Lancy Wu was born in Shanghai, China. She spent her early years as
a nurse before immigrating to the United States. Inspired by her own
struggle to earn her own citizenship, Wu became a well-known
advocate for immigration cases in Savannah, Georgia. Wu and her
husband John owned the Canton Restaurant on Abercorn Street. She
was often found writing letters to immigration officials, feeding
guests at her restaurant, or hosting bingo games at the Chinese
Benevolent Association. Known as Savannah's Chinese Ambassador
without portfolio, she earned city proclamations, the Liberty Bell
Award, the Daughters of the American Revolution Americanism
Gold Medal, three keys to the City of Savannah, and the American
flag flown over the United States Capitol for her service to people.
Lancy Wu dedicated most of her life to standing up for the rights of
people pursuing the American Dream.

Use this History Snapshot to explore Lancy Wu and U.S. Immigration.

Georgia Standards: SS5H1 Describe how life changed in America at the turn of the century. d. Describe the reasons people immigrated to the United States, from where they emigrated, and where they settled.