Gaithersburg, Maryland–The 38th OCA-DC Annual Awards Gala, held on December 4, had a festive holiday air as a packed crowd celebrated three honorees and the year’s achievements. Speakers and honorees also focused on 2012 goals.

OCA-DC, as part of the 1882 Project, played a major role in the Senate passage of S. 201 on October 7 last year. The Senate resolution acknowledged the injustice of the Chinese Exclusion Laws.

It also reaffirmed the commitment of the U.S. Congress to protect the civil rights of all persons, regardless of race. This is crucial in the nation’s current climate.

OCA-DC members also helped in fundraising efforts for tsunami victims in Japan. Prof. Larry Shinagawa, University of Maryland Asia Studies Center director, galvanized the efforts by over 20 Asian American organizations. Visit www.OCA-DC.org for other achievements and goals.

Accepting the Leadership Award, 1882 Project Co-Chair Ted K. Gong asked those present to urge lawmakers to support H.R. 282, companion bill to S. 201. He said, “My challenge to you is to tell your representative that the resolution is important, and must be moved out of the committee.” H.R. 282 was introduced on May 26, 2011 by U.S. Representatives Judy Chu (D-CA) and Judy Biggert (R-IL).

Shinagawa introduced Ted Gong, who graciously shared the award with “those in the audience.” The 1882 Project “has always been a team effort,” he stressed, acknowledging Project Chair Michael Lin and other leaders.

Former OCA National President Ginny Gong introduced retired Major Kurt Chew-Een Lee, a war hero who received the Trailblazer Award. Lee led 500 Marines through a blizzard to save 8,000 more from certain capture during the Korean War.

“This victory helped change the way the country regards Asian Americans,” said OCA-DC Co-Presidents Stan Tsai and Jennifer Japp. The co-leaders gave the evening’s welcome remarks.

OCA-DC announced plans to work for Lee to receive a Congressional Gold Medal. Lee humbly told others he was grateful for this goal.

The Community Service Award was presented to Executive Director Edvin Chow of the Chinese Culture and Community Service Center (CCACC). Chow was honored for his “dedication and tireless efforts in serving the Chinese American community of Montgomery County, Maryland.”

Co-President Tsai introduced Chow, who outlined goals and strategies for CCAC and the community. He said the organization “should not be low-key or invisible in the community.” He also thanked his wife Szu-Hui Lu and sons Peter and Henry in the audience for their love and support.

Maryland officials and other Asian American leaders were among the guests. The event took place at its usual venue, the New Fortune Restaurant. Gala emcees were Mary Tom and former OCA-DC Co-President Stan Lou. Jim McCallum received Special Recognition and also announced the winners of the silent auction. Proceeds will support OCA-DC’s student scholarship program.