Two and a half centuries ago, the publication of the Declaration of Independence set the nation on its path. Over the past 250 years, the United States has continued to evolve around the ideals of freedom, equality, the rule of law, opportunity, and diversity. The story of this nation is not only written in historical documents, but also in the lives of generations of ordinary people, those who came here, settled here, worked, built businesses, pursued education, raised families, and contributed to society in countless ways. As Chinese Americans, we are also part of this history. From the early Chinese laborers who helped build the railroads under difficult conditions, to today’s Chinese Americans who are active in technology, education, business, medicine, culture, the arts, philanthropy, and public service, our community has consistently contributed to the development of American society with diligence, resilience, wisdom, and a strong sense of responsibility.

The path of Chinese Americans has not always been smooth. We have faced challenges related to language, culture, institutions, and social environments. Yet within those challenges, we have found opportunities and created value through perseverance. Today, Chinese Americans live across the United States, participating in community building, engaging in public affairs, and striving to bring values such as family, education, integrity, diligence, responsibility, and compassion into everyday life. While preserving our cultural heritage, we also enrich the diverse fabric of American society with unique and meaningful contributions. At this important milestone of the nation’s 250th anniversary, the Chinese American Foundation hopes to join hands with community members to participate in this nationwide commemoration and celebration through meaningful action.

For many years, the Foundation has upheld its mission of “heritage, service, and connection,” actively engaging in philanthropy, educational support, cultural exchange, and community service. We believe that commemorating the 250th anniversary is not only about reflecting on history but also about continuing to spread goodwill, take responsibility, connect communities, and serve society in our daily lives.

In times of disaster and hardship, the Foundation has stood firmly with the community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we supported relief efforts by donating protective supplies to fire departments, schools, hospitals, and other institutions, aiding frontline workers and the public. After the Maui wildfires in Hawaii, we quickly organized fundraising and material aid to support displaced residents. During multiple wildfire disasters in Southern California, we have continued to assist affected families as they rebuild their lives. In education and cultural preservation, the Foundation has remained committed. After the pandemic, the Chinese language program at California State University, Northridge faced possible suspension. The Foundation stepped in with timely support, enabling the program to resume. This effort not only preserved a language course but also supported cultural understanding, identity, and the growth of future generations. In addition, the Foundation has established scholarship programs to support outstanding students from Southern California University of Health Sciences in studying and exchanging in China, promoting mutual understanding between China and the United States in medicine, humanities, and culture. While such educational and exchange initiatives may not always appear immediately significant, they leave lasting impressions on young people.

Over the years, the Foundation’s work may not always be high profile, but it is real, tangible, and meaningful. It demonstrates that the Chinese American community is not a bystander in the American story, but an integral part of this diverse society. We pursue our individual dreams while also taking responsibility for our communities, our society, and the land we share.

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Foundation will launch a special section on its website and sincerely invite community members to contribute. Submissions may focus on themes such as historical reflections on the nation’s founding, Independence Day commemorations, immigrant experiences, community contributions, cultural heritage, public service, youth development, family stories, and the struggles and achievements of Chinese Americans in American society.

“Our Stories” will also be a key focus. We hope to capture the lived experiences of Chinese Americans and the broader Asian American community through authentic, vivid, and heartfelt writing. Each personal story is a part of our collective memory, and each family narrative reflects the broader trajectory of a diverse society.

The 250th anniversary of the United States is both a national celebration and a shared moment for every community, every family, and every individual. At this significant milestone, the Chinese American Foundation hopes to gather diverse voices, reflections, and well-wishes through this commemorative platform.

Let us record our times through words, connect through stories, and express our hopes through action. Together, we celebrate this historic milestone and continue to write the story of Chinese Americans, their contributions, responsibilities, and future on this land. President of the Chinese American Foundation

Joey Yu