The Asian American Heritage Park project is located on 27 Main Street, located next to the Bing Kong Tong building and 25 Main Street, one of the restored buildings in Isleton. The park will include a historical perspective of events that impacted the Japanese and Chinese through the generations and their contribution to the United States. The goal of this educational park is to stimulate some discussion with the younger generation about history, sacrifice, perseverance and honor. There were many repressive legislation and restrictions against the Asians but the ones identified here are the major events that impacted both the Chinese and Japanese in their quest for freedom and equality.
The major events identified are:
- Executive Order 9066
- Civil Liberties Act of 1988 HR 442
- 100/442 Regimental Combat Team
- 1882Chinese Exclusion Act
- Paper Son
- Alien Land Law
The entrance to the park will have an exhibit wall describing the history and settlement of the Chinese and Japanese in the historic district. Also part of the entrance will be a special exhibit honoring Bessie Toy Chinn who was a matriarch in the Chinese Community.
Kansho-do
Kansho in Japanese means bell. Do means temple. The plans for the Kansho-do were donated by Irene Itamura from Yuba City. Her late brother Ray Takata from Sacramento designed the Kansho-do for the Marysville Buddhist Church. The Kansho-do will be a place of meditation, respite and reflection. This Kansho-do will be a reminder of the Buddhist Church on F Street that was the focal point for the Japanese Community before the Internment. It was the place where families gathered, prayed and supported each other. The Buddhist Church still remains today but replaced by a Christian Church. There will also be a plaque honoring Ray Takata for his generous donation to the Marysville Buddhist Church and now, through his sister, Irene Itamura, to the Asian American Garden Project.