In 1993, record floods swept through the states of Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Kansas, Missouri, and Minnesota. Out of compassion for the people’s suffering, Supreme Master Ching Hai sent a relief team from our Association and lovingly contributed US$170,000 in humanitarian aid.
The following year, on February 22, 1994, the governments of six American states and the World Cultural Communication Association hosted a splendid gala in Chicago, Illinois to thank and recognize Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her immense kindness. Attended by dignitaries and journalists, the award ceremony included the presentation of the World Spiritual Leadership Award, the unveiling of five bronze statues of the Honoree, speeches of gratitude by the representatives of each US state, and the official proclamation of February 22 as Supreme Master Ching Hai Day. In addition, congratulatory letters were read aloud from then US President His Excellency Bill Clinton and former presidents, Their Excellencies George H. W. Bush and Ronald Reagan.
After the official ceremony, a cultural entertainment program by our Association members was presented for the 2,000 guests, who then requested with warm applause for Supreme Master Ching Hai to sing some of Her own compositions. Ever gracious and delightful throughout the proceedings, Supreme Master Ching Hai obliged, and the evening culminated in an exuberant and uplifting celebration of love.
At the end of the evening, Supreme Master Ching Hai caringly contributed an additional US$450,000 to the six states to further assist in their flood recovery efforts, bringing the total donation amount to US$620,000.
