【Fremont, CA】 — In 1973, Nevada became the first U.S. state to officially legalize acupuncture, setting a historic precedent for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in America. This landmark legislation not only laid the groundwork for industry growth and cross-cultural medical exchange but also safeguarded consumer rights and established professional standards, giving future practitioners confidence in the field’s long-term potential. To honor this milestone, California designated October 24 as “Acupuncture Day,” recognizing TCM’s lasting contributions to integrative healthcare.

On July 13, 2025, the American Association of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (AACMA) hosted the 20th International Conference on Traditional Chinese Medicine at the Fremont Conference Center, celebrating the 50th anniversary of acupuncture legalization in California. Five Branches University served as a co-organizer, actively encouraging faculty and students to participate, and led a strong team to support the event with a booth. Activities included a raffle and hands-on demonstrations of Chinese herbal packaging, showcasing the university’s enthusiasm and commitment to promoting Traditional Chinese Medicine.

The conference brought together TCM experts and scholars from the United States, China, and Taiwan. Former California Governor Jerry Brown also delivered a congratulatory speech, recognizing the importance of acupuncture’s legalization and its role in shaping integrative healthcare in the state. AACMA reaffirmed its mission to advance Chinese medicine in American society through advocacy, education, and international collaboration.