Join us for one of our special events that raise funds for the Museum’s general operating budget, you will help to maintain the wide array of exhibitions, educational and public programs, and community initiatives that allow MOCA to fulfill its mission.
Special Events
MOCA Legacy Awards Gala
The MOCA Legacy Awards Gala recognizes the outstanding contributions and accomplishments of individuals and families whose service as pioneers, role models, and leaders have paved the way for future generations. The evening brings together a wide range of people including the Chinese diaspora, Asian American community, civic and business leaders as well as supporters of arts and culture to celebrate the mission of MOCA.
The museum preserves and presents the over 200-year history, culture, and diverse experiences of American communities of Chinese descent. The collection at MOCA of over 85,000 pieces and over 2,000 linear feet of materials is believed to be the largest collection of the Chinese in America. The funds raised enable students, educators, researchers, and the general public to learn about Chinese American contributions to the American narrative—a history that resonates deeply with all Americans.
Former awardees include Mayor Michael Bloomberg; Ronnie C. Chan (Hang Lung Properties Ltd.); Jerry Yang (Yahoo!); Steve Chen (YouTube); Jackie Chan (Actor/Martial Artist); Anita Lo (Chef); Amy Tan (Author); I. M. Pei (Architect); David Henry Hwang (Playwright); Maxine Hong Kingston (Author); Ang Lee (Academy Award-winning Director); Lucy Liu (Actress); Tzi Ma (Actor), Vera Wang (Fashion Designer); Hon. Gary Locke (Former Governor State of Washington, and First U.S. Ambassador to China); Nancy C. Lee, JP (Philanthropist), Hon. Elaine Chao (Secretary of Transportation); Hon. Mae Yih (Former Oregon State Senator), Bill Moyers and Judith Davidson Moyers (TV Journalists), and many more distinguished individuals.
MOCA Celebration of Community Heroes
The MOCA Community Heroes event recognizes the outstanding contributions and accomplishments of individuals and families whose unconditional service as pioneers, role models, and leaders has advanced our communities. Many of these individuals have direct roots in the local New York City community and have made significant contributions to the Chinese diaspora.