CMAA’s Lunar New Year celebration unites Chicago’s Asian community
Chicago, February 8, 2025 – The Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA) hosted an exuberant Lunar New Year celebration at St. Augustine College in Chicago, commemorating the Year of the Snake with cultural performances, distinguished guests, and an uplifting atmosphere of unity. The event, which drew over 500 attendees, included community leaders, consulate representatives, and local residents, underscoring CMAA’s commitment to preserving Asian traditions while fostering inclusivity.
Cultural Highlights and Speeches
The evening kicked off with a captivating lion dance performance by CMAA’s youth team, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune for the new year.
CMAA Founder Yman Vien gave an inspiring speech, reflecting on her personal journey to the U.S. in 1978 and welcoming guests as part of the CMAA family. She shared the cultural significance of the Snake in Chinese tradition, symbolizing wisdom, agility, and creativity. Vien also expressed gratitude to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office for their donation of two lion statues in 2018, which has greatly supported the training of young performers.
Rhea Yap, Co-Interim Executive Director & Director of Strategic Initiatives, also spoke, touching on the personal meaning of the Year of the Snake for her family. She highlighted her mother’s commitment to nursing and emphasized the importance of cultural heritage in shaping future generations.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The event was honored by an impressive group of dignitaries, including U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (of Indian descent), Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, Illinois Supreme Court Justice Joy Cunningham, Illinois State Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza, Illinois State Treasurer Michael W. Frerichs, Illinois State Senator Ram Villivalam (of Indian descent), Illinois State Representative Hoan Huynh, Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Chicago Clerk Anna Valencia, and Alderwoman Nicole Lee (Ward 11).
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and State Senator Ram Villivalam, both of Indian descent, congratulated the Chinese community on the Lunar New Year and praised the event’s success, emphasizing the importance of multicultural celebrations in fostering unity. Dr. Avi Verma, Publisher of IndoUS Tribune, also congratulated CMAA for its steadfast dedication to preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
A Celebration of Culture and Community
Guests were treated to a variety of traditional folk dances, musical performances, and a raffle, while enjoying authentic Chinese New Year cuisine. The celebration embodied CMAA’s mission of preserving cultural heritage and fostering community engagement.
Additionally, CMAA participated in the Uptown Chicago Lunar New Year Parade, showcasing lion dances and cultural performances alongside local organizations, further contributing to the festive spirit.
CMAA’s Legacy and Impact
Since its founding in 1981, CMAA has been a cornerstone of support for immigrants and refugees, offering educational programs, job training, and social services to over 5,000 clients annually. The 2025 Lunar New Year celebration not only honored Chinese traditions but also strengthened Chicago’s multicultural fabric, fostering community connections through shared cultural exchange and heritage.
IndoUS Tribune congratulates CMAA on yet another successful Lunar New Year event and commends its unwavering commitment to empowering the community!
