Borough President Antonio Reynoso hosted a Lunar New Year celebration at Brooklyn Borough Hall on Friday night, ushering in the Year of the Horse with cultural performances, traditional food and a large group of community members.
Held in partnership with UA3, Wonton Food Inc. and Council Member Susan Zhuang, the celebration brought together Brooklynites to honor the traditions of the borough’s diverse Asian communities. The evening also featured a traditional lion dance performed by the TaiShun Du Hu Association of America.
In a statement, Reynoso said the celebration honored “renewal, family and community.”
“That’s exactly what this evening is all about,” he said. “The Horse represents strength and energy, both of which help capture the vibrancy of our borough’s AAPI communities. I was overjoyed to see so many Brooklynites join our festivities, and I am so thankful to our partners for helping bring this event to life.”
Lunar New Year marks the start of the new year on the lunar calendar and the arrival of spring. According to the Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Horse represents vitality, independence and forward movement.
“What a way to welcome the Year of the Horse, Don Hong, president of UA3, said in a statement. UA3, a nonprofit food pantry, provides “fresh, healthy and culturally appropriate food, as well as PPEs to our community members in need, regardless of their income, background, or circumstances.”
“The event highlights the spirit of unity that defines the community, emphasizing how community members show up for one another, move with purpose and continue pushing forward together,” Hong added.
Catherine Chen, CEO of the Asian American Federation, also spoke of the celebration’s importance.
“Brooklyn is home to fast-growing, vibrant Asian communities, and the Asian American Federation is honored to join Borough President Antonio Reynoso, UA3, and all our local partners in celebrating the traditions and cultural heritage that make our neighborhoods so special,” she said. “With UA3 and other Hope Against Hate partners, we are working to educate our communities and ensure they have the necessary resources and support as we navigate the threats to immigrant New Yorkers.”
Wonton Food, the largest manufacturer of noodles, wrappers and fortune cookies in the U.S., helped cater the event. CEO Norman Wong said he was proud to be part of Brooklyn’s rich cultural traditions.
“This special occasion brings families and communities together while honoring the cultures, traditions, and hardworking individuals whose contributions continue to strengthen our borough,” he said. “As a family-founded company with deep roots in Brooklyn, Wonton Food is honored to support the Brooklyn Borough President’s Lunar New Year celebration.”
