PROGRAMS

Advocacy & Policy

The Chinese American Citizens Alliance (CACA) plays a crucial role in advancing the rights and visibility of Chinese Americans by advocating against discrimination and systemic biases, ensuring a voice in equity and justice issues. CACA focuses on key policy areas like immigration reform and anti-Asian hate legislation, influencing laws that directly affect the community. Through ongoing advocacy, CACA also fosters political awareness and participation, encouraging a new generation to engage in civic leadership and contribute to policies that support the community's growth and prosperity.

Legislative Education Program

The purpose of the Legislative Education Program (LEP) is to create a team of C.A.C.A. members who are ready to effectively communicate our interest with Congress in Washington, DC.

For many years, the Chinese American Citizens Alliance National Board invited members to Washington, DC. to inform and educate US legislators on issues and legislation that impacted the Chinese American community.  The success of the LEP was evident with the highly successful effort in 2017 through 2018 by the C.A.C.A. to gain Congressional support to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Chinese American Veterans of World War II.

During COVID, this program was put on hiatus. In 2024, National Vice President for Civic and Public Affairs, Rick Eng revitalized the program. Recognizing the need to create a larger pool of members to draw on to communicate with Congress, NVP Eng expanded the program opportunities to local lodge members and especially college aged members.

The C.A.C.A. will continue the LEP to develop a rich team to help educate Congress of our issues and concerns.  Using the National LEP model, C.A.C.A. plans work with local lodges nationwide to create local LEPs that will focus on interactions with State Legislatures.

Education

The Chinese American Citizens Alliance (C.A.C.A.) education program is dedicated to cultivating young minds and fostering a deep appreciation for Chinese American history, heritage, and contributions. Through diverse programs, C.A.C.A. provides opportunities for students and others to engage in creative and intellectual growth, advocating for a well-rounded understanding of Chinese American identity and history. These programs include the National Essay Contest, the National Art Contest, and the National Internship Program.

Historical Preservation

The Chinese American Citizens Alliance (C.A.C.A.) Historical Preservation Program is dedicated to safeguarding the rich and diverse legacy of Chinese American history. This initiative focuses on identifying, preserving, and promoting significant sites, communities, and documentation that highlight the contributions and resilience of Chinese Americans throughout history. By protecting these vital links to the past, the program ensures that the stories of triumph, struggle, and cultural heritage endure for future generations, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Chinese American contributions to our nation’s history.

Spirit of America Award

First presented at the 47th National Convention in 2003, the Spirit of America Awards (“Awards”) recognize individuals who embody the indomitable spirit of our nation and whose achievements have improved the lives not just of Chinese Americans but of all our fellow countrymen. The recognition of these achievements serves to inspire us all.

Chinese American WWII Veterans Congressional Gold Medal

The Chinese American WWII Veterans Recognition Project is dedicated to honoring the courage, sacrifice, and achievements of Chinese Americans who served in World War II. Through advocacy, education, and preservation, we celebrate the legacy of the 'greatest generation' and ensure their contributions are remembered for generations to come.