The Dong family, descendants of Chinese immigrants to the United States, are paying tribute to the kindness they received from a Black couple by donating funds from their real estate properties to support Black college students.
The story dates back to 1939 when the Dongs relocated to Coronado, California, seeking a fresh start and hoping to improve their family’s prospects. At that time, the area’s real estate market was marred by racially discriminatory housing laws, making it challenging for the Dongs to find housing. However, their fortunes changed when they encountered Emma and Gus Thompson, a Black couple who were real estate investors. The Thompsons not only allowed the Dongs to rent their home but eventually sold it to them in 1955 after 16 years of rental.
The encounter with the Thompsons left a lasting impression on the Dongs, highlighting the importance of cross-racial solidarity in overcoming systemic barriers. Jo Von M. McCalester, a political science professor at Howard University, emphasized the pervasive nature of racism in California, underscoring the significance of individuals and groups understanding their place in society despite the absence of slavery.
In 1957, the Dongs further solidified their financial stability by tearing down the barn on their property and constructing an apartment complex, providing them with a new source of income.
Now, 81-year-old Lloyd Dong Jr. and his family are preparing to sell the house and complex, estimated to be worth $8 million. In a heartwarming gesture of gratitude, Lloyd and his brother Ron plan to donate $5 million of the proceeds to support Black college students, recognizing the transformative impact the Black community had on their lives. Lloyd expressed his deep appreciation, acknowledging that without the Thompsons’ generosity, their educational opportunities and subsequent success would not have been possible.
The connection between the Dongs and the Thompsons runs deep, rooted in shared experiences of migration and the pursuit of a better life on the West Coast. Both families, originating from Kentucky, sought opportunities in California, with Gus Thompson securing employment at Hotel Del Coronado in the late 1800s.
Recognizing the challenges faced by newcomers of color in a predominantly white neighborhood, Gus took action by converting his property’s barn into a boarding house, providing a haven for individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.
Ron and Janice Dong, both former educators, understand the transformative power of knowledge and believe in the importance of supporting educational opportunities for all. Their decision to contribute to Black college students reflects their commitment to giving back to the community and empowering individuals to achieve their goals.
For Janice and the Dong family, the opportunity to assist students in pursuing higher education is a source of joy and fulfillment, knowing that their contribution could make a significant difference in someone’s life.
In a broader context, their act of generosity serves as a powerful example of taking meaningful action without expecting anything in return. Amid ongoing discussions about reparations for the Black community, the Dongs’ gesture demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing systemic inequalities and promoting social justice.
McCalester highlights the significance of the Dongs’ contribution, framing it as a tangible manifestation of support for the Black community and a reminder of the importance of collective action in creating positive change.