The United Calgary Chinese Association was organized in 1969 and registered with Alberta Consumer and Corporate Affairs in 1970. The United Calgary Chinese Association (UCCA) was formed to prevent the demolition of Calgary’s Chinatown.

In 1968, the City of Calgary planned to build an expressway to join Bow Trail West and Sixteen Avenue North, cutting Chinatown half at Centre Street. It was clear to the Chinese community at the time that the plan would effectively eliminate Chinatown.

Led by the Sien Lok Society, a group of native-born and newly arrived Chinese professionals, the community fought the plan at City Council and succeeded in having it voted down. That incident made the Chinese community aware of the pressing need to protect common interests and rights. A meeting was called on April 28, 1969, with representation from 19 Chinese associations.

The representation of so many groups has proved unwieldy, and the Association is currently reviewing its structure and by-laws. Over the past several years, the UCCA has accomplished many significant projects:

(1) submitted a proposal for the establishment of a Chinese cemetery in Queen’s park (the City of Calgary approved this in 1976);

(2) worked with the Planning Department to draft guidelines for the redevelopment of Chinatown in 1983/84;

(3) joined with the Chinatown Lion’s Club to sponsor the construction of the Wah Ying Mansion in 1986; and

(4) organization the committee for the construction of the Chinese Cultural Centre” in 1948 Association past president, Mr. Douglas Tim; former vice-president, Mr. Joe Khn; and former Director, Mr. Victor Mah, at on the organizing committee. Donations of over $20,000 by UCCA covered initial expenses.

Annually, the UCCA coordinates the community-wild event, such as the Spring Festival, the Variety of Nations, seniors banquets, Sprint and Autumn Memorial Services, students’ speech contests in English and Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), and participates in Calgary Multicultural Centre projects.