I lived in Hong Kong for several years and visited China many times. I think an "American Quilt" would be very appropriate, as it will mean you are sharing part of your culture, which is quite an honour. I wouldn't use Asian inspired prints (particularly writing or words as someone mentioned earlier), also I would avoid any religious/christian motifs (I mean no offence with this last thing....it is a reality communist China does not encourage/endorse these beliefs).
Thanks for posting, it has been interesting reading...and I am sure you will come up with a beautiful quilt, which we would all love to see.