Adopted Chinese children and their American parents explore Chinese culture in Chicago

More than 15 children adopted from China and their American parents, siblings attended a cultural event organized by Chinese diplomats in Chicago on Saturday.

The event, "From China to Chicago: A Holiday Gathering & Celebration," was held at the Chinese Consulate General in Chicago and involved several elaborate Chinese culture-related activities, such as Kung fu performance, learning Chinese painting, Chinese zither, playing the game of go, and using chopsticks.

Several Chinese diplomats from the consulate spoke with the families, learning about their stories of raising adopted children while sharing with them Chinese history, culture, tourism and education.

Kindra Dalach, 37, adopted one Chinese girl and one Chinese boy when they were toddlers. Now a mother of six children, Dalach told Xinhua she found the linkage between her and China after she decided to adopt Chinese children.

"My son has a Chinese name 'qiang qiang', which means strong, and he learns everything very fast, even Chinese language," Dalach said.

During the event, children from the Dalach family performed chorus "The Periodic Table Song," which won loud applause.

On their part, the Chinese diplomats invited children of the Sunshine School of the Chinese Consulate General in Chicago to perform chorus "Beijing Opera."

"I would like to thank all of the parents present today for giving your children selfless love, care and understanding, for providing your children with stellar education and opportunities to engage in the cultures of both China and the U.S.," Chinese Consul General in Chicago Zhao Jian said while addressing the event.

"And thank you to all the children, for not only have you brought love and happiness into your families, but have also forged for them a path into the world of China," said Zhao.