The Chinese Association of West Michigan (CAWM) is a non-profit cultural organization, serving the West Michigan region including the Greater Grand Rapids area, Holland, Muskegon, Grand Haven, etc. There are over 600 members in the organization as of March 2005. While most of our members are of Chinese extraction, we have members who are from other ethnic backgrounds. We welcome folks from various races and religious beliefs to be part of our organization.
Since its inauguration in 1991, the Chinese community in West Michigan has witnessed tremendous demographic growth. The Chinese population currently represents one of the fastest growing ethnic groups in the area. Most of the CAWM members work in the high-tech industries, manufacturing, higher education, information technologies, biotech research institutions and international trade industries. More and more highly educated Chinese professionals are relocating to West Michigan. Presently close to 100 Chinese PhD professionals and 40 university professors work in the area. The VanAndel Research Institute alone has over 30 Chinese medical researchers on its staff. And the number of medical researchers will likely grow as the Institute is geared to roll out its plan for a Graduate School in the near future.
With China’s growing importance in global economy and increasing Sino-US trade and cultural exchanges, there is a growing presence of Chinese culture and an increasing interest in the Chinese culture/language among the West Michigan community, esp. in the Greater Grand Rapids area. A key mission of CAWM is to advance cross-cultural understanding between China and US and between the Chinese community and the other ethnic groups, and promote the rich Chinese cultural heritage and traditions in the region.
One of the most influential reach-out events is the annual Chinese New Year Celebration Party Show. The two hour show offers a rich cultural feast to the West Michigan community by featuring unique cultural activities and a variety of artistic performances, including Chinese folk dance, chorus, solo, theatrical sketches, traditional Chinese instruments, ethnic costume show, and much more. The performance presents a beautiful combination of music, color, artistry and culture. 2005 was the fifth year CAWM has held the Chinese New Year event. With constant improvements over the years, this event has enjoyed increasing success, popularity and acclaim in the West Michigan community.
www.wmchineseassociation.org - 36340 - The Chinese Association of West Michigan
