OCA Sacramento’s Dragon Boat Festival Celebration Dinner

On Saturday, May 5, 2012, OCA Sacramento held its annual Dragon Boat Festival Celebration Dinner at the Doubletree Hotel. OCA has long celebrated this traditional holiday, also known as the Double Fifth (fifth day of the 5th lunar month) which has been deeply rooted in Chinese culture. The festival is a time to reflect on the importance of loyalty and commitment to the community. And a time to celebrate our Asian heritage and honor distinguished community leaders. 

More than 300 attendees were present to witness as members of the community were awarded for their advocacy of civil rights, social justice and dedicated service to the API community. Among those being honored were Asian Resources Inc., Chevo Ramirez of Wells Fargo, Steve Yee and Carlota Gutierrez. APAPA is proud to support OCA and attend this important civic event.

Also recognized that evening were winners of OCA Sacramento’s Youth Essay Writing Contest. Applicants from 5 to 18 years of age participated in the contest by submitting a set number of words on the topic, “How have the contribution of immigrants help shape California and the United States?” The essay portion of the evening’s program was presented by County Board Supervisor Jimmie Yee. The event was attended by many elected officials, including Congress member Dan Lungren, Assembly members Mariko Yamada and Dr. Richard Pan, and Sacramento City School Board member Darrel Woo.

Established in 1973 as the Organization of Chinese Americans, OCA is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization for community advocacy. The OCA Sacramento Chapter is one of 88 chapters and college affiliates that strives to develop strong leadership, community involvement and civic participation. Additional information about OCA Sacramento can be found on their website at www.ocasacramento.org. 

Photos of this event are in the APAPA Gallery: www.apapagallery.org. Thanks to Danny Lee for attending and taking photos.