In this Urban Roots podcast bonus episode, Deqah and Vanessa sit down with urban and architectural historian Erica Allen-Kim to explore how the naming of cultural enclaves does far more than just signal heritage—it shapes power, perception, and belonging.
Enclave names like Little Saigon can foster pride, visibility, and a shared sense of place for diasporic communities. However, as Erica points out, their naming is also political. They raise questions about authenticity, representation, and leaves us to wonder who benefits from the branding of these neighborhoods. When cities officially recognize an enclave name, it influences how outsiders view the neighborhood and how insiders are expected to perform their identity.
This doesn’t stop at symbolic recognition—it extends into the fabric of surrounding communities. When one cultural group is given visibility through formal recognition, others might experience a sense of erasure or displacement. In the episode, Erica further emphasizes how these dynamics can unintentionally pit neighboring communities against one another, complicating collaboration across racial and ethnic lines.
This episode invites listeners to think critically about the function of culturally named spaces—not just for those who live in these places, but for how we all understand urban space, history, and each other. And don’t forget you can now purchase Erica’s new book, ‘Building Little Saigon’ - Link in Bio!
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit urbanistmedia.substack.com
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