Organization of Chinese Americans Asian Pacific American Advocates Chicago

OCA – Asian Pacific American Advocates Greater Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the social, political, and economic well-being of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders throughout the Chicago, IL area. Since its incorporation on August 30, 1977, OCA Greater Chicago has focused on professional and leadership development while championing civil rights advocacy for the AAPI community.

The organization addresses critical policy priorities including defending voting rights, combating racism and xenophobia, and bridging the digital divide. OCA Greater Chicago works to expand access to internet connectivity for vulnerable populations, strengthen state-level hate crime laws, and create equitable community safety policies. Additionally, the organization advocates for the incorporation of K-12 AANHPI curriculum in educational institutions and fights against displacement through community preservation efforts in neighborhoods like Chinatowns and Little Saigons.

As part of a national network with 35 chapters and affiliates across the United States, OCA Greater Chicago leverages its resources to tackle issues including mental health stigma, intergenerational wellbeing, and voting access barriers. The organization partners with community members, organizational allies, and supporters to empower the next generation of AAPI leaders. Originally founded as the Organization of Chinese Americans in 1973 to create a unified voice during the civil rights movement, OCA rebranded in 2013 to reflect its inclusive pan-AAPI mission and the evolving demographics of its membership.