A free virtual panel discussion on the Chinese diaspora in Oregon, including its impact in Grant County, will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 3.

Sponsored by the Oregon Historical Society, “Centering Chinese History in Oregon” will focus on how early Chinese residents helped shape Oregon’s development as a state.

The panel discussion will expand on the current edition of the society’s Oregon Historical Quarterly, which is entirely devoted to the Chinese diaspora. Among the speakers will be scholars whose research has focused on the powerful impact of Chinese residents on Grant County and Salem in the late 19th century.

Panelists for the discussion are Jennifer Fang, who teaches U.S. history and Asian-American history at Portland State University; Don Hann, an archaeologist who has worked extensively in the Malheur National Forest; Kimberli Fitzgerald, the historic preservation officer and city archaeologist for the city of Salem; and Chelsea Rose, a historical archaeologist whose work focuses on the development of the American West.

To register online, go to https://tinyurl.com/y5nnuhkh.