Every time I find myself back in Chinatown, I'm reminded that change happens slowly around here. The area in which I grew up seems to be unique in withstanding the gentrification that has transformed much of the other neighborhoods that surround it.

Growing up, my parents worked in Chinatown and I begrudgingly spent many of my weekends behind the counter of my dad's store. I remember thinking that Chinatown was too crowded, dirty, and worn-down.

In years since, I feel a new sense of appreciation for this neighborhood and its ability to carve out a wonderful gathering space for Chinese immigrants to Chicago. It was not until I grew older that I began to grasp the importance — not to mention the privilege — of having a community that feels like home for members of the Chinese-American diaspora. It is perhaps one of the biggest reasons why Chinatown continues to be fiercely resistant to the effects of gentrification.