Embracing the Hopes and Aspirations of Asian Pacific Americans
Why is OCA important?
As an Asian in the United States, living in the United States will inevitably encounter some injustices. For these injustices, OCA is an organization that speaks for us. For example, immigration, education, voting rights, racial equality and inclusion, civic participation, the census, workforce development, and technology are all included in the program of OCA.
The history of OCA with the purpose of the organization?
OCA, formerly known as the Organization of Chinese Americans, was founded in 1973. Its goal is to unite Chinese Americans across the United States into a representative voice. Today, OCA has transformed into a national organization dedicated to promoting the social, political, and economic well-being of Asia Pacific Americans in the United States.
Founded in 1995, the greater Seattle chapter has served the greater Seattle Chinese and Asian Pacific American communities and other communities in the Pacific Northwest since then. It is recognized in local communities for advocating citizenship and voting rights and sponsoring community activities and events.
Whom OCA serve? Programs offered?
OCA primarily serves Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). OCA provides many programs to AAPI such as :
- To maintain America’s heritage as a place of refuge and equality, help with AAPI visa applications, protect family immigrants, and provide citizenship.
- Let the public and private education systems give AAPI equal rights as the others in the curriculum.
- With the recent alarming increase in hate crimes/incidents against AAPI, OCA’s policies help eliminate and combat hate speech, xenophobia, Islamophobia, and all forms of discrimination.
- Let AAPIs of all ages and locations should have equal access to technology and inclusive workforce development and career development opportunities.
What could they do better?
For OCA’s activities, there can be more real-life examples on the website, so that everyone can know how OCA has their influence in our lives. And can cooperate with more universities, these years students are very interested in organizing and participating in social issues, which have great influence for students, and expanding publicity can make the goal better achieved.
Was information about the organization accessible?
Yes, the information is on the Organization of Chinese Americans, or you can search the OCA on google for more information.
What other organizations are doing similar work?
Other similar organizations that do similar work:
- AAPI Organizing Coalition Against Hate and Bias aka AAPI Against Hate. Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Against Hate and Bias is a coalition of non-profits, community leaders, individuals, and young scholars combating hate and bias targeting the AAPI communities.
- Asian American Organizing Project (AAOP). AAOP is committed to advancing the AAPI community through grassroots organizing with a comprehensive approach to addressing AAPI barriers and issues.
- APACEvotes. APACEvotes strives to increase access and participation in electoral and civic affairs by registering, educating and protecting APIA voters.
