New York Chinese Public Association Chairman Tony Chuy passed away on January 28 at the age of 73. Throughout his life, Chuy was involved in various fields including military, law enforcement, overseas Chinese communities, and martial arts education, quietly dedicating himself to community affairs.
Originally from Nanhai, Guangdong Province, Chuy was born in Hong Kong and moved to the United States with his family in the late 1960s. He had an early aspiration to serve society. During the Vietnam War, he served in the U.S. Navy, stationed with the Seventh Fleet in Southeast Asia for three years. After retiring, he continued to serve in the reserves for 21 years and served in the Persian Gulf War in 1980, demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility to his country and society. He later served as the president of the New York Chinese American Veterans Association and the president of the New York Sanshui Association, earning respect in the overseas Chinese and veteran communities.
After retiring from the military, Chuy joined the New York City Department of Correction. He was elected as the president of the Asian Jade Society within the Department three times and served as the president of the Asian American Federal Law Enforcement Association (SCALE) from 2005 to 2006, becoming the first Chinese martial arts instructor in the organization’s 115-year history.
In the cultural and educational fields, Chuy made significant contributions. In 1982, he founded the “Tony Chuy Praying Mantis Martial Arts Academy” and taught traditional Chinese martial arts in Manhattan for over forty years, dedicated to promoting martial virtues and Chinese culture. His students, numbering over two thousand, both domestic and foreign, have participated in more than six hundred martial arts and lion dance performances over the years, becoming pillars of the Chinatown cultural activities.
During the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2021, amid a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes, Chuy, with the support of the New York Chinese Public Association and the American Chinese Veterans Association of New York, held free self-defense classes to assist community residents in enhancing their safety awareness, rebuilding confidence, and contributing to society through practical actions in promoting community safety.
Since assuming the role of Chairman of the Chinese Public Association in May 2024, Chuy prioritized “stability first” as the main focus of his administration, striving to maintain the normal operation of the organization, ceremonies, and administrative tasks. Simultaneously, he continued the traditional role of the Chinese Public Association, representing the overseas Chinese community at events and addressing community affairs.
The Chinese Public Association stated that Chuy dedicated his life to safeguarding the spirit of the organization and the community, especially in critical moments where he fearlessly took responsibility. He was known for his integrity, diligence, and sense of responsibility, leaving a profound impact in the overseas Chinese community, martial arts world, and law enforcement system.
The Chinese Public Association announced that they are in contact with Chairman Chuy’s family to discuss post-funeral arrangements. Once details are confirmed, they will make a separate announcement.