The Los Angeles Post

Pioneering Health Equity: Asian Health Services Celebrates 50 Years in Oakland Chinatown

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August 14, 2024 (OAKLAND, CA)– Asian Health Services (AHS), a cornerstone of community health in Oakland Chinatown, proudly marks its 50th anniversary culminating in the Annual Benefit Gala on September 14, 2024.
Established in 1974 by student activists to address immigrant and low-income healthcare needs in Oakland Chinatown, AHS has grown from a small clinic into a multi-site health center renowned for serving a diverse, low-income population across Alameda County, California with services in 14 languages including 12 Asian languages. Its 500 staff members handle over 150,000 patient visits annually, offering culturally competent medical, dental, behavioral health care, community services, and advocacy.
“Our 50th anniversary is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our staff, volunteers, and community partners who supported us over the years,” says AHS CEO Julia Liou. “We are proud of how far we’ve come and remain dedicated to providing quality care that respects the dignity and cultures of those we serve.”
AHS has also been a leader in health equity advocacy, from the One Nation campaign against harmful public charge policies to co-leading California Senate Bill 1078, which aims to create an Office of Language Access. This winter, AHS will open a new dental clinic expanding into San Leandro to serve over 8,000 patients and alleviate the current 6-month dental services wait list.
AHS will celebrate its milestone anniversary on September 14 at their Annual Benefit Gala, entitled “Our Legacy. Our Vision.” The event will honor 50 AHS Champions, including staff, community members, and stakeholders, for their commitment to supporting health equity and AHS’ growth.
US Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) and AHS Champion honoree shares, “For the past fifty years, AHS has been a steadfast advocate for the medically underserved – no matter their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or language background. As a fierce voice for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander wellness, AHS’ work has been instrumental in serving our most vulnerable populations.”
As Asian Health Services looks ahead to the next 50 years, they remain steadfast in their vision of health care for all and advocacy for the underserved. For more information about Asian Health Services and their 50th-anniversary celebration, please visit www.asianhealthservices.org.