Since its founding in 1980, MOCA has celebrated the living history of the Chinese experience in America by preserving and presenting the 200-year history, heritage, culture, and diverse experiences of American communities of Chinese descent. Founded as a community-based organization, MOCA has over a period of four decades maintained our community centrality while gaining a national following of visitors and members. Our museum strives to be responsive to the moment; tell nuanced and unexpected stories; spotlight politically conscious issues; and provide a platform for open dialogue and dynamic programs. MOCA contributes to a fuller and more nuanced and layered American narrative in highlighting the stories of this immigrant community.

Visitors experience MOCA’s pertinent yet undertold history and content through four programming arms

• The curation of seasonal exhibitions representing multifarious Chinese American and immigrant experiences
• The documentation and collection of the largest research center of Chinese American artifacts in the United States
• The production of public programs featuring the stories of Chinese and Asian American milestones, challenges, achievements, and community activism
• The organization of a roster of educational initiatives for people of all demographic groups

Ultimately, MOCA connects the past with the present and the future, bringing together the Chinese American community with the diaspora and people from all walks of life. We envision our visitors re-entering the world as moral advocates, active historians, and community stewards.