Chinese Professionals in Virginia

Founded in 1998 by a dedicated group of legal pioneers including the Hon. Gerald B. Lee and prominent members of the Fairfax Bar Association, the Asian Pacific American Bar Association of Virginia represents a unique commitment to recognizing the changing faces of Virginia's legal community. Based in McLean, VA, APABA-VA was established with a vision to ensure that the Commonwealth would benefit from having Asian Pacific American lawyers and their allies come together to advocate for their community and promote justice. The organization operates as a diverse, non-partisan association that welcomes attorneys, law students, judges, and those interested in matters affecting the Asian Pacific American legal community, regardless of their own heritage. What distinguishes APABA-VA is its inclusive philosophy: membership is open to anyone engaged in the study, teaching, or practice of law who shares a commitment to improving the lives of all Virginians, particularly those within the Asian Pacific American community. This approach has fostered a supportive network of legal professionals, law firms, and community partners who have sustained the association's ideals for over two decades. APABA-VA's mission centers on fostering professional development, advancing legal scholarship, encouraging advocacy, and promoting community involvement that elevates both the Asian Pacific American legal profession and the broader Virginia legal landscape. By joining APABA-VA, members automatically become part of NAPABA's network of over 40,000 Asian Pacific American attorneys, connecting local Virginia practitioners with a national movement dedicated to diversity, equality, and opportunity in the legal profession.

Since its founding in 1977 by visionary women including Pauline Tsui and Ambassador Julia Chang Bloch, the Organization of Chinese American Women has grown into a respected national movement serving communities throughout Virginia and across the country. What began as a simple conversation over tea has evolved into a powerful network of dedicated Chinese American women committed to advancing equality and empowerment. OCAW's 45-year journey reflects the organization's unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for women of all ages and backgrounds. The organization is rooted in the belief that as individuals they have strength, but as a team they are stronger. Members enjoy deep fellowship and support from a community of Asian American women who share common values and aspirations. OCAW recognizes the remarkable contributions and histories of Asian Pacific Americans, particularly women whose voices and achievements often go unheard. The organization's impact extends beyond advocacy—through good works and volunteerism, OCAW members have touched countless lives and strengthened their communities. Based in the Oakton, Virginia area, OCAW maintains a grassroots approach while operating at the national level, with chapters serving as vital connection points for women seeking community, purpose, and the opportunity to make a difference. The organization welcomes volunteers and members who believe in empowering women and creating a world where every woman has the chance to reach her full potential.

Since its founding in 1977, the Organization of Chinese American Women has grown into a national movement of dedicated women committed to creating meaningful change in their communities and beyond. What began as a vision shared over tea between Pauline Tsui and Ambassador Julia Chang Bloch has evolved into a thriving organization with chapters serving communities across the country, including a strong presence in Oakton, Virginia. OCAW brings together accomplished Chinese American and Asian Pacific American women, many of whom have served in government administrations and leadership roles, combining their talents, imagination, and skills to address America's most pressing challenges. The organization's members exemplify leadership through volunteerism and community service, touching countless lives through their good works and dedication to empowerment. OCAW's mission centers on advancing the needs and concerns of Chinese and Asian Pacific American women by creating pathways to educational, economic, social, and political opportunity. The organization operates as a nonpartisan, nonprofit community built on the principle that individually we are strong, but as a team we are stronger. Members enjoy fellowship, support, and access to programs from both the national office and local chapters, creating a network of women committed to breaking down barriers and empowering women of all ages and backgrounds to reach their full potential. OCAW remains open to all who share this vision of liberty, equality, and opportunity.