Photo credit: Ben Krantz Studios, Oakland, California

Debbie Chinn

A proud daughter of Chinese immigrants, Debbie was born and raised on Long Island, New York. The seeds of her philanthropic career were sown in her family’s famous Polynesian nightclub. It may sound improbable, but it is true.

 

Dancing In Their Light

The Film Project

Dancing in Their Light” was published in March, 2022. Readership response has been, and continues to be, enthusiastic. Debbie’s speaking engagements and Meet the Author talks have revealed a fervent and urgent interest in moving her story from the page to a larger viewership.


About Debbie Chinn

Author

The world of popular Polynnesian nightclubs with floor shows - and Debbie's role as an exotic hula and sword dancer at her parent's club - is brought to vivid life in her new book - Dancing in Their Light: A Daughter’s Unfinished Memoir - which traces the author’s lineage back 13 generations and features more than 170 rare family photos.

Advocate

Debbie has helped dozens of organizations doing exceptional work to heal our society and bridge our cultural differences.

Media & Press

Debbie has made media appearances over the years both as an outspoken Arts Leader, a member of the Bay Area’s dynamic AAPI community, and the acclaimed author of her debut novel Dancing In Their Light.

History in Photos

Here are some snapshots from my family photo album over the years.