Thai Town

THAI TOWN photo essay by | Curtis Sabir | Collegian Times | 7

“People here have found a way to stay connected to their roots. They fuse their Thai traditions with American customs.” oPPosite Page: bottom row: -

AS I ENTER THAI Town to document life in the community, I am immediately drawn to the golden half-man, half-bird Kinarra lamppost sculptures that flank the neighborhood.

They look down from their perch as they watch over and guard the community from harm.

Just down the street, I see people bow in front

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of a shrine where a regal stone deity sits and holds court. Some walk by and leave offerings of food, water or incense, while others stay and pray.

Today, Buddhist monks in bright mustard-colored robes assemble a gathering inside a warehouse.

The sight reminds me of jummah prayer – a Friday prayer service where Muslims come together in a

show of communal solidarity.

People here have found a way to stay connected to their roots. They fuse their Thai traditions with American customs.

People in this community smile and greet each other and outside visitors equally.

This is a place of peace. ¶

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