In a heartwarming moment for community involvement, Chen Yanying, a long-time resident of Oakland’s Chinatown and a U.S. citizen for the past ten years, accomplished a significant milestone by submitting her voter registration on October 5. This achievement was made possible with the assistance of volunteer Carmen Peng at the Fortune Center’s office on the second floor.
Recalling her earlier reservations about the registration process, Chen said, “I struggled with my English and wasn’t sure how to navigate the steps to register. I also had concerns about sharing sensitive information like my Social Security number. I was worried about how my data might be used. But once I found a trusted organization, it gave me the confidence to proceed.”
The Chinese Mental Health Alliance (MHACC), a nonprofit organization, has established sites in San Francisco, Oakland, and Fremont, where volunteers help Chinese American citizens register to vote. Since the launch of this initiative, it has aided nearly 100 individuals with both online and in-person support for their voter registration.
On the day of her registration, Chen took a break from work to complete the process. Although she immigrated to the U.S. with her husband and became a citizen a decade ago, she had never registered to vote before. “With my limited English, the whole thing seemed overwhelming. Sharing personal details felt invasive, especially with someone I didn’t know well,” she reflected.
Familiar with the Chinese Mental Health Alliance and its trustworthy volunteers, Chen decided to get involved when she learned about their voter registration services. Volunteer Carmen Peng provided careful guidance throughout the registration process, ensuring that Chen’s preferences were respected. “It’s essential to follow the wishes of the individuals, whether they choose to register as Democrats or Republicans,” Peng noted.
Once Chen filled out her essential information, she was prompted to review and sign her application. Carmen suggested that she take a photo of her signature for her own records, explaining, “It’s essential to have a consistent signature when voting; otherwise, election officials may question its authenticity.” Any errors made during the process were discarded in Chen’s presence to ensure her data’s security, and Carmen reminded her to properly deposit her application in the mailbox downstairs.
Chen expressed her deep appreciation for the assistance she received and articulated her aspirations for being an active voter. “Once I become engaged in voting, I want to support candidates who share my beliefs and advocate for policies that reflect the interests of my community,” she shared.
As a reminder, the deadline for voter registration in California is October 21. Citizens who haven’t registered yet can do so online at https://registertovote.ca.gov. Those uncertain about the process can receive in-person assistance until October 17, with volunteers on hand to help with translations and paperwork.
Organizers emphasize that every vote plays a critical role in shaping the future. Regardless of political beliefs, they urge Asian Americans to make their voices heard and avoid being passive observers in the electoral process. Citizens ready to register should come prepared with valid identification and their Social Security numbers.
Here are the locations for voter registration assistance:
**Oakland**: Fortune Center, Room 208 (388 9th Street, Ste 208, Oakland, CA 94607)
**Hours**: Now through October 17, Monday to Friday, 1:30 PM to 4 PM.
**San Francisco**: Chinatown, 835 Clay Street, Room 103 (Second Floor, San Francisco, CA 94108)
**Hours**: October 10 and 17, 10 AM to 5 PM.
**Fremont**: 38750 Paseo Padre Parkway, Suite C7 (Fremont, CA 94536)
**Hours**: October 8, 9, 15, and 16, 9 AM to 12 PM.
