After President Nixon's historic visit to China in 1972, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) gradually made its way beyond China’s borders, taking root in the United States and becoming a vital force in promoting community health. Last year marks the 45th anniversary of China-U.S. diplomatic relations. To commemorate this significant occasion, the Meihua Foundation and Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) jointly hosted a grand celebration to highlight the development of TCM in the U.S. and its profound impact.

The event was grandly held on October 18, 2024 at the Southern California University of Health Sciences, attracting numerous distinguished guests from government, healthcare, academia, and various community sectors. Attendees included Zhiqiang Guo, Deputy Consul General of the Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles; Mingshuan An, Consul for Overseas Chinese Affairs; Lijun Yang, Education Consul; Ed Chau, Judge of the Los Angeles County Superior Court and his wife; Joey Yu, President of the Chinese American Foundation; Sher Li, Chairman of the Board; Suki Liao, Treasurer and Secretary-General.

Also present were Simon Shao, Chairman of the Honorary Presidium of the Chinese American Federation of Southern California; Honorary Presidents Gang Zhou and Kin Hui; Senior Honorary Advisor Wenjian Zeng; Veteran Honorary Advisor Xingsheng Wang; Yvette Yang, President of the Board of Directors; Fei Pang, Supervisor General; Linda Cao, Executive Director; Selina Zeng, Chief Supervisor; Rihua Li, Zhibin Wang, and Shaomin Huang, Executive Presidents; Dongping Huang, Yourong Mao, and Tao Huyan, Senior Executive Presidents; Rui Xu, Chief Secretary; Ulan, Deputy Chief Secretary; Zheng Chen, Deputy Chief Supervisor; Feibi Ren, Songlin Pan, and Ming Zhang, Senior Vice Presidents. Additionally, close friends and guests of the Chinese American Foundation, including Yun Shi, Hui Jing, Qunhua Zhang, Ping Yu, and Mingzhong Hu, also attended the celebration.

Guests from the Southern California University of Health Sciences include: President/CEO Dr. John Scaringe, Dr. Christine Veltri, Chief of Staff Chuck Sweet, CFO Tom Arendt, Vice Provost of Academic Affairs Dr. Michael Ramcharan, Dr. Catherine Leduc, Dr. Blake Daniels, Dr. Prasad Vinjamury, Dr. Larry Hsiao, Dr. Eric Hsiao, Dr. Henry Hwang, Dr. Jim Whedon, Executive Assistant Vickie Sapien, Executive Assistant Lisa Zabinski.

Blake Daniels, a faculty member of the SCU College of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, served as the host of the event, warmly welcoming all attendees. The atmosphere was lively and enthusiastic.

In his opening speech, SCU President John Scaringe expressed his high recognition of the significance of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) within the U.S. medical system. The integration of TCM has not only expanded healthcare options in the U.S. but also provided the public with diverse health management solutions. He extended his sincere gratitude to the Meihua Foundation for co-hosting this event, celebrating the flourishing development of TCM in the U.S. together.

During the event, Zhiqiang Guo, Deputy Consul General of the Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles, delivered an important speech. He noted that this year marks the 45th anniversary of China-U.S. diplomatic relations. Over the past 45 years, despite challenges, the bilateral relationship has generally progressed, with deepening cooperation in trade, technology, education, and culture. History has proven that the development of China-U.S. relations not only enhances the well-being of both nations' people but also contributes to global peace, stability, and development.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), as an essential part of Chinese culture, not only has a long history and widespread recognition in China but has also gradually integrated into the U.S. healthcare system, becoming a popular choice for health and wellness among Americans. This fully demonstrates that exchanges and cooperation between China and the U.S., based on mutual respect, can bring tangible benefits to both nations' people.

Deputy Consul General Guo expressed his sincere gratitude to the event’s organizers—the Meihua Foundation and the Southern California University of Health Sciences. He also extended his highest respect to all attendees, particularly the experts, scholars, and practitioners who have contributed to promoting cultural exchange and the development of TCM in the U.S. He expressed his belief that, through the joint efforts of these two great nations, the future of TCM in the U.S. will be even brighter, and the friendship between the Chinese and American people will continue to deepen.

U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu also attended the event, emphasizing the progress and cooperation between China and the U.S. in the medical field. She reflected on the historic significance of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1979 and highlighted the remarkable achievements in the recognition and development of TCM, especially acupuncture, in the U.S. Judy Chu stated that she has long been a proud ally of the acupuncture community. Since her time in the California State Assembly, she has actively advocated for acupuncture-related policies. She recalled three significant battles fought alongside hundreds of acupuncturists: successfully increasing the minimum training hours required for acupuncture certification in California, ensuring that acupuncture treatment was covered by California’s workers’ compensation system, and securing a sales tax exemption for herbal prescriptions issued by licensed acupuncturists in the state.

Shortly before the outbreak of the pandemic, the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced for the first time that acupuncture services for chronic lower back pain would be covered under Medicare. This was a milestone achievement, as it signified federal recognition of acupuncture’s benefits. However, licensed acupuncturists are still not recognized as Medicare providers.

Congresswoman Judy Chu is currently actively advocating for legislation that would ensure comprehensive Medicare coverage for acupuncture services and allow licensed acupuncturists to provide care under the program. She firmly believes that as we continue to work together, we can further elevate acupuncture and other traditional Chinese medicine therapies, benefiting millions of patients across the country. During the event, she also presented certificates of appreciation to the event’s co-hosts in recognition of their contributions.

In his speech, Joey Yu, President of the Chinese American Foundation, expressed his gratitude to the Southern California University of Health Sciences for organizing the event and discussed the development and future prospects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the U.S. He mentioned that in 1972, during President Nixon's visit to China, the journalists who accompanied him underwent acupuncture treatments and wrote about their experiences, sparking strong public interest in TCM in the U.S. This event is still regarded as a significant turning point in the promotion of TCM in America.

Since then, public interest in TCM in the U.S. has steadily increased, and more and more healthcare institutions have begun researching and applying TCM. This has laid the foundation for the legalization and standardization of TCM in the country. He also called on more organizations and individuals to participate in the promotion and dissemination of TCM, working together to further deepen cultural exchanges between China and the U.S.

Jenny Yu, Dean of the College of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine at Southern California University (SCU), shared the achievements and vision of SCU in the field of TCM education. She pointed out that since its founding in 1911, SCU has been dedicated to training integrative healthcare practitioners. It is the only TCM institution to enter the mainstream in the U.S. and the first to offer an entry-level Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM) degree. SCU pioneered the DACM program and became the first institution to receive both regional and programmatic accreditation, as well as approval from the California Acupuncture Board. This marks a significant advancement in the integration of TCM into the U.S. education system and is a major milestone in the development and recognition of TCM in the U.S., through the cultivation of qualified practitioners and the increased visibility of TCM in mainstream healthcare.

Additionally, Dean Jenny Yu emphasized that SCU is one of the few medical universities in the U.S. that integrates Western medicine, complementary and integrative medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine. As an institution focused on health professions, SCU has developed an interdisciplinary educational model, offering students immersive academic and clinical experiences across different disciplines. SCU also provides students with the opportunity to visit and study in China, expanding their educational and cultural knowledge. During their visits to China, students observe and learn at renowned TCM universities and hospitals, while also visiting various museums to deepen their understanding of Chinese culture.

At the end of the event, Sher Li, Chairwoman of the Chinese American Foundation's Board of Directors, delivered a closing speech. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all participants and attendees and highly praised the outstanding contributions of SCU. She thanked SCU for historically changing the status of acupuncturists in the U.S. and for enhancing the credibility of TCM, acupuncture, and massage in American communities. SCU has trained numerous TCM practitioners and professionals, contributing to the diversity of the U.S. healthcare industry, and, more importantly, bringing a "blessing" to the health of the American people.

Chairwoman Li stated that TCM is not only a treasure of Chinese culture but also a bridge that enhances the health and friendship between the people of China and the U.S. Looking ahead, she expressed her hope that with the joint efforts of all sectors, cultural exchanges between China and the U.S. will continue to thrive, and the development of TCM in the U.S. will be further advanced.

The event concluded successfully amidst enthusiastic applause, and attendees continued to celebrate this important moment during the subsequent banquet. In a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, everyone exchanged ideas, shared experiences, and further deepened mutual understanding and friendship. This celebration was not only a commemoration of the 45th anniversary of China-U.S. diplomatic relations but also a hopeful look toward the future development of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the U.S. As more and more Americans embrace and use TCM treatments, TCM will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in promoting the health of both nations' people, as well as fostering cultural understanding and strengthening friendship.

Simon Shao, Chairman of the Honorary Presidium of the Chinese American Federation of Southern California

Yvette Yang, President of the Board of Directors of the Chinese American Federation of Southern California

Rihia Li, Executive Presidents of the Chinese American Federation of Southern California

The student representative from SCU delivered a speech

[Photo provided by: President Mao Yourong; Chinese American Federation of the Americas]

Attachment:

Speech by Joey Yu, President of the Chinese American Foundation:

Deputy Consul General Guo Zhiqiang, Congresswoman Judy Chu, President Scaringe, Dean Yu, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

First of all, on behalf of the Meihua Foundation, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Southern California University of Health Sciences for organizing such a meaningful event. Over the past few months, we have worked together and made joint efforts to make this event a reality. Thank you all for your support and participation.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)! President Nixon's historic visit to China in 1972 had a significant impact on the public perception of TCM. This visit not only opened diplomatic relations between the United States and China but also sparked public interest in TCM in the U.S. During Nixon's visit, the accompanying journalist James Reston received acupuncture treatment for appendicitis and reported it in The New York Times, which attracted widespread attention and discussion in the U.S. President Nixon's visit undoubtedly helped facilitate the acceptance and interest in TCM in the U.S. After Nixon's visit, there was a significant increase in American curiosity about Chinese culture, technology, and medical practices, with TCM becoming an important part of this emerging interest.

Over the years, the influence of TCM in the U.S. has greatly increased. U.S. medical and research institutions have begun conducting more studies on TCM. These studies have not only validated the effectiveness of TCM treatments but also contributed to the legalization and standardization of TCM in the U.S.

As TCM has become more widespread in the U.S., some medical schools and health education institutions began offering courses in TCM and acupuncture, training local TCM practitioners.

Various states have gradually established licensing systems for TCM practitioners, ensuring that practitioners possess the necessary professional knowledge and skills. These legislative measures have helped ensure the safety and efficacy of TCM treatments, further enhancing public trust.

Over time, more and more Americans have embraced and used TCM treatments, especially for pain management, stress relief, and conditions where traditional medical methods have limited effectiveness. TCM has gradually become a respected and widely accepted alternative medical practice in the U.S.

Overall, President Nixon’s visit to China sparked widespread interest in TCM in the U.S. This interest has, over time, evolved into practical research, education, legislation, and daily application, which has had a significant impact on the development of TCM in the U.S.

This year, we are also celebrating the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the U.S. Today's event is very special, marking an important milestone between the two countries. I am very grateful to Southern California University for organizing this event and for your cooperation. I wish everyone good health, and thank you for your attendance.

Speech by Li Shechao, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors, Chinese American Foundation:

Dear Dr. John Scaringe, President of SCU, Dean Jenny Yu, President Yu Zewei, Deputy Consul General Guo Zhiqiang, Congresswoman Judy Chu, Judge Zhou Benli and Mrs. Zhou, members of the board and advisors of the Meihua Foundation, distinguished guests, and friends, good afternoon!

Today, we gather to celebrate a special event: witnessing the journey of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the U.S. and its growth, as we mark the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the United States! TCM, which originated in China, has a history of over two thousand years. It is a treasure of medical civilization and a crystallization of the wisdom and creativity of the Chinese people. TCM has made irreplaceable contributions to human health and the development of medicine!

Recently, I read an interview with Dean Jenny Yu, and as we heard in today’s introduction, Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU), with its 110-year history, is the largest and the only mainstream, accredited TCM university in the U.S. It has also founded the first TCM medical school in the U.S. recognized by the Department of Education, offering a doctoral degree in TCM. When I saw this report, I was very pleasantly surprised! Today, I want to say: thank you, SCU, for historically changing the status of acupuncturists in the U.S., and for enhancing the credibility of TCM, acupuncture, and massage therapy in American communities. SCU has trained a large number of TCM practitioners and professionals, promoting diversity in the U.S. healthcare industry. More importantly, it has brought “good news” to the health of the American people.

When we talk about the relationship between TCM and the U.S., we cannot avoid the historical figure of President Nixon. In 1972, President Nixon embarked on a groundbreaking journey to establish China-U.S. relations, and during the delegation's visit to Beijing, they witnessed the miraculous effects of acupuncture anesthesia. Fifty-two years ago, this miracle spread worldwide through news reports of President Nixon’s visit to China, stunning the world. In 1979, former President Carter, now 100 years old, announced the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and China. Since then, the people-to-people medical exchange between the two countries has never stopped.

Today, as we celebrate the 45th anniversary of China-U.S. diplomatic relations, I am deeply moved by the journey of TCM from the distant East to the U.S. after the establishment of diplomatic ties. It is thanks to institutions like SCU, along with countless professional predecessors and inheritors, that TCM has been pushed onto the world stage and has flourished, benefiting a broader society!

As a member of the Meihua Foundation, I feel very honored! In recent years, under the leadership of President Yu Zewei, the Meihua Foundation has lived up to expectations and promoted many projects: "Our Story," continuously funding Chinese language classes at California State University Northridge, relief efforts for the Maui Island disaster, and actively assisting in major activities organized by Meihua. Especially for today’s event, President Yu Zewei and Treasurer Song Yuanyuan have worked tirelessly, putting in great effort and dedication! Today, with great expectations, we look forward to the future, and with the strong support of all the leaders and friends here, the Meihua Foundation will continue to promote cultural and TCM exchanges between China and the U.S., benefiting society!

Finally, I wish Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) continued development! I also want to express my heartfelt thanks to Consul General An, Consul Yang, Honorary President Dr. Shao Wen, President Yang Yifan, Supervisor Pang Fei, Honorary President Zhou Gang, Advisor Xu Jian and his wife, Advisor Zeng Xiaomei, and all friends and guests of Meihua for attending today’s event. I sincerely thank everyone for taking the time to be here!

I wish you all a pleasant weekend!