Rain or Shine: ACAESUSA Celebrates July 4 with Spirit and Unity
Dallas, TX — July 4, 2025
Early on Independence Day morning, steady rain failed to dampen the patriotic spirit of the Asian American community, as members of the Asian Culture and Education Society USA (ACAESUSA) proudly participated in the Pack Cities 4th of July Parade. Their rallying cry—"Small Team, Big Spirit"—came to life through vibrant teamwork and heartfelt celebration.
The multigenerational ACAESUSA team, composed primarily of youth from chapters across the country, brought remarkable energy and unity to the event. ACAESUSA Advisory Board Member and SMU Professor Dr. Zhihao Wu led the procession by driving the decorated float through the rain. Behind the scenes, silver-haired volunteers provided steadfast support—preparing water and parade gifts for the youth to distribute. Adult team members marched alongside the float, while the youngest participants joyfully tossed candy and small gifts to the cheering crowd.
Even under gray skies, the sight of American flags waving in the rain, paired with the team’s beaming smiles, painted a heartwarming portrait of community pride and celebration.
Chapter Contributions:
ACAES-YFF (Youth FusionForge), led by President Julian Liu, and ACAES-YHP (Youth Highland Park) proudly walked the parade route.
ACAES-YF (Youth Frisco), led by President Chenrui Mi, and ACAES-YTH (Youth Tokyo Harbor), led by President Diana X. Chen, coordinated float assembly and logistics.
ACAES-YSI (Youth STEAM Innovators), led by President Mai Bai, hosted a fundraising silent auction to support the event.
ACAES-YM (Youth Minneapolis) generously sponsored parade giveaways.
ACAES-YF (Youth Frisco) also provided team uniforms for all participants.
“We weren’t the largest team, but we were certainly the most spirited!”
— Julian Liu, President of ACAES-YFF
This year’s celebration was more than tradition—it was a vibrant display of how Asian American families integrate into and enrich their communities. Interactive elements like the beloved candy toss brought smiles to faces of all ages and backgrounds, fostering cross-cultural connections and shared joy.
ACAESUSA President Jan Xie shared her gratitude:
“Our volunteer team showed extraordinary strength and dedication. We deeply thank our silver-haired volunteers, including Shengji Wu and Shixiang Zhou, for their invaluable support. The commitment of our youth and volunteers across the country fills us with pride. Special thanks to ACAES-YFF’s Julian Liu and Anya Liu, ACAES-YHP’s Amelia Peng, Shingling Du, Shenghe Du, and Catherine Wu. As we look ahead, we’re excited to expand partnerships with diverse cultural communities and warmly invite everyone to join us in future events.”
(ACAES-YFF Julian Liu, Anya Liu, ACAES-YHP Amelia Peng, Shingling Du, Shenghe Du, Catherine Wu)
