Chinese business associations have a unique role to play in international economic collaboration. Their leaders have a strong background in business and a wide range of socio-political knowledge. Their companies operate across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
These “Old China Hands” formed a variety of organizations including trade, civic, and religious groups. They also worked closely with main stream groups to help their fellow citizens in times of need.
Founded in 1884
The China Association has many functions, from promoting Chinese culture to providing a platform for students and scholars to connect with each other. It also hosts national events, organizes holiday celebrations and academic forums. It is a valuable resource for those looking to learn more about the country and its people.
In addition to its social and charitable work, the CCBA works with mainstream organizations to provide services to at-risk Chinese American immigrants. It helps them gain access to much-needed social and health care. It also assists them with applying for citizenship and registering as voters.
The CCBA’s archives contain minutes and papers of the organization’s General Committee and Executive Committee; correspondence with the Foreign Office, Board of Trade, Hong Kong Association and the British Chambers of Commerce in Hankow and Tientsin; reports on Chinese political events, and a number of albums and photographs. The collection also includes records of local clan, county and village societies.
Branches across the United States
The Coordination Council of Chinese American Associations (CCCAA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the community. It works towards social and economic justice for Chinese Americans and involving them in the decision making processes that affect their lives. It also provides educational, advocacy, service and organizing programs. Its members are professionals in various fields such as science, technology, education, business, law and medicine.
In the United States, OCSCs operate in cities with large Chinese-American populations. They promote the community’s culture and heritage, and organize civic activities. They also promote economic development and job training for local residents.
In late 2014, a group of OCSC representatives traveled to Zhejiang province, where they met with officials at a police station that serves as the hub for multiple MPS “Overseas Chinese Police Contact Points.” The visit alarmed national security experts who spoke with DCNF. They were reportedly shown a demonstration of an MPS-developed “internet + law enforcement” platform.
Dedicated to the preservation of Chinese culture
The organization supports the current and future cultural preservation needs of America’s Chinatowns, including backing legacy Chinatown businesses and institutions, preserving these unique places’ architectural fabric, and publicly interpreting their stories. In addition, CCBA works to educate people about the rich history of Chinese-American culture.
The association encourages members to participate in community affairs and promotes participation by Chinese Americans in education, business and government so that they can contribute to society. It also aims to foster good citizenship and cultivate a sense of dual heritage in the community.
Many urban Chinatowns have been threatened by gentrification, which is pushing out low-income residents and increasing housing costs. The 1882 Foundation and other groups are working to preserve these sites and their stories. Some have even been nominated for National Historic Landmark status, like the 1.6-mile Summit Tunnel built by Chinese immigrants using picks and shovels. Several cities, including Seattle and Philadelphia, have been added to the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s “11 Most Endangered Places” list due to proposed developments.
Helping Chinese-Americans in need
ACA has been working to help disadvantaged Asian Americans realize their American Dream. The organization supports youth education, enhances senior living, and improves health and wellness. It also works to promote community unity. The foundation has provided personal protective equipment to frontline workers in need and helped families rebuild after natural disasters.
CCBA has been instrumental in helping Chinese immigrants establish businesses and secure their citizenship in the United States. In addition, it helps them obtain social work services and provides health seminars. Moreover, it has played a vital role in preparing Chinatown for emergencies.
The foundation also provides scholarships for college students and encourages people to take action against racism. It has recently launched a campaign to raise funds for the families of victims of hate crimes. This includes the family of Yanfang Wu, a 63-year-old woman who was shoved to death while waiting for a bus in 2023. The campaign has raised more than $200,000 to date.