New York City Councilwoman Susan Zhuang announced on April 8 at City Hall steps the proposal of a resolution to designate May 10th as “Chinese American Railroad Workers Memorial Day” in honor of the Chinese laborers who participated in the construction of the transcontinental railroad connecting the East and West in the United States.
The resolution number is “T2025-3318” and aims to commemorate the significant contributions of Chinese laborers in railroad construction who have long been overlooked by history. Historical records indicate that around 90% of the railroad workers when the U.S. completed the transcontinental railroad in 1869 were Chinese laborers from regions like Taishan in Guangdong. Despite facing dangerous working conditions and harsh weather, they successfully completed the arduous task. However, they were not included in the official records of the inaugural ceremony of that year, and were scarcely mentioned in history textbooks.
“This is not just a proposal for the Chinese community, but for all immigrant communities,” Zhuang remarked. “We cannot forget the contributions of immigrants in history. The accomplishments of Chinese railroad workers, earned through blood, sweat, and tears, are part of American history.”
The proposal has garnered widespread support. Kenny Wong, a member of the New York Chinese American Veterans Association and a descendant of railroad Chinese workers, recounted at the City Hall gathering how his great-grandfather traveled from southern China in 1860 to participate in the railroad project, emphasizing the hardships and significance of this chapter of immigration history. “They risked their lives, blasting through mountains to create paths, with many workers perishing before they could escape the tunnels.”
Hanbeng Leong, Chairman of the United Chinese Association, noted that early railroad Chinese workers mostly came from the Guangdong region, traversing oceans to fulfill daunting tasks for survival. Despite low wages and harsh conditions, they steadfastly built the western segment of the railroad, laying the foundation for modern American transportation. “They are the silent yet undeniable heroes of history,” he stressed, mentioning that many Chinese community organizations continue efforts to honor and remember early immigrants, such as holding memorial ceremonies during Qingming Festival, continuing the respect and commitment to ancestors.
Michael Lee, Director of the Museum of Chinese in America, pointed out that research indicates that Chinese workers back then earned an average daily wage of only $1, far below that of white workers. Despite the unfair treatment, they persevered in completing the transcontinental route east to west. “Their contributions should be remembered; this is not just a historical correction, but also an education for future generations.”
Shao Ling Lo, President of the New York Guangfu Association, speaking as a fifth-generation descendant of a railroad Chinese worker, highlighted that his great-grandfather came to the U.S. in 1864 to participate in the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad. “It was a difficult era, with over 12,000 Chinese workers crossing mountains, digging tunnels, and laying tracks in extreme weather conditions. Many lost their lives, even buried far from their homeland.” He urged the city government to establish a commemorative day to educate more people on how Chinese workers propelled the development of the American West through sweat and sacrifice.
The resolution also gained support from City Council members Mercedes Narcisse and Eric Dinowitz. Narcisse, as a Haitian immigrant, stated, “We must not forget who laid the foundation for this city and country.” Dinowitz emphasized that New York City was constructed by immigrants of various backgrounds and should honor the historical contributions of every ethnic group.
Liping He, Chief of Staff to State Assemblyman Cordon, who attended the rally, stated, “The future of America belongs to all Americans, including Asians.”
The resolution is currently awaiting approval by the New York City Council. If passed, “Chinese American Railroad Workers Memorial Day” would be the first recognition by the New York City Council of the contributions of Chinese individuals to the construction of the American railroad.