members of the greater Thai community in New York.
Featured OCA-NY Interviews
P. Thawin Pukhao and Chinda Tanner
Elmhurst Buddhist temple volunteer Chinda Tanner (63) and Monk P. Thawin Pukhao (53) discuss their personal histories and the history of the temple. They also discuss how they each contribute to their temple and what they hope for the Thai community in Queens.
Juttana Rimreartwate and Steven Raga
Juttana “Moo” Rimreartwate (57) talks to his New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga [no age given] about the Little Thailand community in Queens. They talk about getting to know each other, the goals they have for their work, and their favorite foods in the neighborhood.
Sara Hilany and Supa Hilany
Sara Hilany (26) interviews her mother, Supa Hilany (61), about her experiences including immigration, motherhood, and involvement in the New York City Thai community.
All OCA-NY Interviews
Spouses Chin Thapvongse (84) and Suporn Thapvongse (78) share a conversation about their careers in the medical field, their family, and their memories across Thailand and the United States of America.