Letter from the Editor: 50 Years of OCA
By Socheata Sun
WELCOME TO OCA’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF IMAGE MAGAZINE, which has been a tool for the voice of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community in the United States. For over four decades, this annual magazine has showcased the work of AANHPI photographers, artists, writers, and commentators who celebrate, challenge, and inspire their diverse cultures and identities.
IMAGE began its journey in 1977 as a humble newsletter for the Organization of Chinese Americans (OCA), a national advocacy group headquartered in Washington, D.C. Now, it has blossomed into a dynamic publication that captures the aspirations, challenges, and triumphs of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI).
This edition’s focus is on the concept of “Community.” As defined by Merriam-Webster, a community is “a unified body of individuals,” highlighting the essential nature of unity and solidarity. It’s the collective strength of individuals, united as a community, that forms an influential catalyst for progress and positive transformation.
For the past 50 years, OCA has been a place where AANHPI individuals have come together to form a community. What started as a grassroots movement to create a unified voice for Chinese Americans in the civil rights movement has grown into a national organization that advocates for the rights and interests of all Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. OCA has been empowering and inspiring AANHPIs to pursue their dreams and contribute to society through its programs, events, and campaigns.
In this edition, you will find stories and features that highlight the history, achievements, and challenges of the OCA and the AANHPI community. You will also learn about the current issues and opportunities that face the AANHPI community, and how OCA is working to address them. You will also discover the rich and diverse cultural expressions of the AANHPI community, and how they enrich the American society.
We hope that this edition of IMAGE will inform, educate, and inspire you. We also hope that it will encourage you to join us in our mission to advance the social, political, and economic well-being of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
Thank you for your support and interest in IMAGE Magazine and OCA.
To receive future print editions of IMAGE, visit ocanational.org/membership.
If you would like your work to be considered for publication or learn about advertising opportunities, please contact socheata.sun@ocanational.org.