Christopher’s Story

Growing up, mahjong was more than a game — it was family, community, and culture. My roots trace back to the Hakka people of southern China, who migrated to Jamaica during the British indentured labor period after slavery was abolished. My grandparents were part of that journey, seeking a better life while bringing with them the traditions, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of their homeland.

Mahjong was a cornerstone of our family life. My dad’s father, would host neighborhood mahjong games that lasted late into the night, filling the house with laughter, friendly competition, and stories shared across generations. I vividly remember watching the elders play during family gatherings at my Popo’s (Grandmother) home, mesmerized by the tiles clicking together and the strategy unfolding across the table. Though I was curious, I didn’t join in as a child.

It wasn’t until college in 2007 that I finally learned the basics from friends and later at a local Asian community center. Years passed, and in 2019 I bought my own set at a local gift shop. Finding no one to play with locally, I posted online — and that simple act became the start of Baldwin Park Mahjong.

Today, our club meets weekly, often with four tables in play and sometimes up to eight as our community continues to grow. Members come from all walks of life, ages, and backgrounds, many with no prior connection to Asian culture. Teaching newcomers and sharing mahjong has allowed me to pass on not just the game itself, but the stories, heritage, and cultural threads of my family — a deeply rewarding experience.

Mahjong is more than a game — it’s a way to connect people, preserve culture, and build community. It’s my hope that Baldwin Park Mahjong continues to be a welcoming space where everyone can learn, play, and share in the rich legacy of this timeless game.