CONVENTIONS

From Exclusion to Empowerment: Shaping a Just Future

The Chinese American Citizens Alliance (C.A.C.A.) convened its 58th National Biennial Convention September 5 – 7, 2025 in San Francisco, California, at its National Headquarters on Stockton Street. This was the first time since 1977 that the National Board of Directors, with the support of several Past National Presidents, organized and hosted the gathering at the organization’s historic home base.

This year’s convention was notable for its innovative hybrid format. For the first time, plenary sessions were offered both in-person and via live-stream. The program was also designed to be more condensed and streamlined, allowing delegates to focus directly on the most pressing organizational priorities and the key issues facing Chinese American communities.

The opening day began with welcoming remarks and National Committee Reports. Delegates heard from Lodges in multiple reporting sessions, and nominations for National Officers were introduced.

A highlight of the first day was the presentation by Past National President Ed Gor, who provided an update on the Chinese American World War II Veterans Recognition Project. The day ended with an in memoriam video tribute (see PDF version), honoring those who have passed. Attendees then gathered for dinner at Lai Hong Lounge before Resolution Committee meetings convened as needed.

Day 2 focused on the heart of convention business: reviewing and voting on submitted resolutions. Delegates successfully completed discussion and disposition of all resolutions. Final versions are posted on the Advocacy & Policy page of the National website. 

The day included statements from candidates for contested National offices and featured a special address by Norman Wong, the great-grandson of Wong Kim Ark, whose landmark Supreme Court case established the principle of birthright citizenship in the United States.

Members also enjoyed C.A.C.A. videos by filmmaker Ken Eng and an evening of camaraderie at the San Francisco Lodge-hosted BBQ steak dinner, followed by a “Chinatown After Dark” outing at Lion’s Den Bar and Lounge.

The final day opened with the close of eBallot voting, followed by a group photo and the announcement of election results. National Executive nominations, elections, and the swearing in of officers took place, along with bids for the next convention site.

The convention concluded with the Spirit of America Presentation and Closing Luncheon at McCormick and Kuleto’s in Ghirardelli Square. See the Convention Program Book for biographies of this year’s Spirit of America Award honorees Dr. Vivian Huang of Phoenix, AZ and Dr. Jian Zhang of San Francisco.

As the 58th National Biennial Convention ended, C.A.C.A. extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants. Whether attending in person or virtually, delegates contributed to the success of this important gathering through their energy, commitment, and vision.

Congratulations to the newly elected National Board officers, whose leadership will guide the Alliance into the future.

Special thanks are owed to the San Francisco Lodge and its many volunteers, whose hospitality and tireless efforts ensured that the convention ran smoothly. C.A.C.A. also acknowledges the generous contributions of donors, listed here.

A Google Photo Album has been created to capture convention memories. Members with additional photos are invited to share them with Cathy Lee at cathy.lee@cacanational.org.

The 58th Convention underscored the Alliance’s enduring mission: advancing civic engagement, civil rights, and community service. With a renewed spirit and strengthened fellowship, C.A.C.A. looks forward to carrying this momentum into the years ahead.

Resources

• 58th Biennial Convention Program Book

• 2025 Biennial Report

• List of Donors

• 2025 Resolutions

• In Memoriam

• Update on the Chinese American World War II Veterans Recognition Project

• 2025 Convention Google Photo Album

• 2025 CACA Convention on the World Journal

• APA Justice Newsletter announces Kin Hui as new C.A.C.A National President