Influence of the Chinese Community in America: Joining Associations to Amplify Voices

[May 23, 2023] (Reported by Shawn Ma, Industrial City) In recent years, there has been a growing number of Chinese immigrants from mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and other places moving to the United States. After immigrating, how can they establish themselves in America and showcase the unique value of the Chinese community? Last Saturday, on May 20th, the "Diamond Bar Chinese American Association" (DBCAA) held its inauguration and fundraising event at the Pacific Palms Resort in Industrial City. Hundreds of Chinese individuals gathered together, networking, referring one another, and demonstrating their active involvement in local community initiatives. On that evening, Southern California Chinese entrepreneur George Guo was elected as the new president and generously donated $20,000 during the event. In 2017, he established teacher awards, student scholarships, and financial aid named after his company to support local Chinese language schools. George Guo hopes to unite the Chinese community and harness their collective strength for better collaboration within the community. Embracing inclusivity to empower the Chinese in American society Upon arriving in the United States, many Chinese individuals, whether from their home country or from places like Taiwan and Hong Kong, aspire to make a meaningful impact in their local communities after overcoming language, cultural, and social barriers. Some also seek to preserve their ethnic heritage, including language, traditions, and customs. These desires have prompted some enthusiastic Chinese individuals to step forward in the realm of public service. "I believe that whether we are Chinese from the mainland, Taiwan, or Hong Kong, we should be inclusive," said Theresa Lee, the 33rd president of the Diamond Bar Chinese American Association. "We have put down roots here, planted the seeds, and our children are growing here. We should acknowledge and embrace one another, making the Chinese community stronger." Engaging in charitable activities can be demanding, but it can also be fulfilling. Lee added, "Sometimes, you get so tired that you feel like you can't get up, but when you see some results in the end, you still feel happy. We all have a mission, and as long as it's the right one, we should follow along together." Observing various Chinese community activities in Southern California reveals that many Chinese individuals wear multiple hats. Apart from participating in charitable and volunteer activities in schools and communities, some highly capable Chinese individuals also run for public office. Lee Min-ni is the incumbent commissioner for the Walnut Valley Water District and has been actively engaged in community service for many years. Her husband, Dr. Chia-Yu Teng, is the current city council member for Diamond Bar, practicing in the Southern California Chinese community for over 30 years. The couple is highly regarded and welcomed within the Chinese community. As a council member, Dr. Teng is concerned about various community issues. Recently, upon learning about the challenges faced by mainland Chinese immigrants entering Los Angeles, he actively reached out to city and county officials and relief organizations, aiming to help new immigrants in times of difficulty. Dr. Teng also hopes to promote the preservation of Chinese traditional culture through Chinese community organization activities. "After Chinese immigrants establish themselves in the United States, they should participate as much as possible in various activities organized by local Chinese associations, connect with others, and ensure that the next generation of Chinese individuals continues to be exposed to Chinese culture, allowing it to be passed down in the United States," said Dr. Teng. Increasing recognition of the Chinese community in mainstream society Dr. Yibo Tong, chairman of the Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) Board of Trustees, has also served as president of the Diamond Bar Chinese American Association for two terms. He noted that many Chinese individuals have been elected as local officials, which signifies that the Chinese community has firmly established itself in the United States. He believes that Chinese individuals in the United States must participate in mainstream local activities. Organizing such events also attracts participation from mainstream society, including congressional and county representatives. "Chinese individuals in American society must participate, and the most important thing is to make an impact," said Dr. Tong. His personal experience shows that active involvement in various support activities, volunteering, and demonstrating one's contribution to the community can lead to recognition. "People will gradually get to know you. Then, naturally, you can run for office." He also emphasized the importance of unity among Chinese individuals. Without unity, they risk losing influence, so maintaining good relationships with everyone is essential. In Diamond Bar, Chinese officials make up a significant portion of local leadership, including Mayor Paul Zhou, Vice Mayor Minnie Liu, and Councilmember Chia-Yu Teng. Sue Ho, spokesperson for TACC (Community Safety Responsibility Security Organization), who attended the event, is also dedicated to public service. She is actively involved in various community organizations and not only participates in public safety activities for the Chinese community but also frequently organizes charity and other philanthropic activities to assist community members. Sue said, "Chinese individuals excel in various fields, and even ordinary citizens can contribute significantly. When we organize them, we can brainstorm and achieve more together." She hopes that Chinese individuals can unite and support each other. "When people gather together, sparks fly, and beneficial community activities emerge."