[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 33 (Friday, February 22, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E197]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNZING THE BETTER CHINATOWN USA LUNAR NEW YEAR PARADE 20TH YEAR 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 22, 2019

  Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 20th 
Anniversary of the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade in New York City 
organized by the Better Chinatown USA. The Lunar New Year is the most 
important traditional event celebrated for thousands of years by Asian 
and Pacific Islanders in New York and around the world. This is a time 
to pay homage to one's ancestors, enjoy family reunions, great food and 
other traditions.
  The Better Chinatown USA, a community volunteer-based organization, 
is dedicated to bringing people together and providing services that 
promote the culture, tradition and contributions of Chinese Americans 
in New York. In the aftermath of 9/11, the parade helped launch the 
economic rebound of Chinatown's small business community. The event 
started with just 500 marchers and a local Chinatown audience but has 
grown to encompass more than 20,000 participants, 80 floats, lion and 
dragon dances, acrobats and marching bands. Today, the parade draws 
more than half a million spectators from the East Coast and abroad.
  Better Chinatown USA has enriched the cultural fabric of my district 
and New York City. Festivals like these showcase the strength and 
diversity of our immigrant neighborhoods. That is why I am proud to 
represent the Manhattan and Brooklyn Chinatown communities.
  Madam Speaker, as we mark the Year of the Pig, please join me in 
congratulating the Better Chinatown USA Lunar New Year Parade on its 
20th year anniversary and for its public service to the New York 
community. I wish them continued success.