The Chinese Progressive Caucus (CPC) and SinCG Data Information Station jointly released a report titled “Memory and Action: Inter-Generational Study of Political Attitudes in the New York City Chinese Community” on June 15. The two organizations conducted in-depth research in three major Chinese communities in Brooklyn Sunset Park, Manhattan Chinatown, and Flushing, Queens, and found a phenomenon where “family members sitting at the same table have two different political worlds.” This conclusion challenges the stereotype of “political apathy” among the Chinese community.
The report points out that Chinese voters are not simply divided between the Democratic and Republican parties but are deeply trapped in an “information isolation” dilemma. The older generation mainly relies on WeChat, traditional Chinese media, and personal networks to obtain information, while the younger generation is immersed in English-language social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit. Different sources of information lead to significantly different narrative frameworks on the same events between the two generations.
The report reveals that many first-generation immigrants, influenced by memories of turmoil, control in their homeland, or lack of opportunities, highly value the economic opportunities and social stability that the United States provides. They tend to emphasize “personal responsibility” and “moral order.” Therefore, when facing deteriorating community safety, the older generation tends to support stricter law enforcement. Many elders are cautious in publicly criticizing the U.S. government, believing it goes against the original intentions of their immigration.
The report also indicates that native-born Americans or young immigrants approach issues from the perspectives of “systemic discrimination” and “human rights.” Despite sharing concerns about their parents’ safety, they tend to attribute violent events to macro-political issues such as guns, homelessness, and mental health. The report specifically mentions that the Israel-Palestine conflict has become a “defining political moment” for many young people, reinforcing their criticism of U.S. policies and foreign affairs.
Regarding immigration law enforcement issues, the elderly mostly believe in “obeying the law is nothing to fear,” while young people emphasize the existence of “racially biased law enforcement.” Elders often caution their children to avoid participating in protests to protect family stability, while young people view silence as a hindrance to advocating for community rights.
Despite differing viewpoints, the report found that both generations are highly united in their dissatisfaction with current elected officials. Many feel compelled to “compromise among unsatisfactory options” and question whether politicians prioritize votes over the actual needs of the Chinese community, such as small landlord rights, livelihood under high inflation, and elder care. Wayne Ho, President of the CPC, stated, “Chinese families sit at the same table, yet receive different versions of American politics. Effective community engagement requires respecting the diverse ecosystem created by historical memories and generational differences, rather than using a singular message, language, or platform.”
Observers believe this report provides essential insights for the political landscape in New York City and across the United States. Firstly, it alerts both political parties and candidates that Chinese voters are not a monolithic voting bloc. If major parties continue to overlook the intergenerational gap within Chinese families and try to narrate with a single manifesto or slogan, it will be difficult to gain genuine support from Chinese voters.