Community Center Programs (CCP) of Cornell University & Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA) hosts

"Exit Saigon, Enter Little Saigon"
Vietnamese America since 1975

A Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibit
215 E. State St., Ithaca Commons, Ithaca, NY
September 18th to December 4th, 2010
Exhibit Hours: Monday – Saturday 11am to 6pm
Opening Reception: Saturday, September 25, 6pm
Closing Reception: Saturday, December 4, 2pm to 5pm

Exhibition Website: vietam.si.edu/exhibition.asp

The first Smithsonian exhibition to document the Vietnamese American experience, Exit Saigon tells an epic story from the perspectives of people who were forced to flee their homes and leave their possessions behind. But this is not an exhibition about tragedy. Instead, it reveals the strength and stamina of Vietnamese Americans who have found new homes in a new land. This is a story about people who have
adapted to life in the United States while maintaining their traditional folkways. A celebration of cultural diversity, Exit
Saigon explores history and religion as well as the civic and political issues that have influenced Vietnamese communities across the country.

The exhibit consists of 93 panels that focus on several core topics such as the refugee exodus from Vietnam and entry into the United States, including the “boat people”, and temporary refugee camps. The adaptation of Vietnamese to
American life is highlighted with the formation of ethnic communities and identities. Other highlights include Vietnamese contributions to America such as the hybrid creations that combine Vietnamese and American cultural
elements, from fashion to food to film.