9621 Agnes Crossing, Lake Suzanneview, New Mexico Island 84604-9295.
Controversy Surrounds Chinatown’s Veterans Day Parade On November 10, a day before the official Veterans Day holiday, New York City’s Chinatown hosted a parade to honor Chinese American
On November 10, a day before the official Veterans Day holiday, New York City’s Chinatown hosted a parade to honor Chinese American veterans. Organized by the American Legion Lt. B. R. Kimlau Chinese Memorial Post 1291, the event celebrated the contributions of Chinese American veterans to U.S. military history. However, the parade also sparked discussions on the broader recognition of Asian American service in the U.S. military.
Chinese American veterans have served in U.S. military forces for generations. From World War II to the most recent Middle Eastern conflicts, they have often fought with courage yet little recognition. Many say it’s high time these veterans are acknowledged. A local organizer shared, “Chinese Americans have served with honor, yet their stories are often overlooked.” This statement resonated with spectators who gathered to celebrate the event.
The parade started at 1 p.m. from the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association (CCBA) headquarters in Manhattan, continuing through Chinatown’s bustling streets before reaching the historic Kimlau Memorial Arch. This arch, located in Chatham Square, commemorates Chinese Americans who died in service to the U.S. Crowds lined the sidewalks, waving flags and showing gratitude as veterans marched. The route held deep meaning for participants. The historic streets of Chinatown echoed with cheers and applause.
However, some onlookers raised concerns that the parade highlighted only a small part of the Asian American community’s contributions. They suggested that broader, more inclusive events could better represent the diversity of Asian American veterans. “The parade is amazing,” said one attendee, “but we need more visibility for other Asian American groups too.”
Several community leaders and public officials attended the event, underscoring the importance of honoring veterans. CCBA Chairman Zhu Chaoran, Eastern U.S. Chinese Association President Liang Hanben, and Zhang Lixian, Deputy Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, expressed their support. New York State Senator Brian Kavanagh, State Assemblymember Grace Lee, and City Councilmember Christopher Marte also participated, applauding veterans for their service and dedication.
“The sacrifice of these veterans deserves our respect,” said State Senator Kavanagh. Their presence emphasized the increasing recognition of Chinese Americans in civic and military service.
Yet, others voiced concerns that while elected officials often attend these events, legislative action to support veterans is still lacking. “We need more than appearances,” noted a veteran advocate. “Policy changes would make a real difference.”
For many Chinese Americans, the parade not only celebrated veterans but also symbolized cultural pride and resilience. As veterans and supporters marched through Chinatown, the event became a reflection of both tradition and progress. One parade organizer remarked, “This parade is a reminder of our roots and our contributions to this nation.”
Some attendees, however, questioned whether traditional parades were the most effective way to honor veterans. They suggested exploring modern forms of recognition, such as digital memorials and educational campaigns. “We need to connect with younger generations,” said a parade attendee in his twenties. “These stories deserve to reach everyone, especially online.”
Chinese Americans have a long, complex history with the U.S. military. Despite discrimination, Chinese American veterans have served in conflicts dating back to the Civil War. But recognition has often lagged behind their contributions. Many veterans in attendance wore medals and uniforms symbolizing their years of service.
While the parade highlighted these contributions, some critics argue that the narrative around Asian American veterans remains incomplete. “We need a more comprehensive approach,” said a historian attending the event. “The stories of Filipino, Japanese, and Korean veterans are also part of this history.” This perspective reflects a broader movement within the Asian American community for intersectional recognition.
Despite the differing opinions, the parade fostered a sense of unity and pride among attendees. As the veterans marched past local landmarks, the crowd’s cheers reflected a community grateful for its heroes. “We are proud of our veterans,” said a community leader, adding that the parade also served as an important reminder of the need for support for all Asian American veterans.
Still, many feel more can be done to ensure these stories reach a wider audience. The suggestion of a broader event that includes multiple Asian American communities continues to gain support. As one local journalist observed, “This could be a chance to honor all Asian American veterans, from various communities, in one unified event.”
Although Veterans Day parades bring people together to honor military service, advocates argue that more substantive actions are needed. Veterans’ groups have called for policies that address mental health, housing, and job opportunities for returning service members. A representative from a local veterans’ organization commented, “Parades are symbolic, but we need practical support systems.”
“It’s time for policies that truly support veterans,” added another advocate, stressing that public appreciation should extend to meaningful legislative efforts.
The Chinese American Veterans Parade in Chinatown highlighted the deep history of Chinese Americans in U.S. military service, with many attendees proud to see this recognition grow. However, it also underscored the broader conversation about honoring all Asian American veterans and the need for tangible support for returning service members.
While the parade provided an opportunity to celebrate Chinese American veterans, it also prompted important discussions about representation, inclusivity, and the need for action beyond ceremonies. As the country reflects on Veterans Day, events like this remind us of the ongoing journey toward comprehensive recognition and support for all who have served.
