The United States and China are the two most important countries in the world today. The need to understand one another better to ensure global harmony and prosperity is paramount. The 1990 Institute seeks to encourage greater social, economic, and cultural awareness between the two countries. Its mission is to broaden understanding and build trust between Americans and Chinese through education and collaboration.

The Institute has a proud 28-year track record of developing and executing unique cross-border programs. Our earlier programs included conducting scholarly research on how to improve China’s economic and social issues; providing financial support to enable 1000 rural girls in China to continue their education beyond 4th grade through college; partnering with a local Chinese micro finance organization to provide small loans without collateral to thousands of impoverished village women; and conducting cross-cultural children’s programs in art, music, and the environment. 

Our current focus is on empowering young Americans to expand and deepen their knowledge about China through two keystone programs: CHINA NOW | For Teachers, a two-day workshop and resource platform for U.S. middle and high school teachers that helps them to expand curriculum on Modern China; and Youth Voices on China, a youth video competition for 13-25 year old youth that encourages them to explore and develop their personal interests in Modern China. We also have a China Now and the Future speaker series program that brings in prominent China experts to address contemporary topical issues of interest to the community.