Hello! I am Denise Chan. I am extremely humbled to be elected the president of the New England Chapter of the OCA- Asian Pacific American Advocates. I am deeply grateful to my predecessor, Kevin Luke for his service and commitment to the chapter. I am especially indebted to George Y. Cha for his mentorship, his everlasting dedication to the local chapter and his contributions to the national organization. More than 10 years ago, through his support, I joined the organization formerly known as the Organization of Chinese Americans.

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Today, I am incredibly honored to be serving alongside a group of caring, dedicated and committed leaders from our state. I want to welcome the new Executive board that consists of four esteemed individuals: Vice president Jason Chan, Treasurer Anna Ing, Secretary Kyle Luke and Immediate Past President Kevin Luke.  I look forward to working collectively with this amazing group of leaders to form a strong vision in advancing the mission of our chapter.

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In these uncertain times, we need the support from our community partners, volunteers, youth, and leaders to address pressing issues challenging our local communities. We have a lot of work to do. Several projects we are planning include:

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Anti- Asian Hate Crime Initiative
With the staunch rise in Anti-Asian hate crimes, racism and violence, as leaders we are tasked upon the duty to strongly advocate for our fellow citizens. Through education, workshops, conversations and collaborations we will work to dispel racist misconceptions that dangerously impact the most vulnerable members of our communities. 

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The Mentorship Program
In the chapter’s continued effort to support the success of the next generation of Asian American Pacific Islander students; we plan to launch a youth mentoring program. Whether the rise of bullying of AAPI students among the student population is due to the Covid-19 pandemic, xenophobia or pure scapegoating, arming our students, families and schools with the proper response and prevention is crucial. Our program will give students the knowledge and resources to deal with Anti-Asian hate and racism, while building meaningful relationships with their mentors and mentees. 

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The Assunta and George Y. Cha Scholarship
We will remain steadfast in our chapter’s belief that the road to empowerment is achieved through the promotion of education and solidarity. We plan to establish a student scholarship fund named after our past presidents Assunta and  George Y. Cha.

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During these unprecedented times, I hope you are asking how you can get involved. Consider the following:

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Volunteer your time to help us build an anti-Asian workshop.
Participate in community meetings or events
Engage in legislative activities
Advocate with local leaders
Become a mentor to students

Ask for help from a mentor. 
Invest in a bright future and pledge to the Assunta and George Y. Cha Scholarship Fund

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I ask you to join us in our endeavor. Please contact us at ocaapaane@gmail.com or 857-216-7278. Additionally, take a moment to look through our newly launched website at www.ocaapaane.org which will strive to provide the most current content and resources.

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While I am deeply grateful for your trust to lead this organization, with your help, we will be able to impact many more lives. I look forward to meeting and working with you.

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Thank you for your support!

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With thanks and appreciation,

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Denise Chan

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