What Are Readers Like You Exploring?

The Committee of 100 (C100), a non-profit that promotes US-China relations, faces the challenge of addressing rising anti-Asian hate while navigating the complex dynamics between the two nations. Newly appointed president Paul Cheung outlines a strategy aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding, emphasising the importance of human connections beyond political tensions. Cheung’s leadership seeks to elevate narratives that reflect the experiences of Chinese-Americans and bridge gaps in cross-cultural understanding.

Last updated: 22 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In the current geopolitical climate, US-China relations are marked by increasing tension and rivalry. Paul Cheung’s appointment as president of the Committee of 100 (C100) comes at a pivotal moment when the need for constructive dialogue and mutual understanding is more critical than ever. The C100 aims to be a platform for Chinese-Americans to address issues of anti-Asian sentiment while fostering connections between the two nations. Cheung's focus is on creating a narrative that acknowledges the impact of these international dynamics on individuals, particularly within the Chinese-American community.

Key takeaways

• Paul Cheung emphasises the importance of human-to-human relations in US-China interactions.
• The C100 seeks to elevate the voices of Chinese-Americans while combating anti-Asian hate.
• Cheung plans to utilise research and advocacy to inform public understanding of Chinese-American issues.
• The organisation aims to facilitate people-to-people exchanges, leveraging technology for virtual connections.
• Cheung’s leadership will focus on defining the C100’s role and clarifying its mission amidst complex narratives.

Timeline: how we got here

The Committee of 100 was founded in 1990 to foster dialogue between Chinese-Americans and the broader American society. Over the years, it has evolved to respond to changing dynamics in US-China relations. Here’s a brief timeline of significant milestones:

• 1990: C100 established to promote understanding and collaboration between the US and China.
• 2020: Rise in anti-Asian hate crimes coincides with the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting increased focus on advocacy.
• October 2023: Paul Cheung appointed as president, signalling a renewed commitment to address contemporary challenges.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

In his first public statements as president, Paul Cheung emphasised a strategic pivot towards fostering human connections in the context of rising geopolitical tensions. He aims to reassert the C100's mission of promoting bilateral understanding, particularly amidst a climate of misinformation and anti-Asian sentiment.

What was already established

The C100 has a long-standing commitment to facilitating dialogue and understanding between Chinese-Americans and both the US and Chinese governments. Historically, it has served as a resource for research and advocacy on issues affecting the Chinese-American community, including discrimination and civil liberties.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

As the US and China navigate their complex relationship, UK consumers may experience indirect effects, particularly in areas such as trade, technology, and cultural exchanges. The C100’s efforts to promote understanding could foster more robust international partnerships that benefit UK interests.

Businesses and jobs

The ongoing US-China rivalry has implications for global supply chains, which could affect UK businesses that rely on Chinese goods and services. By advocating for constructive dialogue, the C100 may help mitigate some of the tensions that could disrupt these critical economic relationships.

Policy and regulation

UK policymakers may need to consider the implications of US-China relations as they develop their strategies for trade, technology, and international cooperation. The C100's research and advocacy could provide valuable insights that inform UK policy decisions related to these issues.

Numbers that matter

• 140: Number of experts in the C100's network, reflecting diverse backgrounds and expertise.
• 35: Years of the C100's existence, highlighting its longstanding commitment to US-China relations.
• 300,000: Estimate of Chinese international students in the US, showcasing the importance of educational exchanges.
• 20%: Increase in reported anti-Asian hate crimes in the US since the pandemic began, underscoring the urgency of C100's mission.
• 1: Number of new initiatives focused on community engagement and advocacy launched by Paul Cheung in his first year.

Definitions and jargon buster

• C100: Committee of 100, a non-profit organisation focused on fostering US-China relations.
• AAPI: Asian American and Pacific Islander, a term used to refer to individuals of Asian and Pacific Islander descent in the US.
• Alien Land Act: Historical laws in the US that restricted land ownership by individuals based on their nationality, particularly targeting Asian immigrants.
• Xenophobia: Dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries or cultures.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, the C100 will focus on defining its mission and vision under Cheung’s leadership. This includes clarifying its role in addressing anti-Asian hate and enhancing public understanding of Chinese-American issues.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Over the next few months, the C100 aims to develop initiatives that promote cross-cultural exchanges, leveraging technology to facilitate remote connections. This will involve gathering data on public perceptions of Chinese-Americans to inform advocacy efforts.

Signals to watch

• Changes in US immigration policy affecting international students.
• Trends in anti-Asian hate crimes and community responses.
• Public perception of Chinese-Americans as revealed in research surveys.

Practical guidance

Do

• Engage with community organisations that focus on anti-Asian hate and advocacy.
• Stay informed about US-China relations and their impact on local communities.
• Participate in discussions that promote understanding and tolerance across cultures.

Don’t

• Ignore rising anti-Asian sentiment or assume it will resolve on its own.
• Engage in divisive rhetoric that may further polarise communities.
• Overlook the importance of education and awareness in fostering understanding.

Checklist

• Review recent reports on anti-Asian hate in your community.
• Identify local organisations that advocate for Asian-American rights.
• Participate in events that promote cultural understanding and exchange.
• Educate yourself on US-China relations and their global implications.
• Engage with diverse communities to build bridges and foster dialogue.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As the C100 navigates the complexities of US-China relations, it must contend with rising anti-Asian hate and misinformation. The organisation's ability to effectively advocate for Chinese-Americans may be challenged by political and social dynamics that are often beyond its control. Additionally, the impact of geopolitical tensions on local communities remains uncertain, as public sentiment can shift rapidly.

Bottom line

The Committee of 100, under Paul Cheung's leadership, is poised to play a crucial role in addressing the dual challenges of anti-Asian hate and US-China relations. By focusing on human connections and fostering dialogue, the C100 aims to uplift the voices of Chinese-Americans and promote a nuanced understanding of the issues at play. The success of these initiatives will depend on continued engagement and collaboration across various sectors.

FAQs

What is the role of the Committee of 100?

The Committee of 100 (C100) serves to promote understanding between Chinese-Americans and broader American society while addressing issues affecting the community, including anti-Asian hate and US-China relations.

How does the C100 address anti-Asian hate?

The C100 tackles anti-Asian hate by conducting research, raising awareness, and mobilising influential leaders within the community to advocate for civil liberties and inclusivity.

What impact do US-China relations have on Chinese-Americans?

The relationship between the US and China significantly influences the experiences of Chinese-Americans, affecting everything from public perception to policies that impact their civil liberties and economic opportunities.