Achieving its 79th year of existence, making it just one year younger than the Department of Veterans
Affairs, Cathay Post #384 has continuously advocated for Chinese-American veterans and their families, demanding equal treatment and recognition in the Armed Forces. Their mission for all these years has been to draw attention to Chinese American patriotism, sacrifice, and integrity to empower ethnically diverse servicemen and women, and the Chinese-American community as a whole. Developed during the introduction of the G.I. Bill to promote education and provide opportunities to bring soldier’s wives and children from China to America, Cathay Post has traditionally focused on the well-being of youth and their families in the community. It’s primary goals are focused on erecting three institutions: the First Chinese American Veteran’s Museum, permanent affordable housing, and a youth program.

The museum will educate the public and younger generations so that the true feelings and experiences of these wartime soldiers and heroes, serving as far back as the Civil War, to the current War on Terror, will not be forgotten. As they campaign to win a prime space in the War Memorial Veteran’s Building, Cathay Post #384 is seeking volunteers and financial contributions to make sure that their main effort to increase visibility and understanding happens. The non-profit, non-political Veterans organization intends for the museum to also teach visitors from around the nation and the world about the horrors of war.

This year, for the first time the Asian Heritage Street Celebration is pleased to be partnering with Cathay Post to host the Mah Jong Area, a new feature to the fair. Last October, they partnered with the AsianWeek Foundation to host a community Mah Jong night and raise awareness for hepatitis B, which affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders.

“Cathay Post is participating in the Asian Heritage Street Celebration because Chinese American Veterans should continue to be recognized and never forgotten by the community,” said Cathay Post First Commander Ron Lee. “Cathay Post will be hosting the MJ section to show how it is a great pastime for many seniors in our community.”

www.chineseamericanveterans.org

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