Detroit, Michigan — The Association of Chinese Americans (ACA) proudly participated in and helped host the 2026 OCA National Convention, held July 23–26, 2026, in Detroit, Michigan. Under the theme “Motown Momentum: Igniting New Energy, Inspiring All Generations,” the convention brought together hundreds of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) leaders, professionals, students, entrepreneurs, elected officials, and community advocates from across the United States to advance OCA’s mission of leadership, civic engagement, advocacy, and community empowerment.
As the founding chapter of OCA and this year’s local host chapter, ACA was honored to welcome delegates from across the country to Detroit. Throughout the four-day convention, ACA members had the opportunity to reconnect with longtime friends, meet delegates from fellow OCA chapters, exchange ideas, share best practices, and strengthen relationships that will foster future collaboration. The convention also provided an opportunity to showcase Detroit’s rich history, cultural diversity, and the strength of Michigan’s Asian American community.
A Warm Welcome to Detroit
The convention officially began on Thursday evening with a Welcome Reception, generously hosted by DTE Energy at its downtown Detroit headquarters. Delegates gathered in a welcoming atmosphere to reconnect with colleagues and friends while meeting new attendees from across the nation. The reception set the tone for a weekend dedicated to collaboration, leadership, and community building.
Learning, Leadership, and Collaboration
Friday and Saturday featured a full schedule of plenary sessions and breakout workshops exploring issues central to OCA’s mission and the future of the AANHPI community. Sessions covered topics including civic engagement, public policy, leadership development, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, community organizing, and strategies for strengthening local OCA chapters.
ACA delegates actively participated in these discussions while learning from speakers and fellow chapter leaders representing communities across the country. The exchange of ideas and experiences reinforced the importance of collaboration in addressing the opportunities and challenges facing Asian American communities nationwide.
ACA Earns Two National Chapter Awards
One of the highlights of the convention was the Chapter of the Year Awards Luncheon, where OCA National recognized outstanding achievements by local chapters across the country.
ACA was honored to receive two national awards:
- Third Place – Membership Award
- Third Place – Community Building Award
These recognitions reflect ACA’s continued commitment to growing membership, strengthening community partnerships, and providing meaningful programs and services throughout Metro Detroit. They also recognize the dedication of ACA’s board members, staff, volunteers, sponsors, donors, and community partners whose collective efforts make these accomplishments possible.
Celebrating Community at the Night Market
Friday evening’s Community Night Market transformed the convention into a vibrant celebration of culture and community. Delegates enjoyed an evening featuring local businesses, nonprofit organizations, cultural performances, artists, and diverse cuisine. The event showcased Detroit’s vibrant Asian American community while providing opportunities for networking and fellowship in a festive atmosphere.
Honoring Excellence at the Awards Gala
Saturday evening concluded with the elegant Awards Gala, held at Detroit’s historic Masonic Temple, where OCA National honored individuals whose leadership and service have made lasting contributions to the Asian American community.
This year’s national honorees included:
- Senator Stephanie Chang, recipient of the Outstanding Citizen Achievement Award, in recognition of her distinguished public service and unwavering commitment to Michigan communities.
- Henry Duong, recipient of the Community Builder Award, honored for his exceptional leadership and dedication to strengthening Asian American communities.
- Kameelah Shareef Sims, recipient of the Outstanding Partner of the Year Award, recognized for her outstanding partnership and support in advancing OCA’s mission.
OCA National also presented its prestigious Pioneer Award to Curtis Chin, Lisa Gray, and Deepa Iyer for their lifetime contributions to civil rights, advocacy, leadership, and the advancement of Asian American communities across the nation.
The Awards Gala served as a celebration of service, leadership, and the collective achievements of individuals and organizations dedicated to building stronger and more inclusive communities.
Looking Ahead
“We are deeply honored to receive these national recognitions from OCA,” said Peggy Du, Executive Director of the Association of Chinese Americans. “These awards belong to our entire ACA family—our members, volunteers, board members, staff, sponsors, donors, and community partners. Hosting the OCA National Convention in Detroit was an incredible opportunity to showcase our city, strengthen relationships with chapters across the country, and reaffirm our shared commitment to serving the Asian American community.”
ACA extends its sincere appreciation to OCA National, DTE Energy, all convention sponsors, speakers, volunteers, and attendees whose support made the 2026 OCA National Convention an outstanding success.
As a founding chapter of OCA, ACA remains committed to advancing the organization’s mission of advocacy, leadership, and community engagement. The relationships strengthened, ideas exchanged, and inspiration gained throughout the convention will continue to guide ACA’s work as it serves the Metro Detroit community and collaborates with OCA chapters nationwide.
Together, we look forward to building on the momentum created in Detroit and continuing to inspire future generations of leaders.
