Organization of Chinese Americans Asian Pacific American Advocates St. Louis
About Organization of Chinese Americans Asian Pacific American Advocates St. Louis
Founded in 1973 from the kitchen of esteemed Chinese American leaders Dr. William and Mrs. Anne Tao, OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates has grown from humble beginnings in early St. Louis into a vital civil rights organization serving the Chesterfield, MO region and beyond. What began as a small group's response to issues affecting Chinese and Asian Americans has transformed into a national movement with over 60 chapters across the country, united by a shared commitment to advancing the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of Asian Pacific Americans. The organization's strength lies in its community-centered approach: volunteers across all chapters dedicate themselves to fostering understanding through art exhibits, cultural events, and collaborative partnerships with corporations, agencies, and fellow cultural organizations. OCA's vision emphasizes building common ground and deeper relationships throughout St. Louis, recognizing that meaningful change emerges from authentic community connection. The organization takes a principled stance focused exclusively on protecting the rights of Asian Pacific Americans within the United States, deliberately avoiding collective positions on foreign politics to maintain its focus on domestic advocacy. Throughout challenges including the pandemic, OCA persisted in its core missions—raising awareness about hate crimes, empowering youth leadership and professional women, serving underserved communities, and defending voting rights. Today, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, OCA remains grounded in its original mission while expanding outreach through rebranded initiatives that honor the legacy of its founders. The organization serves as a vital connector between Asian Pacific American communities and institutions, ensuring that diverse voices are heard, valued, and empowered in civic and cultural spaces throughout the St. Louis area.