Despite their infamous history, the clubs nowadays are mostly hangouts for retirees who gather to read Chinese newspapers, chat, play mah-jongg or enjoy a meal together. Many of the clubs continue to provide the mutual aid that was a necessity back when Chinese immigrants were excluded from mainstream society, helping members in need of a loan or funeral expenses.
The Lee club has more than 400 members. But they, like those at other Chinatown clubs, worry about the future. Their children and grandchildren, who stop by Lunar New Year parties and other celebrations, see no need to join the roster.
"The perception is they don't need social or economic help. They're assimilated," said Ernest Lee, 72, a retired aerospace engineer who sat at a table with three friends — all with the last name Lee. "It's like a puzzle — how do you recruit them so our mission stays alive?"
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