American International Journal of Social Science

Master Yang: Protecting Cultural Heritage, Continuing the Tradition
Grace F. Johnson, Ha Shiling

Abstract
Purpose: This project examines one Sichuancounty’s situation and a woman’s six-year journey to improve the livelihoods of village families devastated by the Great Wenchuan Earthquake of 2008. Design/methodology/approach: The case uses personal interviews to explain Master Yang’s entrepreneurial efforts to help families in Wenchuan County, Sichuan Province, China. Findings: Although Master Yang’s embroidery center provides a source of income to the earthquake region’sfamilies, Master Yang faces a new challenge: how to preserve an ethnic tradition in the face of changing interests and values. Originality/value: Master Yang’s experience offers a model for others facing a loss of income because of natural disaster or displacement. Her reliance on available human and financial resources provides a path to restore monetary and social capital for devastated families.

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