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Jan Xie

 

On September 14th and 15th, in celebration of the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival, the Mid-Autumn Food and Cultural Festival, hosted by the Tianli Cultural Foundation, took place at 99 Ranch Market with great festivity! The event featured activities such as riddles, raffles, food tastings, charity sales, and performances. The performances were scheduled for three sessions at 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM, and 5:30 PM, each packed with excitement and surprises!

Founded in 2017, the Tianli Cultural Foundation has been dedicated to serving the community and promoting Chinese culture. Its annual Mid-Autumn Food and Cultural Festival and Spring Festival Gala bring joy to the local Chinese community in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

This year’s festival was co-organized by 99 Ranch MarketZhang Chen Art SchoolXizi Guzheng Arts Center, and the Dallas Guzheng Association. 99 Ranch Market not only provided the venue but also offered generous cash cards worth $10, $100, $200, and $500.

The first performance was hosted by Tianle Tong, founder of the Tianli Cultural Foundation, along with Songmei. Tianle introduced the foundation and thanked the co-organizers for their support. She praised every participant and volunteer, whose collective efforts made the festival truly captivating. She then invited teachers Zhang Chen and Xizi to the stage to offer their Mid-Autumn blessings. Teacher Zhang wished everyone happiness and togetherness, while Teacher Xizi wished peace and joy for all.

The first performance was by the MaiZi Dance Troupe, founded in 2022. Their dance, Tang Yin, transported the audience to a beautiful scene reminiscent of ancient China. Little Ivy Liu then brought the song “My Homeland, the Sea,” evoking feelings of nostalgia for the homeland. With a beautiful voice and graceful stage presence, Ivy Liu, a silver medalist in the children’s group of the 2024 “Cultural China Water Cube Cup,” captivated the audience. Next, the Dallas Guzheng Association performed the ensemble “Crossing the Red Dust,” showcasing the beauty of traditional culture. Nine-year-old Anni Zhu from Star Light Studio performed a solo dance, “Flower in the Flute,” portraying a playful girl with her beloved flute. Sisters Wenya Hu and Anya Hu from Zhang Chen Art School sang “Blank Space,” delivering a harmonious and lively performance. Veteran magician Xiyun Yang wowed the audience with his incredible tricks and humor, earning thunderous applause. The first session concluded with a live calligraphy demonstration by teacher He Sanhe, who wrote festival blessings like “Full Moon” and “Happy Mid-Autumn,” much to the delight of the crowd.

The second session kicked off with a lively performance of “Marketplace” by the young students of Xizi Guzheng Arts Center. Multiple award-winners Kunlu Wang and Yintiao Yin from Zhang Chen Art School followed with their duet, “Stars and the Sea,” filling the room with positive energy. Kailie Poon from Liu Dan Dance Arts School performed the graceful dance, “Grass in the Water.” Special thanks were extended to Teacher Liu Dan for her support of community events. Friends Mia and Bella teamed up on piano and guzheng to perform the serene piece, “Big Fish,” evoking the purity of nature. Soloist Li Li from Zhang Chen Art School delivered an outstanding performance of “Left Hand Points to the Moon,” her soaring vocals captivating the audience. Regular community performer Weiping Lu brought blessings with his rendition of “The Moon on the Fifteenth.” Finally, sisters Izabella and Kayla from Xizi Guzheng Arts Center performed “The Call,” demonstrating their harmonious connection. The second session closed with the energetic guzheng duet “Fuxi Divine Sky Echo” by brothers Kevin and Keson, showcasing their incredible speed and skill.

The third session began with Bohan Xuan from Zhang Chen Art School, who won the gold medal in the children’s group of the Water Cube Cup in Dallas. He performed “Orchid Pavilion,” a song that captures the beauty of classical Chinese culture. The guzheng trio Keson, Kevin, and Keegan performed the powerful pieces “A Man Should Be Strong” and “Dreams of Sword and Saber,” filling the room with heroic spirit. Students Nuo Xuan Yang and Weili Lin, under the guidance of Teacher Zhang Chen, performed the duet “Shouldn’t Have,” beautifully conveying the sorrow of unrequited love. Students Mia Xiao and Xueru Luo from Xizi Guzheng Arts Center followed with the moving guzheng duet, “Yu Meiren,” presenting a timeless narrative. Summerly YinSarah Shi, and Jessalyn Wang from Xingji Dance Schoolperformed the enchanting dance “Dunhuang,” embodying the rebirth of ancient sculptures from the Dunhuang Caves. The third session host, Mingxia Qin, demonstrated her talents in singing, dancing, calligraphy, and painting. Accompanied by guzheng, she painted and wrote the phrase “Blossoms and Full Moon,” bringing the festival to a perfect close.

Over 500 people attended the two-day Mid-Autumn Food and Cultural Festival. The riddle activity attracted many families, with parents and children working together. Youth organizations like AYLUSYAAMHA, and the Asian Portrait Project participated, showcasing the talents of Asian youth. The food stalls were bustling, with handmade mooncakes being particularly popular. Saturday’s raffle awarded six $100 and two $200 cash cards, while Sunday’s prizes included one $500 card and ten $10 cards, all redeemable at 99 Ranch Market.

The 2024 Mid-Autumn Food and Cultural Festival, hosted by the Tianli Cultural Foundation and co-organized by 99 Ranch MarketZhang Chen Art SchoolXizi Guzheng Arts Center, and the Dallas Guzheng Association, concluded successfully. Thanks to all participants and volunteers! Wishing everyone a happy and prosperous Mid-Autumn Festival!

Jan Xie

The Asian American Unity Coalition (AAUC) hosted the 2024 National AANHPI Unity Summit, co-organized by ten organizations, including the Asian Culture and Education Society USA (ACAESUSA). This summit brought together community leaders, activists, and advocates to discuss significant issues faced by Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. Held in Washington, D.C., from September 19-20, 2024, the summit served as a powerful platform for advocating for community rights and addressing racial discrimination.

As part of the Unity Summit, on September 19th, a delegate group of 70 individuals attended a White House Briefing to discuss issues concerning our diverse communities, followed by a White House tour for 100 Summit attendees. In the afternoon, representatives of the DOJ met with and listened to our community voices at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, which was followed immediately by a youth session discussing racial bias in school and cross-cultural identities.Erika L. Moritsugu, Deputy Assistant to President Biden, conveyed the president’s congratulatory message during the summit’s welcome dinner, further adding significance to the event.

Jan Xie, President of ACAESUSA, delivered an emotional speech at the White House, calling on the community to unite against anti-Asian hate crimes. She expressed her vision for a society free of discrimination, stating, “I hope that through our collective efforts, we can build a society that stands against hate and all forms of discrimination.”

A highlight of the summit was the “World of Love” art exhibition and competition, organized by ACAESUSA, which was successfully held in the Capitol Hill conference. Jan Xie expressed her gratitude to Dr. SK.Lo, Chairman of the AAUC Board, UCA President Haipei Shue and United Chinese Americans Community Foundation Sharon for their support. The exhibition showcased the artistic talents of global artists, promoting cross-cultural understanding through the universal language of art. The proceeds from the exhibition will be used to raise funds for students with autism and mental health challenges, demonstrating the summit’s commitment to inclusivity and supporting vulnerable groups.

The summit also focused on youth empowerment. ACAESUSA organized a highly anticipated Youth Seminar, where young leaders from diverse backgrounds discussed pressing issues such as racial bias in schools and cross-cultural identity. Youth speakers included Shivya Vig and Katelyn Hu, representing ACAESUSA. Jan Xie praised the energy and courage of the young participants, and proposed that future youth seminars include more interactive workshops and mentorship opportunities. The distinguished guests included ACAESUSA Advisor and Filmmaker Chang Changfu, UCA President Haipei Shue, ACAESUSA’s representative Shiv Vig, and Kavita Sekhsaria from the Hindu American Foundation. In addition, the ACAESUSA team performed traditional songs like “Jasmine Flower” and a scene from the Henan opera Hua Mulan, adding cultural richness to the summit.

Other key parts of the summit included meetings with U.S. Congress members and representatives from the Department of Justice, where discussions centered on civil rights, immigration, and hate crime prevention. The ACAESUSA team brought forward suggestions to Senator from Texas, including introducing Asian American history education and repealing the outdated Alien Land Laws—both critical steps to advancing the civil rights of the AANHPI community.

Several distinguished individuals were honored during the summit for their contributions:

● US Rep. Judy Chu received the Political Leadership Award.

● US Rep. Andy Kim was given the Public Service Award.

● Suffolk County Police Asian Jade Society, SEWA-AIFW, Team Aids, and Elizabeth de Leon-Gamboa were honored with the Community Service Award.

● Mr. Evan Chen was recognized as Philanthropist of the Year.

● Ms. JencyMalena Mesik and Mr. Suraj Kulkarni received the President’s Young Person and Youth Awards, respectively.

At the conclusion of the summit, Jan Xie reflected on the spirit of unity showcased throughout the event, stating, “The themes of advocacy, civic engagement, and cross-cultural understanding resonated deeply.”

The following ACAESUSA parents and students were recognized during the 2024 AANHPI Unity Summit:

  • ACAESUSA 2024 Outstanding AANHPI Youth Leadership Award:
    • Amy Xu (ACAE- Youth HP Co-President)
    • Andrew Xu (ACAE-Youth Business President)
    • Keira Yang (ACAE-Youth DDYA President)
    • Katelyn Hu (ACAE-Youth Houston President)
    • Ebony Chen (ACAE-Youth Plano officer)
    • Esther Zhou (ACAE-Little Fat Ni BBQ President)
    • Diana X. Chen (ACAE-Youth Mental Health Co-President)
    • Samuel Wu (ACAE-Executive Director)
    • Jessica Wu (ACAE-Youth Leadership Council Chair)
    • Zichang (Lucy) Zeng (ACAE-Youth STEM President)
    • Shivalika Vig (ACAE-Youth Frisco Co-President)
    • Shivya Vig (ACAE-Youth Frisco Officer) 
    • Yihan Cheng (ACAE-Youth UCADFW Co-President)
    • Wanrong Cheng (ACAE-Youth STEM VP)
  • ACAESUSA 2024 Parent of the Year Award: Chuyan Bi, Li Qun, Dan Jiang, Rongmei Zhang, Annie Hu, Linglin Ye, Guiqiao Chen, Shiv Vig, Zhengang Cheng.

We also express our heartfelt appreciation to the “World of Love” art exhibition and competition committee members for their hard work and the beautiful art displayed. Additionally, we are deeply grateful for the support of the following organizations for our youth programs: AAUC, North Texas Chinese Cultural Promotion Association (NTCCPA), UCA WAVES, UCACF, DFW IT Association (DFWIT), Warburton Investment LLC, Seapot, and MT Jewelry Studio LLC.

Looking ahead to the 2025 summit, ACAESUSA remains committed to strengthening unity within the AANHPI community and continuing its role in youth engagement, cultural advocacy, and the fight against discrimination.

Jan Xie
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In a spirit of unity and cultural celebration, the Asian Culture And Education Society USA in Dallas, Texas recently marked the observance of both Black History Month and Lunar Chinese New Year with a series of heartwarming initiatives and festive events. The society's endeavors aimed not only to honor the diverse cultural heritage of its members but also to spread joy and inclusivity within the community.

As part of their celebrations, the Asian Culture And Education Society USA extended a hand of kindness to the special education children at a local elementary school. Members of the society prepared and distributed red envelopes filled with a delightful assortment of treats including pizzas, toys, goodies, and snacks, along with candies symbolizing the joy and prosperity associated with the Lunar Chinese New Year. This gesture of goodwill brought smiles to the faces of the children and demonstrated the society's commitment to fostering inclusivity and compassion.

The festivities culminated in an annual celebration party hosted by the Asian Culture And Education Society USA. The event served as a vibrant showcase of Asian culture and traditions, featuring a variety of performances and activities for the community to enjoy. Attendees were treated to mesmerizing displays of traditional music, dance, and theatrical performances, which highlighted the richness and diversity of Asian heritage. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared appreciation for cultural diversity.

Apart from the annual celebration party, the ACAESUSA's Youth Council  special performances for the wider community, actively participating in the events by volunteering and showcasing their talents. These performances were a means to bridge cultural gaps and foster cross-cultural understanding. Through music, dance, and various artistic expressions, the society endeavored to involve and enlighten the community about the beauty and significance of Asian culture.

During these events, we're deeply grateful for the help from Ni Hao, UCA, Gendap, Dallas City Library, the Dallas Police Department, Cesar Chavez Learning Center and TC-2 Mr.Gipson's class. We're truly fortunate to have their support.

Several awards were presented during the event, including the Inspirational ACAESUSA Mentor Award to Gendap President Mrs. Beverly Hill, and Mr. Jay Ho. The AAPI Media Excellence Award was bestowed upon Hojun Choi and Tiffany Liou, while the Inspirational AAPI Leader Award went to Yosselin Muller and Youth Volunteer and Youth Leadership Awards were presented to Eric Wang, Jessica Wu, Amy Xu and Harris Xie.

The Asian Culture And Education Society USA's celebration of Blank History Month and Lunar Chinese New Year exemplifies the power of community and cultural exchange. Through acts of kindness, festive gatherings, and vibrant performances, the society succeeded in spreading joy, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating the rich tapestry of Asian heritage. As the celebrations come to a close, the spirit of unity and cultural appreciation will continue to resonate within the community, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated.

Contact:

Jan XIe

President of  Asian Culture And Education Society USA

2148102718

janxie@acaesusa.org

 

 

Jan Xie

On February 3rd, 2024, the 2024 Year of The Dragon Lunar TCF New Year Gala wrapped up with resounding success. A multitude of spectators eagerly tuned in to witness the live performance. The attendees showered the show with accolades, praising the actors' remarkable skill and the production's seamless execution. With each act unfolding seamlessly, the gala delivered a series of climactic moments, leaving the audience enthralled and captivated throughout. It truly offered an unparalleled artistic spectacle, leaving the DFW audience thoroughly impressed and delighted. The founder of TCF, Tianle Tong, wishes you and your family a very happy Year of the Dragon! More pictures: https://www.flickr.com/photos/janxiephotography/albums/72177720314558251