Statement on the July 16 Lecture with the Honorable Judge Denny Chin
On July 16, 2025, the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) had the privilege of welcoming the Honorable Judge Denny Chin for a public lecture titled “Citizenship, Immigration, and Civil Rights.” In his talk, Judge Chin explored the pivotal role that Chinese Americans have played in shaping landmark legal decisions in the United States, including the establishment of birthright citizenship through the historic United States v. Wong Kim Ark Supreme Court case.
The lecture drew a full audience of nearly 100 attendees, all eager to hear from Judge Chin, a trailblazing jurist who made history as the first Asian American to serve on the Second Circuit Court of Appeals and who co-founded the Center on Asian Americans and the Law at Fordham University.
Ahead of the event, Judge Chin remarked, “I received five emails urging me to cancel, and I did not for a moment hesitate. I knew I was going to come. I strongly believe in the museum, in its mission, and I think the criticisms are entirely off-base.”
While MOCA respects and affirms the right to peaceful protest as a cornerstone of American democracy, we are deeply concerned by the unacceptable and aggressive behavior displayed by a group of protestors outside the museum that evening. What was intended as a celebration of civil rights and legal progress was marred by harassment directed at guests, staff, and Judge Chin himself. Attempts were made to discredit a widely respected federal judge, one who has dedicated his career to defending the very civil liberties the protestors claim to uphold.
Several serious incidents were reported to the museum:
- Judge Chin and his wife were subjected to threatening behavior and verbal abuse as they exited the museum.
- Protestors physically blocked and encircled numerous guests, some elderly or requiring mobility assistance, preventing them from entering the event.
- Attendees reported being pushed, touched without consent, and verbally assaulted.
- Guests and staff were followed and filmed without permission after leaving the premises; one family with a minor asked the protestors to stop recording, and their request was ignored.
- Protestors shouted unfounded and inflammatory statements, including claims that the museum “kills women” and would “call ICE” on them.
These actions reflect a long-running campaign of disinformation led by individuals who do not represent the broader Chinatown community. Their false claims, including allegations that the museum supported the construction of a new jail, have persisted for years. We have publicly addressed these inaccuracies in our FAQ, which is available on our website.
To reiterate:
- MOCA opposes the construction of a new jail in Chinatown.
- MOCA supports increased investment in community-based organizations and small businesses that strengthen and enrich Chinatown.
- By securing a permanent home in the neighborhood, MOCA is committed to investing in programs and cultural offerings that increase local visitation and benefit the wider community.
We condemn harassment, intimidation, and the spreading of deliberate falsehoods. At a time when the role of immigrant communities is being debated and challenged, we stand firm in our responsibility to preserve and uplift the true stories of Chinese in America. We will not be deterred by those who seek to silence, intimidate, or divide us.
The safety of our guests, staff, and community remains our highest priority. We remain committed to fostering a welcoming and respectful space for dialogue, learning, and connection.
Events like Judge Chin’s lecture are both timely and vital. We are deeply grateful to those who joined us in person, demonstrating courage and a shared commitment to truth, education, and justice. We proudly honor leaders like Judge Denny Chin, whose legacy exemplifies the resilience, excellence, and contributions of our community. We will continue to carry that legacy forward with pride and purpose.
