OCA Mourns the Passing of Cindy Tong
Photo credit: Jerry Arnold
For Immediate Release
October 11, 2024
Media Contact:
Socheata Sun, Communications Associate
socheata.sun@ocanational.org
Washington, D.C. — OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates mourns the loss of Cindy Tong, former OCA San Francisco President, OCA National Secretary, and national staff member, who passed away earlier this week after a brief illness. Cindy dedicated nearly 40 years to OCA, serving as the editor of OCA’s IMAGE magazine and coordinating the organization’s annual national conventions and Corporate Achievement Awards.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Cindy Tong,” stated OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates National President Linda Ng. “ Cindy’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts over nearly four decades have left an indelible mark on OCA. Cindy will be profoundly missed, and we are forever grateful for her invaluable contributions. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
“OCA was the beneficiary of Cindy’s passion for advocating for the rights of Chinese Americans and Asian Americans,” stated former OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates Executive Director Daphne Kwok. “In the pre-internet age, Cindy kept OCA members and the public informed about the latest community issues through her communications role. Beloved by all who worked alongside her, this world needs more Cindy Tongs.”
For generations of OCA families who attended the OCA National conventions, Cindy was a constant figure who loved organizing this family reunion every single year,” stated former OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates Executive Director Christine Chen. “It brought her joy working with all the interns, the local chapters, and the corporate sponsors to provide this pivotal space for the AAPI community to gather and be inspired for the work ahead fighting for our civil rights. Her spirit and creativity in has been infused in the OCA family throughout this nation.”
Cindy is survived by her brothers, Ted and Terry (Jenny), and her beloved nieces, Amanda (daughter Sonia), Sabrina (Michael Coffman, son Zayn), and Deanna. Private services will be held on October 13. Flowers may be sent to Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 1000 El Camino Real, Colma, CA 94014.
In accordance with Cindy’s wishes, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in her honor. Condolence cards and letters may be sent to Ted Tong/Tong Family, 2716 Polk St., San Francisco, CA 94109.
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About OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates
Founded in 1973, OCA–Asian Pacific American Advocates is a national, member-driven social justice organization of community advocates dedicated to advancing the social, political, and economic well-being of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). Learn more about our work at ocanational.org/about.