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Yat Sing Chairperson Richard Kwong, right, and Vice-Chairperson Cindy Ng portray Prince Consort Zau Sai Hin and Princess Coeng Ping — tragic lovers from the late Ming dynasty who chose death over surrender to the Qing regime — during their performance of “The Flower Princess: The Fragrant Sacrifice” in Portland, Ore., on Aug. 24, 2024.
Jeff Kastner / OPB
Where do you go to find community when you’re older?
That’s a question OPB’s Winston Szeto wanted to answer, specifically for senior communities of color.
The Yat Sing Music Club was founded in 1942 by Chinese immigrants in Portland, Oregon. The club was started to raise funds for China’s defense against Japan during World War II.
Over 80 years later, Yat Sing preserves Cantonese opera through ongoing rehearsals and community outreach. The club is particularly important for the older generation. This is a space where they can be themselves and celebrate their culture.
There’s a similar experience at Ikoi no Kai, a senior meal program in Portland that opened in 1979. It offers a space for local Japanese Americans coming together over food and connection.
In Oregon, the need for social connection is more important than ever. The latest census data says the state ranks among the highest in the country for residents who report feeling lonely.
OPB’s Winston Szeto researched this topic by looking into these two groups — and why it’s important to focus on those rarely covered in the media: seniors.
Check out OPB’s Oregon Experience documentary on the Yat Sing Music Club and story on Ikoi no Kai.
Listen to all episodes of The Evergreen podcast here.
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