132 Years of Heritage and Harmony: Chinese Merchants Association Celebrates a Storied Legacy in South Florida
By Asiana Post | April 24, 2025
Miami, FL – The Chinese Merchants Association marked its 132nd anniversary last night with a dignified celebration highlighting more than a century of cultural preservation, business leadership, and community partnership. The South Florida event drew a diverse audience of civic, diplomatic, and community leaders—reflecting the Association’s deep roots and continued relevance in shaping inclusive progress.
Among the evening’s notable guests were Seheli Sabrin, Consul General of Bangladesh; Mayor Omarr C. Nickerson, Ph.D., of the Village of El Portal, Florida; members of the Miami-Dade Asian American Advisory Board; and Mariesen Satori, President of the Greater Miami Asian Real Estate Association. Their participation signaled strong cross-cultural support and a shared commitment to community advancement.
The program included a cultural performance by Lena Ungh, a young artist of Chinese and Vietnamese heritage. Her contribution added a thoughtful and artistic dimension to the evening, quietly honoring the multicultural spirit of the celebration.
Established in the late 1800s, the Chinese Merchants Association emerged during a time when Chinese immigrants faced widespread discrimination and limited opportunity. In response, merchants and business leaders banded together to form an organization that would protect their interests, support newcomers, and sustain their cultural traditions.
Since then, the Association has grown into a respected institution, instrumental in the development of historic Chinatowns, the promotion of small businesses, and the defense of civil rights. In modern times, it remains a key advocate for Asian American visibility and engagement in civic life.
Locally, groups like the Florida Chinese Business Association continue this important work—connecting business owners, facilitating international exchange, and strengthening ties between communities throughout South Florida.
As the 132nd anniversary was commemorated with reflection and celebration, the event reaffirmed the Association’s legacy as a cornerstone of resilience and cooperation. Its story is not only a chapter of Chinese American history but also a lasting contribution to the diverse and evolving identity of America itself.