“Let us carry on the legacy of our immigrant ancestors and pass it down to future generations, while working together for Korea and the Korean community.”

Descendants of independence activists and early Korean immigrants gathered to commemorate Liberation Day, reuniting after a long time. The significance of the gathering was further emphasized as it took place at the historically important location of the "First Korean Church Established on the U.S. Mainland," a place where many of their ancestors once worshipped, coming together after the passing of Ralph Ahn, the fifth son of Dosan Ahn Chang-ho, who had served as a central figure among the descendants of early immigrants.

The "Pioneer Council," an organization of descendants of independence activists and early immigrants (led by President Alex Jang), held its first annual luncheon event since the COVID-19 pandemic on August 17 at the LA Korean United Methodist Church, in commemoration of the 79th Liberation Day. Approximately 160 descendants, families, and members of patriotic organizations attended the event. Anna Ahn, the wife of the late Ralph Ahn (Ahn Pil-young), who passed away in 2022, also attended and shared heartfelt embraces with other descendants in a touching reunion.

Ralph Ahn, the youngest son of Dosan Ahn Chang-ho, was an active member of the Korean community who worked tirelessly to honor and continue the legacy of his father and other immigrant ancestors who devoted their lives to Korea's independence. He passed away on February 26, 2022. Anna Ahn expressed mixed emotions, saying, "It's a bittersweet day. I feel sadness because Ralph Ahn is not here today, but I also feel joy to be in this special place where descendants of independence activists and early immigrants can share their stories and be together." She added, "Although I was not born Korean, my heart is Korean. Today is a very important day for me as well."

Alex Jang, President of the Pioneer Council, stated, "This is a meaningful day where the children, families, and friends of independence activists and pioneers of the immigrant community can come together to reflect on and celebrate history. We are immensely proud of our ancestors and hope that we too can contribute to Korea and the Korean community."

During the event, attendees reflected on the history and significance of the LA Korean United Methodist Church, the first Korean church on the U.S. mainland, which had a close connection with both the Korean American community and the Korean independence movement. The church was founded in 1904 by American missionary Frances Sherman, who had been sent to Korea's Honam region as a medical missionary. Some descendants also shared their personal stories and thoughts about Korea during the gathering.

<Hyungseok Han>