- Apr 13, 2025
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On September 14, 2024, Oakland's Chinatown will reverberate with joy and gratitude as Asian Health Services (AHS) commemorates its remarkable 50th anniversary. This milestone isn’t just about a celebration; it's a testament to five decades of unwavering commitment to community health and equity.
Established in 1974 by a group of passionate student activists, AHS emerged as a response to the pressing healthcare needs of immigrants and low-income families in Oakland's Chinatown. Over the years, it has blossomed from a modest clinic into a multi-site health center that serves a diverse population across Alameda County, California.
AHS takes pride in its ability to communicate effectively with its patients, offering services in 14 languages, including 12 Asian languages. With a dedicated team of 500 staff members, AHS is responsible for over 150,000 patient visits annually, providing:
Under the leadership of CEO Julia Liou, AHS has become a beacon of health equity advocacy. The organization has spearheaded initiatives like the One Nation campaign, which challenges harmful public charge policies, and has co-led California Senate Bill 1078, aimed at establishing an Office of Language Access.
In an exciting expansion, AHS is set to open a new dental clinic in San Leandro this winter, which will serve over 8,000 patients and help alleviate the current six-month wait for dental services.
The upcoming Annual Benefit Gala, aptly titled “Our Legacy. Our Vision,” will honor 50 AHS Champions—individuals who have played a pivotal role in the organization’s journey. Among the honorees is U.S. Representative Barbara Lee (D-Oakland), who states, “For the past fifty years, AHS has been a steadfast advocate for the medically underserved—regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or language background.”
As AHS reflects on its past, it remains committed to its vision of inclusive healthcare for all and advocacy for the underserved. The organization is poised to continue its crucial work for the next 50 years and beyond, ensuring that every voice in the community is heard and valued.
For more information on Asian Health Services and their 50th-anniversary celebration, visit www.asianhealthservices.org.
Emily Chen is a dynamic multimedia journalist known for her insightful reporting and engaging storytelling. With a background in digital media and journalism, Emily has worked with several top-tier news outlets. Her career highlights include exclusive interviews with prominent figures in politics and entertainment, as well as comprehensive coverage of tech industry developments. Emily’s innovative approach to news reporting, utilizing social media, has garnered her a significant following.
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