On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the GRAMMY Museum came alive with the spirit of remembrance, resilience, and celebration as it hosted a special AAPI Heritage Month event centered around the award-winning documentary Far East Deep South. The event, which was free and open to the public, drew a diverse and enthusiastic crowd eager to explore the untold history of Chinese Americans in the Deep South and honor the legacy of Charles Chiu, the film’s central figure who passed away in August 2024.
The afternoon began with a powerful screening of Far East Deep South, a poignant documentary that follows the Chiu family’s unexpected journey to Mississippi. The film continues to resonate with audiences across the nation for its unflinching look at the overlooked presence of Chinese immigrants in the segregated South during the Jim Crow era. Through personal stories and historical insights, the documentary highlighted the deep connections between Black and Asian communities, while exploring themes of race, identity, and belonging in America.
Following the screening, the audience was treated to a heartfelt and thought-provoking live Q&A session with the film’s creative team. Director and singer-songwriter Larissa Lam, producer and hip-hop artist Baldwin Chiu (aka Only Won), and Emmy Award-winning composer Nathan Wang shared personal stories behind the making of the film, offering a deeper look into the research, emotional journey, and cultural impact of the project.
To cap off the afternoon, Larissa Lam and Only Won took to the stage for an unforgettable musical performance. Joined by an all-star band featuring GRAMMY Award-winner Dale Edward Chung, guitarist David Clark, and international artist J.P. Mourão, the performance showcased the vibrancy and talent of the AAPI creative community. The music not only entertained but reinforced the film’s message of cultural pride and cross-cultural solidarity.
It was a memorable reminder of the power of storytelling to heal, educate, and unite communities.
