10.18.2023 2023 Gold Lantern Awards "An Evening to Inspire"

What a night! The Chinese American Museum DC's Third Gold Lantern Awards, held for the first time on Friday at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, was truly "An Evening to Inspire." It was a golden opportunity to celebrate diverse Chinese Americans for their outstanding accomplishments, leadership, service, and indelible American spirit.

The Kennedy Center's Terrace Theater glowed with the warm lights and ambience of a full house that included distinguished guests from ambassadors to elected officials and community leaders.

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Global cultural ambassador Yue-Sai Kan, and world-renowned forensic scientist Dr. Henry Lee shone their light on all of us and inspired us with their life achievements. We could hear a pin drop as Ginger Huang Dietrich read the words of honoree, author, activist and poet Maxine Hong Kingston from her book "I Love a Broad Margin to My Life."

Community Honoree Larry La captured his refugee immigrant story from Vietnam as a "boat person" in his remarks. They reflected on some of our own experiences as immigrants to America one way or another. Honoree Bel Leong-Hong encouraged us to "pay it forward" and inspire young people to carry the torch for all of us. And we will not forget the heroic story of student hero Peter Wang.

The evening's performers dazzled the audience with traditional and contemporary sets from choral and dance performances to pianist Liu Hao and the modern tones of the Bryan Eng Sextet.

The Gold Lantern Awards, in the words of an audience member, "made everyone feel upbeat and proud, regardless of their heritage. Thank you for showcasing great American leadership, achievement, and talent!"

We are only beginning to tell the Chinese American story. There is much work ahead as we develop more permanent exhibits and programs in the next critical phase of the museum's development.

Please consider donating to CAMDC's Third Anniversary Campaign. Your contribution, at any level, helps to move us forward.