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2025-04-23 BLIA Miami Recognized at the 132nd Anniversary of the On Leong Merchants Association of America

  • Writer: dMei
    dMei
  • 4 days ago
  • 2 min read

The 132nd Anniversary and 99th Annual Meeting of the On Leong Merchants Association of America was grandly held on April 23 in Miami, Florida. Nearly 400 representatives and guests from chapters in Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington D.C., the Greater D.C. Area, Houston, and other cities gathered to celebrate the occasion. Distinguished guests in attendance included Xu Jiaqing, Minister of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC); Lin Qiguo, President of the General Association of Chinese Associations; Zhou Qiyu, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Miami; Deputy Director Cai Bangwen; Secretary Huang Shicong; Overseas Community Affairs Commissioner Li Sanfu; and Josh Ho, Director of the Asian American Affairs Committee. All were present to witness this important moment commemorating the rich history and community contributions of the On Leong Merchants Association.

The Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Miami Chapter was also invited to the celebration. Representatives included Advisor Mr. Guanglong Zhao, President Ms. Yanhua Deng, Vice President Mr. Xile, and board members Ms. Yuqing Guo and Ms. Xiuzhen Lin. Over the years, BLIA members have made outstanding contributions in South Florida through charitable outreach, cultural and spiritual programs, vegetarian advocacy, and community service. In recognition of these efforts, the On Leong Merchants Association presented BLIA Miami with the “Community Contribution Award”, accepted by Mr. Guanglong Zhao on behalf of the chapter.

In his speech, Mr. Zhao expressed his gratitude for the honor and said,

“Fo Guang Shan, upholding the Humanistic Buddhism philosophy advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, has long been rooted in the community, dedicating itself to cultural education, charitable work, and environmental protection. Today’s award is a profound recognition of the selfless dedication of all BLIA members and devotees in Miami.”He also noted the long-standing cooperation between BLIA and the On Leong Merchants Association, citing numerous joint events over the years such as vegetarian cultural festivals, Dharma talks, and community fundraising efforts—all aimed at promoting harmony and development in South Florida.

President Wu Guolian of the On Leong Merchants Association praised Fo Guang Shan for not only promoting the Dharma but also for giving back to society through practical actions, making it an indispensable force in the community. He expressed hope for even deeper collaboration in the future to spread goodness and cultural values more widely and deeply within society.

BLIA Miami President Ms. Yanhua Deng shared that it was a great honor to be invited to such a meaningful event and to receive recognition. She emphasized that the award serves as encouragement for BLIA to continue cultivating the community, building good relationships, and promoting Humanistic Buddhism for the benefit of all. Vice President Mr. Xile added that the event was not just about receiving an award but also a moment to unite strength and reaffirm their faith.

Notably, on the following day (April 24), the On Leong Merchants Association organized a special delegation of about 75 people to visit Fo Guang Shan Miami Temple. They were warmly welcomed and guided by Venerable Jue Yan. The temple hosted a vegetarian lunch and provided a tour of the facilities. Guests experienced the serene and dignified ambiance of the temple, watched a Dharma video about Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and wrote down blessings and wishes on the Bodhi Tree Wall. The atmosphere was touching and heartfelt



 
 
 
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