With support from the California Council on the Arts, the Locke Foundation presents “Traces of our Roots” in collaboration with local artists, the Jan Ying Association, California Parks and Recreation, and community members. This collaborative art project chronicles the culturally rich history of the AAPI people (Asian American and Pacific Islanders) and immigrants of the Sacramento San Joaquin Delta community of Locke. Through storytelling, poetry, music, and new media, this art walk enlightens and inspires by tracing over one hundred years of immigrant rural farm life to today’s artistic and culturally diverse inhabitants. Visitors of all ages can engage and learn more about this national landmark town and its local culture. Our dedication to inclusivity and accessibility results in free participation, and an audio-based project for the visually impaired offered in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
-Organize annual Spring and Winter cultural festivals including dance, music, poetry, painting, culinary arts, flower arrangement, photography, film screening, conferences, and art workshops.
-Host free cultural events for the community, past residents, and the general public
-Host cultural field trips to elementary schools in the area
-Identify and mandate areas of preservation in accordance with the National Historic District designation of the community.
-Collect and archive cultural artifacts and cultural materials relating to the immigrant life in Locke and the surrounding Delta farmlands and communities.
– Manage the Oral History Project: Document oral histories of long-term residents and families.
-Develop and provide interpretive services and information about the Chinese and local historical community, the California State Parks Boarding House Museum, the Dai Loy Gambling House Museum, Jan Ying Chinese Association Museum, and the Joe Shoong Chinese School Museum.
-Provide free docent-led museum and culture tours for visitors.
-Maintains the Locke Memorial Park and Monument.
-Presents speakers and exhibits on topics of historical and cultural interest relating to Locke, the Delta and immigrant communities throughout the year.
-The LF Scholarship Program, offering academic awards to local high school seniors.
-Publish quarterly Newsletters on the events and stories of and related to Locke and Chinese culture and immigrant history of the Delta.
-Maintain Locke website.
-Create, design and install historic plaques, markers, and highway signage.
-Maintain the Locke Chinese Vegetable Demonstration Garden.

