In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Gala celebrates Chinese American and Asian American leadership, contributions, and influence across American life. The evening will honor leaders who bridge cultures, strengthen democratic institutions, and drive innovation, telling a fuller American story across infrastructure, culture, and civic life. Academy Award-winning filmmaker Ang Lee will join C100 Board Chair Janet Yang for the evening’s keynote fireside conversation. More than 250 guests will gather, including policymakers, business leaders, cultural figures, C100 members, honorees, sponsors, and allied organizations from across the country.
The festivities include a behind-the-scenes visit to Face the Nation, curator-led tours at the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center and the National Archives, a community breakfast with APIAVote, a conversation on U.S.-China relations with Jessica Chen Weiss, and a screening of Dear You followed by a conversation with the director and cast.