Riversdale Chinatown
"Reimagining Saskatoon’s Chinatown through public art, community programming, and archival storytelling."
The Riversdale Chinatown project aims to foster togetherness, preserve culture, and start conversations. Our goal is to tell the story of Saskatoon's Chinatown. And use those stories to create something new. Drawing inspiration from the values of Chinatowns worldwide, we will centre the spirit of resilience, adaptability, and cultural exchange.
We intend to explore Chinatowns as a concept, to reimagine them in a modern context. How can we reflect on and evolve from our past, while honouring and preserving our history?
Although this neighbourhood was traditionally defined by Chinese identity, it's become reminiscent of many diasporas and their people; presenting the potential for a multicultural hub. A gathering... a practice... a third space for all— the feeling of home.
There are countless businesses and community organizations already providing wonderful services in Riversdale. By engaging in active partnerships with our neighbours, we hope to work together to ensure Saskatoon’s Chinatown can thrive.
Cantonese: 河[ho4]都[dou1]華[wa4]埠[fau6]
Mandarin: 河(hé) 都(dū) 华(huá) 埠(bù)
The name “Riversdale” comes from two roots— river and dale. 「河」is a direct translation for river. The word dale means valley/near shore. There were two options for 'elegant words' 「濱/畔」 Both are used to describe an open geographical feature, close to a body of water. Both have an artistic/historical touch. We then recalled an existing translation at the Riversdale House (332 Ave B). They had added「都」meaning city, capturing the urban context of the neighbourhood.
Now is the time to act. Join us in restoring this piece of our city's history. Be apart of a community led by connection, innovation, and mutual care. By bridging the past to the present and welcoming change, we strengthen our city for future generations.