The 72nd Overseas Chinese Day is celebrated by all walks of life in Southern California.

On October 20, the United Chinese Associations of the Southwest U.S. held the 72nd “Overseas Chinese Festival Conference” in Chinatown to celebrate the Double Tenth National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) as it marks its 113th year. The event drew numerous overseas Chinese leaders and community members who gathered in support of the occasion. The organizers emphasized the contributions and support of overseas Chinese in advancing Taiwan’s freedom, democracy, and prosperity.

During his speech, Wen Guanghua, the director of the Southwest U.S. office of the Overseas Chinese Association, expressed gratitude for the long-standing support of the overseas Chinese community toward the development of the Republic of China. He noted that whether in the spirit of national salvation, nation-building, or promoting Taiwan’s economic growth, the overseas Chinese have consistently stood in solidarity with the ROC.

Wen highlighted four critical roles that Taiwan is poised to play in the international arena: as a leader in technological innovation (AI), a defender of regional order and democratic values, a promoter of cross-strait peace and stability, and a contributor to global humanitarian efforts. He urged the overseas Chinese to remain steadfast in their support for the ROC and stressed the significant role that the overseas Chinese community plays in the nation’s historical development. Furthermore, he expressed hope that the descendants of the overseas Chinese would actively integrate into mainstream society and become strong advocates for the ROC. “The younger generation must not only embrace their cultural identity but also serve as a bridge connecting Taiwan and the U.S.,” he stated.

Chen Minyong, the director of the Los Angeles Chinese Center, elaborated on four pivotal phases of overseas Chinese contributions to the nation. He pointed out the first phase, where overseas Chinese supported Sun Yat-sen in overthrowing the Qing Dynasty to establish the Republic of China. The second phase involved support during the eight years of the War of Resistance against Japan through various means. The third phase was marked by efforts to promote Taiwan’s freedom and democratic development, establishing it as a vital part of the region’s free democratic values. The fourth phase is evident in the immediate assistance overseas Chinese offer whenever Taiwan faces natural disasters or significant challenges, showcasing their selfless spirit of dedication. Chen emphasized, “These four phases vividly illustrate the critical status of overseas Chinese in the history of the Republic of China; regardless of how times change, these contributions cannot be erased.”

Among those in attendance were key leaders like Li Jinsheng, chairman of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, senior advisor Ma Peidao, Zhang Zihao from the Pan-American Chinese Association, Commissioner Liao Meihua from the Overseas Community Affairs Council, and Yang Zhenan, president of the Southern California Veterans Association. Each guest took turns speaking, reaffirming the determination of overseas Chinese to support the Republic of China and wishing a prosperous future for their fellow compatriots.