Recently, New York Queens Borough President Donovan Richards held a celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage, at the Helen Marshall Cultural Center in Queens Borough Hall. The celebration included multiple musical and dance performances from local cultural organizations, food and remarks from Richards and other Queens leaders.
Source: Donovan Richards Facebook Page
The AAPI Heritage Celebration served as an important platform for individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds to come together and share their unique cultural traditions and emotional connections. The event featured a vibrant array of performances, including Korean group dance and Indian solo dance, each showcasing the rich cultural heritage of their respective communities.
Solo piece, “Rhythm”
Dance with Long Fan
Source: Donovan Richards Facebook Page
Renowned New York-based Chinese dancer Lu Wang was invited to perform her solo piece, “Rhythm.” This performance, a classic example of traditional Chinese long fan dance, captivated the audience with its graceful and powerful movements, seamlessly blending the principles of yin and yang. Wang’s performance embodied the essence of rhythm, demonstrating how it can be perceived through the body’s interaction with the fan. The dance, characterized by a harmonious fusion of strength and breath, body and mind, allowed the audience to experience the nuanced variations in wind speed through the fan’s movements, merging these physical sensations with deep emotional expression.
Wang said, “While people may speak different languages and come from varied backgrounds, sharing art creates a universal emotional bond, enabling mutual growth and understanding. I see art as a bridge and a language that connects people, revealing the beauty of diversity. The interaction between different cultures not only broadens our perspectives but also generates new and unique forms of expression.”
The celebration of AAPI Heritage Month is vital in highlighting the contributions and rich cultural heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Events like these promote understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultural landscape that shapes our society, underscoring the significance of embracing and celebrating our differences.
