BRI empowers Chin communities in Maryland through cultural preservation and educational programs. Key initiatives include Chin New Year Celebrations to maintain cultural traditions, financial literacy education, community gardens, soccer tournaments, and college preparation programs. BRI also provides referrals to immigration attorneys for immigration-related issues.
The Chin New Year—called “Tho” in Hakha, “Khuado” in Zomi, and “Fanger” in Falam—originated as a harvest festival. On March 17, 1949, the Chin Affairs Council officially designated October 26-28 as the holiday dates. It was celebrated in Chin State until General Ne Win’s 1962 military coup. CAM (now known as BRI) has organized annual Chin New Year events since 2019 in Maryland.
BRI also recognizes Chin youth admitted to top universities including Harvard, Yale, Stanford, and the University of Pennsylvania.
