By Victor Chen, bostonese.com
Boston, Dec. 16, 2014, — Chinese American Citizens Alliance (CACA) relaunched its Boston Lodge Charter and held Inauguration Gala in the evening of Dec. 13 at Hei La Moon restaurant in Boston Chinatown. Chinese Historical Society of New England (CHSNE) was honored at the Gala as their “2015 Community Organization of the Year.”
CACA National President Edmond J. Gor (2nd from left) and Esther Lee(3rd from left) accept a 1928 picture of old CACA Boston building as gift from Sherry Dong and Susan Chinsen (3rd and 2nd from right) of CHSNE.
During its long history over 100 years, the CACA alliance has fought against racial discrimination, defended civil rights, opposed anti-immigration movements and countered efforts to marginalize American Chinese culture and heritage. Each of the chartered lodges across the U.S. is dedicated to enhancing civic pride, supporting community services and promoting responsible citizenship.
CACA Boston Lodge was established in 1927. A number of people from the national organization were in town for this event including leaders from the Remembering 1882 Committee, Chinese Historical Society of Southern CA, and Miss America 1st runner-up and Miss Chinatown USA Crystal Lee.
“It was wonderful to have CHSNE board members in the room to meet some of the national figures in town for this occasion and celebrate the rare occasion we are being honored,” said Susan Chinsen, managing director of CHSNE.
Past CCBA-NE Presidents, including Michael Wong, Wilson Lee, Gilbert Ho, Rick Wong, YJ Leung and etc, attended the Gala. Esther Lee servers as the president of the Boston Lodge.
CHSNE board member Stephanie Fan was recognized by Wilson Lee in the Gala for her work in the community, such as leading the opposition toward a highway exit near the Ta Tung Village during the Central Artery project.
Xiaoyi Chen, who won four gold medals at Hong Kong Kung Fu competition, performed Tai Chi for about 200 guests. “It’s a great honor to perform at this occasion. Some guests asked if I would teach them, ” said Ms. Chen.
