On July 16, the Committee of 100 hosted Dr. Gordon H. Chang of Stanford University to discuss his new book, Fateful Ties: A History of America’s Preoccupation with China. The event was moderated by C100 member Dr. Frank Wu, Dean of UC Hastings College of the Law and was introduced by Holly Chang, our acting Executive Director.

Dr. Chang noted that his book gives the history of America’s fascination, concern, and interest in China and is an effort to understand the cultural and ideological structure behind Chinese-American relations. He noted with concern that the relationship between China and the United States is at a low point at the moment, lower than during Chairman Mao’s time, citing in part the plethora of books that paint China in a negative light. However, he reassured the audience that due to the long history of the relationship, highs and lows are inevitable, and the relationship will improve with time. He did caution that the upcoming election cycle in the United States is of concern, with politicians making extreme comments about China and politicizing the relationship. America’s destiny is closely intertwined with China, and we must proceed with a balanced approach to maintain this most crucial of relationships.

The event was hosted by Umpqua Bank and was standing room only, with guests from corporations and nonprofits such as Alibaba, Give2Asia, and the Cal-Business Council. C-100 members attending were: Dan Chao; Lanhee Chen; new member Buck Gee; Anna Mok; Frank Wu; Dennis Wu; Jay Xu, and Linda Tsao Yang.

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