Sketch for HAFA
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HAFA's Plan
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HAFAThe building housing the Hmong American Friendship Association Inc. is a single-storied south facing structure, situated on a large lot. The building is currently divided into three sections. The entrance leads into the front office with a reception area, a museum and a seating nook. The middle section consists of a conference room, an open office with many cubicles and smaller office spaces. The back section consists of two closets (one enclosed, one not), two restrooms, a freight elevator and big kitchen and dining area. In addition, there is a back patio (or warehouse) with a loading dock at the rear of the building. There are three primary entrances to the building, one of which is a handicap-accessible entrance located on the western end.
There are many murals in this building. Each mural explains a story, whether it is the Hmong journey out of Laos and Thailand or about life back in the homeland. The back room containing the dining area has many quilts and embroidered artwork showing historical scenes. The smell of food, sight of elders socializing, and the tunes of traditional music make this space seem very cozy and homey. Pictures of Hmong groups are arranged along the walls of the hallway connecting the back room to the front entrance area. The front room feels more formal compared to the dining area. It acts as a museum with Hmong cultural artifacts, tools, cookware and ceremonial arms. Like the murals, the building tells us a story. The interior of HAFA introduces us to three distinct representations of Hmong life, history and culture. The front, with its formal display of cultural artifacts, represents an official account of important people, places, and periods in Hmong history. The middle space, with offices, and posters of social services that is offered by HAFA to various stakeholders within the community give us a glimpse into the everyday life, social problems, political issues and needs of Hmong immigrants in the US. The back room, with the smell of food and a domestic ambience, gives us a glimpse into the everyday lived experience of Hmong immigrants in Washington Park. |
HAFA has a lot to offer to the Hmong community. It also has a comfortable welcoming gathering area in the far back room almost creating a sense of home.
Inside of HAFA
HAFA Hmong America Friendship Association
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