Last week in Washington, D.C., longtime Committee of 100 members Chiling Tong, President & CEO of the National Asian Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (ACE) and Dr. Jay Xu, Director Emeritus of the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco were sworn in as Chairs of the Commission to Study the Potential Creation of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture. 

At the time of the event, Dr. Jay Xu said “(This) ceremony marks an important step in our effort to fulfill the vision laid out by Congress and develop a thoughtful, community-informed roadmap for a potential museum. We are honored to serve on this Commission and look forward to engaging with experts and community members across the country to examine how to bring to life a national institution that truly reflects the richness of the Asian Pacific American experience.” 

About the Commission 

The Commission was established by Congress in June 2022 with unanimous bipartisan support to study the potential creation of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture. The Commission has some clear goals including developing a national fundraising plan, assessing the availability, cost, and acquisition process for key collections and artifacts, identifying potential locations and analyzing the institutional and regional impacts of the museum, and delivering a comprehensive legislative roadmap to Congress.    

Committee of 100’s Role 

Committee of 100 has been a steadfast advocate for the creation of this museum and proudly celebrates the leadership of Chiling Tong and Jay Xu in this national effort. Their appointments represent not just recognition of their lifelong work in culture, policy, and community—but also a commitment to elevating AAPI voices at the highest level of cultural policymaking. 

Why It Matters: In Their Own Words 

Representation 

A museum of this kind celebrates the truth that Asian Pacific American histories are an integral part of the American story,” said Chiling Tong. “For centuries, APA communities have helped shape our nation in countless ways, yet their stories have often been left out. This museum offers a powerful opportunity to uplift and honor those contributions—ensuring they are permanently recognized, cherished, and shared with future generations.”   

Education 

“Education is one of the most powerful tools against ignorance and bigotry,” said Dr. Jay Xu. “A national museum would help the public understand the complexity and diversity of the AAPI experience—including the long history of discrimination, as well as critical contributions in science, the arts, politics, and civil rights. This context is essential for breaking down stereotypes and preventing future hate.”  

Preserving Stories 

“Many AAPI immigrant and generational stories remain undocumented or at risk of being lost,” said Tong. “A national museum would serve as an institutional home to preserve oral histories, artifacts, documents, and cultural memory—ensuring access for future generations.”   

Community Pride and Healing 

“For many in the Chinese American and broader AAPI community, a national museum would stand as a powerful symbol of belonging and pride,” said Xu. “It would affirm that our families’ journeys and achievements matter. It offers a space for younger generations to connect with their heritage—and for older generations to see their sacrifices formally honored.”    

Looking Ahead 

The very act of establishing such a museum sends a powerful message: that the United States values inclusion, equity, and the telling of a complete national story. Just as there are national museums dedicated to African American history, Native American history, and Latino history, the AAPI community deserves a national platform as well. 

From left to right: Committee of 100 President Paul Cheung with  

Committee of 100 Members Daphne Kwok, Jay Xu, Chiling Tong, Handel Lee, Christine Chen and Ben Wu 

Committee of 100 has long advocated for a museum on the National Mall that will tell the important histories of our communities, and share our cultures. Committee of 100 strongly believes it is time that our stories be uplifted for what they are – an essential part of American history. We at Committee of 100 congratulate Chiling and Jay on taking on this critically important work, collaborating with fellow Members Christine Chen, Daphne Kwok, Handel Lee, Ben Wu and others to  support the goals of the Commission in the months and years to come.   

The public will be able to track updates from the Commission through its new website https://nationalapamuseum.org/.   

#  #  #