OUR MISSION
Banyan Roots Collective (BRC) is an inclusive literary arts organization highlighting works from and for the Asian-Pacific region and its diaspora, based in San Diego, CA (unceded territory of the Kumeyaay Nation). We promote talent and awareness through pop-up events as we build toward a dedicated space for convening community.​
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We invite you to join the collective!
WHAT'S IN A NAME?
BRC’s namesake, the banyan tree, is a fig species native to South Asia that has spread eastward all the way to Hawaii and even the continental U.S. The banyan begins life on the surface of another tree, growing distinctive aerial roots that drop to form accessory trunks. In this way, the tree envelops its host and can spread outward continually. With a vast root system and umbrella-like canopy, the banyan makes up a flourishing ecosystem and has provided shade for weary travelers through the ages. The diasporic communities of San Diego symbolized by this plant have put down roots also, in new and varied terrain, in order to thrive. And just as the banyan fruit offers food and shelter to particular wasp species that then pollinate the plant, BRC seeks to nourish and protect the cultural seeds that make the Asia-Pacific diaspora grow. Showcasing literature and adjacent arts in these communities around San Diego is core to the drive of Banyan Roots Collective.
Image by freestockcenter on Freepik
Founder's Note
Welcome to Banyan Roots Collective! I’m Thu, and I started this initiative within San Diego APIMEDA (Asian Pacific Islander Middle Eastern Desi American) communities because I crave a means to share experiences and insights among Asian-Pacific and diasporic storytellers. Some 'categories' with which I identify include: proud “jungle Asian” (our fruits win), Vietnamese refugee (Danang-born, Jersey-bred), public university educator, social scientist, multimedia arts dabbler, and mama.
Settling in SD has given me exposure and proximity to myriad ways of honoring APIMEDA identities. I hope BRC can serve as a conduit for cross-cultural engagement, a structure for dialogue, and a safe space for interaction IRL. Can’t wait to meet you!
A. Thu Ngo