Founded in 1973 to give voice and representation to Chinese Americans across the United States, OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates has evolved into a comprehensive civil rights movement headquartered in New York, NY. The organization emerged from grassroots advocacy efforts that began in the late 1960s, when community leaders recognized the need for a unified national organization to champion Chinese American interests in the same manner as the NAACP and JACL served their respective communities. What began as the Chinese American Leadership Council in Washington, DC, quickly expanded to include pioneering chapters in Detroit, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, and beyond. In 2013, OCA's National Board expanded its mission and adopted the name "OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates" to reflect its commitment to representing the pan-ethnic interests of all Asian Pacific Islander communities. The New York City-wide chapter carries forward this legacy of inclusive advocacy, serving residents through community-centered programs and relationship-building initiatives. OCA-NY's approach emphasizes partnership and shared values, welcoming anyone committed to advancing social, political, and economic justice. The organization's work encompasses hate crimes prevention, civic engagement, community health initiatives, and cultural celebration, reflecting a deep understanding of the diverse needs within New York's AAPI neighborhoods. Rooted in over 50 years of civil rights advocacy, OCA-NY continues honoring its founding principles while adapting to contemporary challenges facing Asian Pacific American communities.
New York, NY