Burmese Markets Thrive in Phoenix’s Cultural Renaissance

News Summary

The Burmese community in Phoenix is revitalizing its presence along 35th Avenue, with numerous markets owned by Burmese refugees creating vital cultural hubs. These markets provide familiar foods and serve as gathering places where community bonds are strengthened. Among them is Shwe Mitharsu Asian Market, frequented by locals for discussions and cultural connections. As refugee admissions rise, the Burmese markets reflect both a struggle for identity and a step towards new beginnings in America, making them essential parts of the community fabric.

Phoenix – The Burmese community in Phoenix is experiencing a renaissance, particularly along 35th Avenue, where a series of markets owned by Burmese refugees have emerged as key cultural hubs. These markets not only offer familiar foods and products but also serve as essential gathering spots for this tight-knit community.

Among the growing number of markets is Shwe Mitharsu Asian Market, a vibrant establishment where locals congregate every Friday afternoon post-prayer from a nearby mosque. Here, men engage in lively discussions, strengthening their bonds and cultural ties. This market, which was purchased by the family of Shamela Lar in 2024, is part of a mile-long stretch of 35th Avenue that includes six markets collectively operated by Burmese refugees.

For many members of the Burmese community, these businesses embody their aspirations for a better life in the United States, especially as new arrivals adapt to their new surroundings. Having resettled over 141,598 refugees from Myanmar since 2010, the U.S. has seen Arizona welcome approximately 6,200 of them, primarily settling in the metro Phoenix area. This has become a significant center for the Burmese population, particularly along the I-17 corridor.

Local markets such as Golden Land International Market, which opened in the early 2010s, have positioned themselves as critical places for community connection and cultural identity. Foreign-born owners often purchase established markets rather than launch new ones—a financial reality shaped by constraints faced by many refugees. Lar’s family, for instance, worked for 16 years, pooling financial resources from relatives to secure Shwe Mitharsu, reflecting the common challenges in starting anew in a foreign land.

The business environments of these Burmese markets are unique. Owners, such as those at Jomil Asian Mart, which was bought by the Jomil Islamic family, prioritize relationships with customers over price competition. Close ties and shared cultural backgrounds influence customer loyalty, with many locals favoring businesses that align with their ethnicity and religion. For example, Lar’s market caters to a Muslim demographic by offering halal options, further solidifying community support.

The solidarity among community members is evident, especially during crises, including fundraising efforts for disaster relief. Market owners often extend support to one another, focusing on customer service and maintaining positive reputations, which are crucial in a closely-knit community. This camaraderie provides a backdrop against the struggles many face, such as navigating life after fleeing violence and persecution in Myanmar, particularly affecting ethnic minorities like the Rohingya.

In addition to serving traditional groceries and textiles, the markets also offer unique prepared meals that resonate with the nostalgia of older generations. For many, like Rosalynne Chan, the chance to find authentic Burmese food—often a rarity in Phoenix—is vital. Asian Nest Market, for example, features prepared meals available on weekends, allowing patrons to enjoy flavors reminiscent of their childhood.

As the national landscape for refugee resettlement evolves, the Burmese community in Phoenix stands resilient. The U.S. has seen a recent uptick in refugee admissions, with over 60,000 welcomed in the 2023 fiscal year, including a significant number from Myanmar. Despite the shifting demographics of new arrivals from countries like Venezuela, Afghanistan, and Congo, the Burmese community continues to flourish, weaving their unique cultural threads into the fabric of Phoenix. Ownership of these markets is not just a means of survival; it represents hope, connection, and a tangible piece of home for many families.

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Additional Resources

• AZ Central: Burmese Markets in Phoenix
• France 24: Focus on Rohingya Refugees
• Stacker: Refugees in Arizona
• New York Times: Refugee Stories
• VOA: Refugees and Soccer
• Wikipedia: Refugees in the United States
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Refugee
• Google Search: Burmese Community in Phoenix