The Chinese community in Seattle, Washington came together this Lunar New Year to not only celebrate the holiday, but also to remember a dark moment in their history: the Seattle riot of 1886. This event, which occurred over a hundred years ago, still holds important lessons that are relevant to our society today. Organizers of a commemoration march have emphasized the importance of acknowledging and learning from this past in order to create a better future. VOA’s Natasha Mozgovaya has more on this meaningful gathering.
On February 12th, as Seattle was bustling with festivities for the Lunar New Year, the Chinese community paused to pay tribute to their ancestors who were forcibly expelled from the city in 1886. During this time, anti-Chinese sentiment was rampant in the United States, and Seattle was no exception. Mobs of people took to the streets, targeting Chinese immigrants and their businesses. In the midst of the chaos, many Chinese were forced to leave their homes, leaving behind their belongings and livelihoods.
The commemoration march, organized by the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience, aimed to not only honor the victims of the Seattle riot, but also to shed light on the issues of discrimination and exclusion that are still prevalent in our society today. As the Chinese community marched through the streets, they held banners with powerful messages such as “Never Forget” and “United Against Racism”. These words serve as a reminder that despite the progress we have made, there is still work to be done in addressing discrimination and promoting inclusivity.
Members of the Chinese community who participated in the march shared their personal connections to the event. For some, it was a way to honor their ancestors who were directly impacted by the Seattle riot. For others, it was a call to action to stand up against discrimination in all forms. One marcher, 86-year-old Wing Luke, shared his own experience of being discriminated against as a child and how it has motivated him to fight against injustice.
The significance of this commemoration march goes beyond just remembering a past event. It serves as a powerful message of hope and resilience, and a reminder to never repeat past mistakes. As we continue to face issues of discrimination and exclusion, it is important to look back and learn from our history in order to create a better future for all.
One of the organizers of the march, Cassie Chinn, highlighted the importance of remembering the Seattle riot and its lessons for our society today. “We can’t just celebrate Lunar New Year and ignore the struggles that people have gone through in the past,” she stated. “We have to remember that and carry that message forward.”
The commemoration march also brought attention to the rich history and contributions of the Chinese community in Seattle. Despite facing discrimination and hardships, Chinese immigrants have played a crucial role in shaping the city and its culture. From building the railroad to creating successful businesses, the Chinese community has left an indelible mark on Seattle.
As the march came to an end, participants gathered together to reflect and honor the victims of the Seattle riot. It was a moment of unity and solidarity, as people from all walks of life came together to commemorate an event that still holds much significance today.
The commemoration march serves as a powerful reminder that as a society, we must strive towards inclusivity and acceptance. It is only by acknowledging and learning from our past that we can create a better, more equitable future for all. As we move forward, may the lessons from the Seattle riot of 1886 continue to guide us in creating a more just and united society.
