2026
Chinese American Women in History (CAWH) Conference
Telling Our Stories
Exploring the stories of Chinese American women in literature, media, history, and the arts
For generations, Chinese American women have shaped our nation’s history, culture, and arts. Their stories deserve to be seen, heard, and remembered.
Join scholars, artists, educators, students, and community leaders from across the country for three inspiring days of learning, conversation, and connection.
September 30–October 2, 2026
Washington, DC
About the Conference
The Chinese American Women in History (CAWH) Conference is a national gathering dedicated to exploring the lives, contributions, and experiences of Chinese American women.
Hosted by the 1882 Foundation, this biennial conference brings together scholars, educators, writers, artists, filmmakers, students, and community leaders to share research, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections.
20+ Speakers
National Gathering
Networking Events
Our Stories Matter
Chinese American women’s stories are an essential part of the American story.
Yet many remain overlooked in classrooms, museums, media, and public con-versations.
The CAWH Conference helps bring these stories to light through scholarship, dialogue, and community—ensuring they are preserved, shared, and celebrated for future generations.
What You'll Experience
Join a vibrant community of scholars, artists, educators, students, and community leaders exploring the many dimensions of Chinese American women’s history and culture.
During the conference, you’ll:
- Hear inspiring keynote speakers.
- Discover new scholarship and creative work.
- Participate in engaging panel discussions.
- Connect with colleagues from across the country.
- Exchange ideas during networking events and receptions.
- Experience Washington, DC’s Chinese American history through an optional educational field experience.
Explore Topics Including
- Literature and storytelling
- Media, film, and the performing arts
- Museums and cultural preservation
- Civic leadership and the legacy of Mabel Ping-Hua Lee
- Community-centered design and America’s Chinatowns
- Mental health and intergenerational experiences
- Multicultural identities
- Challenging the model minority stereotype
Meet Our Speakers
Cathleen Cahill
Social Historian
Penn State University
Author, Recasting the Vote: How Women of Color Transformed the Suffrage Movement
Mamie Chan, OD
Community Advocate & Optometrist
Carolyn Chan
Former President, Chinese American Citizens Alliance (CACA)
Sze Chan
Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner
Serena Chen
Psychiatrist
Stephanie Chou
Composer & Jazz Musician
Ginny Gong
Former Host, Ginny’s…Where East Meets West
Former President, OCA–Asian Pacific American Advocates
Melissa Ho
Curator of Twentieth-Century Art Smithsonian American Art Museum
Lauren Jeu
Director, Writer & Producer
Yin Kong
Executive Director
Think!Chinatown
Stacey J. Lee
Vilas Research Professor & Frederick Erickson WARF Professor of Educational Policy Studies
University of Wisconsin–Madison Faculty Affiliate, Asian American Studies
Andrea Louie
Chair & Professor of Anthropology Michigan State University
Author, Chinese American Mothering
Jenn Low
Integrative Designer, Educator & Landscape Architect
Sonia Mak
Executive Director
Asian Arts Initiative
Regina McPhie
Born Washingtonian who grew up in DC’s Chinatown
Elaine Peng
Executive Director & Founder
Mental Health Association for Chinese Communities
Katie Gee Salisbury
Author, Not Your China Doll
Eugenie Tsai
Former Curator of Contemporary Art Brooklyn Museum
Lou Wang-Holborn
Film Producer
Iris Chang: Power of One
Yao-Fen You
Acting Director
Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center
Join Us
Whether you’re presenting research, discovering new perspectives, or making meaningful connections, you’ll leave inspired by the people, ideas, and stories that define this growing community.
Become part of the conversation.
Become part of the community.
Hotel Accommodations
A block of rooms has been reserved for conference attendees at a local hotel. For hotel information or conference-related questions, please contact Yilin Zhang at Yilin@1882foundation.org
Sponsorship Opportunities
Support the Work of the 1882 Foundation
The Chinese American Women in History Conference is made possible through the support of donors, sponsors, and community partners.
If your organization is interested in supporting the 1882 Foundation and its programs, we invite you to learn more about our sponsorship opportunities.
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