Asian American Veterans Appreciation Event

On December 20, 2025, United Hub hosted a vibrant Asian American Veterans Appreciation Event, bringing together veterans, their family members, friends, and community supporters for a meaningful celebration of service, heritage, and community. Attendees represented diverse backgrounds — including Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, Filipino, and U.S. traditions — uniting multiple generations to honor the contributions of Asian American veterans.

The event was thoughtfully guided by multi-generational MCs Assuta Ng, Lihong Tang, and Claire Ong, bringing a dynamic blend of youth, experience, and community spirit to the stage.

Opening Remarks and Ceremony

Assunta Ng, a prominent local media figure and community leader in the Seattle area, presented opening remarks that emphasized gratitude, respect, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where veterans’ stories, cultural heritage, and service are acknowledged and celebrated.

The program began with a respectful ceremony presenting the colors, followed by the U.S. National Anthem performed by Mercer Island Councilmember Julie Hsieh, a special highlight of the event.

Wei Li, President of United Hub, also gave a brief speech to thank all attendees; his son is attending the United States Military Academy at West Point, reinforcing his personal ties with the veteran community.

150 attendees participated, representing multiple generations and branches of military service. Veterans shared stories that reflected their love for family and friends, including touching memories such as meeting a spouse in Taiwan.

Heartwarming Moments

A memorable moment occurred when Assunta Ng presented handmade gingerbread houses to the eldest veterans, bringing laughter and joy to all attendees. In appreciation of her gift, renowned Chinese artist Deng Zuolie presented Assunta with a painting of galloping horses, created live as part of the event’s art demonstration.

Cultural Performances

The program featured a rich lineup of cultural performances showcasing the breadth of Asian American communities, offering attendees an engaging and meaningful artistic experience. Highlights included:

• A Vietnamese band performance

• A Korean K-pop dance presentation

• Chinese flute instrumental performances

• Guzheng (Chinese zither) music

• A performance by the Seattle Eastern Beauty Choir

• A fashion presentation celebrating cultural expression and creativity

These performances reinforced United Hub’s mission to celebrate cultural differences while honoring shared commitments and collective identity.

Feedback and Reflections

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Guests highlighted:

Strengths to Sustain

• Bringing together the broader Asian American community to celebrate veterans and military members

• Excellent location and venue within the traditional Chinatown area

• Inclusion of cultural events and performances reflecting community diversity

Opportunities for Improvement

• Consider having an honor guard carry in the flag to enhance the opening ceremony

• Improve audio quality, as sound was difficult to hear at times

• Strong opportunity to expand and further develop the event in future years

• Increase event promotion and visibility, particularly through United Hub’s social media channels

Conclusion

The Asian Veterans Appreciation Luncheon exemplified United Hub’s commitment to bringing communities together, celebrating cultural diversity, and honoring Asian American veterans’ service and allegiance to the nation. Supported by King County through the VSHSL Vets Engaged program, the event served as both a meaningful tribute and a platform for cross-cultural understanding and unity.

Overall, the luncheon was a respectful, impactful, and well-received event that strengthened community bonds while honoring service, heritage, and shared values.