Tamim Iqbal:
In a borough as vibrant and multifaceted as Queens, few events capture its spirit quite like the annual Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month celebration, which took place at Queens Borough Hall. Drawing hundreds of families and community leaders from across the borough, the event served as both a joyful celebration and a powerful tribute to the resilience and cultural richness of the AAPI community.
Against the backdrop of a borough defined by its diversity, the evening’s festivities brought together a broad cross-section of Queens’ AAPI residents—from Chinese and Korean families in Flushing, to Filipino communities in Woodside’s Little Manila, to Thai and Bangladeshi neighborhoods in Elmhurst and Jamaica. The gathering was as inclusive as it was vibrant, underscoring the unique fabric that makes Queens, in the words of local officials, “The World’s Borough.”
“Our AAPI community represents the best of what Queens stands for—resilience, creativity, and spirit,” said a borough representative. “From business owners to artists, from parents to students, the contributions of these communities are woven into every part of borough life.”
The evening featured cultural performances, heartfelt remarks, and culinary offerings that reflected the global flavors rooted in Queens’ neighborhoods. The air was filled with music and dance, creating a lively yet heartfelt atmosphere that welcomed guests of all ages. Children in traditional dress performed regional dances while community elders shared stories of migration, perseverance, and progress.
For many in attendance, the event was more than just a celebration—it was an affirmation of identity and belonging. “In today’s world, being seen and heard matters,” said a local Bangladeshi-American attendee from Jamaica. “This event shows our kids that their culture is not only recognized but celebrated.”
The celebration also highlighted how AAPI communities continue to shape the borough’s economic, cultural, and civic life. Small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and educators stood alongside public officials in a demonstration of unity that transcended background and language.
In recent years, the AAPI community in Queens has grown rapidly, becoming one of the most dynamic and influential groups in the borough. With each passing year, this heritage month event has grown in scope and spirit, reflecting both the expanding population and its deepening impact.
Organizers emphasized the importance of celebrating cultural heritage while also addressing the ongoing challenges facing AAPI communities, from language access and economic inequality to combating bias and fostering inclusion.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a shared sense of gratitude and pride. The event was a clear reminder that in Queens, diversity isn’t just celebrated during heritage months—it is embedded in the borough’s identity every day.
With Borough Hall lit up in cultural colors and the sound of celebration echoing into the night, Queens once again affirmed its place as a beacon of multicultural harmony and pride.
For more blogs, visit nyn.press
