The Taiwanese American Senior Association (TASA) in Southern California held a monthly birthday celebration on December 19th (Thursday) and ushered in Christmas early. Director Chen Min-yong, Deputy Director Fang Qiong-yi, and Deputy Consul General Tseng Yu-chi from the Los Angeles Consulate General attended the joyful event.
Chen Min-yong expressed that every time he attends the senior association, he feels a special warmth and happiness. The healthy and joyful lives of the seniors serve as an example for everyone. He hopes that members of the senior association will actively participate in community activities and encourages them to invite their relatives and grandchildren to Taiwan to participate in the “Overseas Youth English Service Camp.” This initiative allows Taiwanese-American youth in Los Angeles to become English teachers in Taiwan, not only enhancing the friendship between Taiwan and the U.S., but also helping young people accumulate life experiences and get to know Taiwan better.
The Taiwanese American Senior Association in Southern California was previously known as the “Southern California Taiwanese Elderly Association,” founded in 1979. At that time, most members spoke Japanese, and the association was located in the Little Tokyo area of downtown Los Angeles. The first president was Chen Meng-lan.
President Jiang Mei-juan of the senior association stated that currently, there are about three hundred active members, with over two thousand members at its peak. Former president Chen Jia recalled that after Taiwan withdrew from the United Nations in 1971, many Taiwanese people chose to immigrate to the United States. Upon arriving in Los Angeles with their children, many seniors began forming associations, integrating into American life, and introducing Taiwan to different ethnic groups. The senior association also has members from Japan, Shanghai, and other regions in China.
Jiang Mei-juan emphasized that the senior association is a warm big family, welcoming all elders to participate. In addition to the birthday celebration activities, everyone also participated in a group dance and exercise to promote health and enjoyment.