56. What are Chinatowns like in cities across the U.S.? Describe these locations, including what populations are served and what, if any, inconsistencies are present. Chinatown historically has been a way station for working-class immigrants and immigrant entrepreneurs. A balanced economic development approach will stimulate growth while benefiting instead of displacing residents and local businesses. Such an approach also will shore up rather than destroy the gateway for future generations of immigrants. “From this perspective, the Federation is proposing a set of recommendations for business development, adaptation to changes and maintenance of continuity in Chinatown. This report is the culmination of dedicated work by our research staff and volunteers, along with our field-work team. The Federation also would like to thank our Advisory Committee and The Ralph and Goldy Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies of UCLA for their indispensable input and encouragement. This study would not have been possible without the contributions of the lead funder, Carnegie Corporation of New York, and several others. Chinatown bears the promise of a vibrant and inviting commercial hub and cultural destination.” With appropriate support from government, local businesses can help themselves and become competitive. The community also will benefit from collaboration among its stakeholders toward realizing a shared vision of Chinatown’s future. Chinatown has also been growing more diverse, becoming a bit less of a Chinatown and more of a China and Southeast Asia town, with a growing presence of immigrants from Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, etc. http://www.aafederation.org
57. What is the major force that shapes all immigrant groups' experiences in the United States? Describe how the major force shapes the immigrant experience.
Immigration, perhaps more than any other social, political,