Los Angeles, November 10, 2025 – The Taiwan Center in Los Angeles held its 27th annual meeting and fundraising dinner on the evening of November 8th (Saturday) at the Pacific Palms Resort in City of Industry. The theme of this year’s event was “Building Dreams Solidly, Carrying on the Tradition,” attracting nearly five hundred people from all walks of life. The event aimed not only to raise funds for the $20 million reconstruction project of the center but also marked a new milestone in the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Taiwanese American community.
Chairman of the Taiwan Center, Tian Tzu-hung, expressed that the center has been a “spiritual stronghold” for uniting the strength of Taiwanese people in Southern California for many years. He humorously remarked, “The rebuilding is finally no longer a ‘cry wolf’ situation!”
Since the start of the reconstruction project in 2018, a total of $15 million has been raised, leaving only $5 million to reach the final goal of $20 million. The reconstruction project held a groundbreaking ceremony in May this year and completed the demolition of the old building in August. The new center is expected to become a cultural landmark and generational heritage center for the Taiwanese American community.
After years of setbacks and challenges, the reconstruction project has officially begun. Tian Tzu-hung mentioned that many Taiwanese Americans have once again responded actively and generously, making him feel grateful and touched.
There are currently seven Taiwan centers built by Taiwanese Americans in North America, reflecting the deep affection and connection of the diaspora to Taiwan. Tian Tzu-hung emphasized that the reconstruction of the Taiwan Center in Los Angeles is not only a shared dream of the community but also aims to harness more power from overseas Taiwanese to create a place of unity for the second and third generations.
The annual meeting featured as keynote speakers former Mainland Affairs Council Ministers, National Security Council advisors, and former Minister of Justice, Chiu Tai-san, discussing “Observations and Reflections on Taiwan’s Democratic Development and International Situation.”
Chiu Tai-san reflected on his thirty-year political career, emphasizing that the key to Taiwan’s democratic transition lies in ending the state of mobilization and suppression, allowing the government to face the realities of cross-strait and international politics. He pointed out that despite a decrease in the number of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, democratic values and freedoms have been highly recognized internationally. “Taiwan’s political disputes have transitioned from the streets to the parliament, a significant symbol of a mature democracy.” He expressed gratitude to overseas compatriots for their long-term support, referring to them as the “government’s biggest pillar.”
In discussing Taiwan-US relations, Chiu Tai-san noted a significant shift in US policy towards Taiwan in the past decade, regardless of the Biden or Trump administration, recognizing Taiwan’s crucial role in the global supply chain and the AI era. He emphasized the importance of Taiwan maintaining a balanced interaction with both parties in the US to ensure the stability and continuity of Taiwan-US relations, regardless of the governing party.
President of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Lai Ching-te, Chairperson of the Overseas Community Affairs Council Hsu Chia-ching, and Chairperson of the Overseas Compatriot Affairs Commission, Ku Hsiu-fei, sent video messages to the annual meeting. Political figures and community leaders who attended the event included Federal Congresswoman Judy Chu and Brad Sherman, Sandra Armenta, Mayor of Rosemead City, Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles, Justin Kao, Director of the Los Angeles Overseas Community Affairs Council, Chin-yao Chi, and Deputy Director, Ching-yi Fang.
The annual meeting kicked off with a fashion show by the Taiwanese American Miss Team, followed by the presentation of the 2025 Annual Permanent Membership Certificates to recognize community members who have long supported the construction of the center. The program featured a variety of performances, including a dance by the 2025 Taiwanese American Miss First Princess, Chen Yu-han, a Hakka choir performance, and a flute solo by the 5th Princess, Yang Chien-lo. Fundraising activities included the sale of the “A Gift from the Heart” necklace personally designed by the Taiwanese American Miss Queen, Wang Yi-wen, symbolizing community love and unity.
Nearly $500,000 was raised by the end of the event, with keynote speaker Chiu Tai-san donating his speaking fee to the center. Chairman Tian Tzu-hung called on all sectors to continue their support and witness the completion of the new center, ensuring the spirit of “Building Dreams Solidly, Carrying on the Tradition” can perpetually extend.