The Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association (CRWDA) is thrilled to break ground tomorrow on Utah’s first monument honoring Chinese railroad workers. This monument will acknowledge the contributions of over 11,000 Chinese railroad workers, whose strength, skills, and determination resulted in completing the westward portion of the first Transcontinental Railroad in the United States.
The CRWDA firmly believes that this monument will be an essential reminder for all visitors to Utah’s splendid Capitol grounds of the pivotal role Asian immigrants played in constructing our great nation.
The monument’s design, generously done by architect Porheang Ear with MJSA Architects, combines granite representing the Sierra Mountains and sandstone representing the journey from Nevada to the Great Salt Lake Desert, honoring the pioneers’ challenging path. It incorporates a Corten steel outline of Utah, reinforcing the stone elements, and a stainless-steel core symbolizing the workers’ unwavering spirit. A cutout in the layers reveals the core, marking its location on the southeast side of the State Capitol. Additionally, a plaque will pay tribute to Chinese workers, along with immigrants, Native Americans, former slaves, Civil War veterans, and LDS Church members who played a crucial role in this monumental effort.
About CRWDA: The Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association (CRWDA) is dedicated to preserving the legacy and contributions of the original Chinese railroad workers who played a pivotal role in constructing the Transcontinental Railroad in the United States. CRWDA works tirelessly to ensure their sacrifices, endurance, and unwavering commitment are never forgotten. Its members are descendants and friends of the original Chinese railroad workers of the 1860s.
WHEN: Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at 1:00 pm
WHERE: Utah State Capitol, Southeast Lawn
SPEAKERS:
- Senator Karen Kwan, District 12, President and CEO of the CRWDA
- Margaret Yee, Chairwoman of the CRWDA
- Spike 150/ The Golden Spike Foundation (GSF) Board members
- Descendants of Chinese transcontinental railroad workers
- Community leaders
