A National Writing Initiative Highlighting the Voices and Contributions of the American Chinese Community Ahead of America’s 250th Anniversary
The Eagle Symbol of America: Picture by: Chris Ho, Artist and Professor at Saddleback College.
As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, a nationwide Chinese-language nonfiction writing contest titled “My America and Me” has officially been launched across America. The initiative aims to document and highlight the lived experiences and contributions of the American Chinese community in the United States through personal storytelling. The project is organized by the U.S.-China Peace and Friendship Association and hosted by the Los Angeles Chinese Writers Association.
Organizers note that the history of the United States is, fundamentally, a collective narrative shaped by generations of immigrants. The American Chinese community has long played a significant role across a wide range of fields, including art, business, culture, education, entertainment, industry, mathematics, medicine, music, public service, science, technology, and biotechnology. Chinese immigrants have brought with them important innovations from China, such as the kite and fireworks, and contributed significantly to America’s development.
Historically, Chinese laborers worked alongside Irish immigrants in the construction of the transcontinental railroad, helping to build one of the most critical infrastructure achievements in American history. Some of America’s most celebrated writers and storytellers, such as Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, noted that California’s early development was fueled not only by gold, but also by the technology, discipline, and work ethic brought by Chinese immigrants to the gold fields.
The influence of Chinese culture can also be found in everyday American life. The flavors of Chinese cuisine and the enjoyment of tea, once introduced through Chinatowns across the country, have become widely embraced and appreciated by people throughout the United States. As America approaches its 250-year anniversary, it is clear that Chinese contributions have become a vibrant and flavorful part of the fabric we call America.
Yet, many of these individual stories remain scattered across generations and have not been systematically recorded. As the Modern Day Marco Polo, I would be remiss if I did not also reflect on the historical cultural exchanges attributed to Marco Polo. It is often said that China introduced flatbread, which Marco Polo brought back to the West, later evolving into what we know today as pizza—one of the most widely consumed foods in the United States. Similarly, noodles, originating in China, were introduced to the West and evolved into Italian pasta traditions such as spaghetti, now staples in American cuisine.
This writing project seeks to address that gap by encouraging firsthand accounts rooted in real people and real experiences, reflecting the diverse journeys of Chinese individuals in America. The contest is open to Chinese-language writers across the United States, including individuals of Chinese descent as well as those who have lived, studied, or worked in the country.
Submissions must be nonfiction essays centered on the theme “My America and Me,” covering topics such as immigration experiences, education, career paths, and community building. Entries should be approximately 5,000 Chinese characters, or 5 to 6 pages in English translation. Submissions will be accepted through April 30, 2026.
A panel of writers, critics, and editors will oversee the evaluation process, selecting first, second, and third prize winners, along with additional excellence awards. The first prize includes a cash award of $1,000.
Selected works will be published in a bilingual collection titled Our American Stories, scheduled for release ahead of July 4, 2026, in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The organizers stated, “Every immigrant is a witness to their era, and every family is part of the American story. By documenting personal experiences, we not only preserve the authentic history of the Chinese immigrant community, but also help foster cultural understanding in a diverse society.”
As America approaches this historic milestone, initiatives such as “My America and Me” serve not only as a reflection of the past, but as an invitation for future generations to participate in shaping the narrative of a diverse and evolving nation. For many, this is more than a writing opportunity—it is a chance to ensure that their voice, their family, and their journey become part of the enduring American story.
At a time when conversations surrounding identity, migration, and cultural heritage are increasingly significant, this initiative seeks to elevate voices that are often underrepresented, offering a human-centered perspective on what it truly means to be part of America.
Submissions can be sent to: mggsla2026@gmail.com
Subject line: “My America and Me” + Author Name + State
