On April 30, seven Chinese individuals were arrested by the police for participating in a protest at the homeless shelter at 2134 Coyle Street in Sheep’s Head Bay. With the assistance of several elected Chinese officials, five of them have successfully had their cases dismissed without leaving any criminal record. The other two individuals will have their cases postponed to appear in court again in August and September respectively.
Yesterday, on May 20, the seven individuals, along with their families and neighbors from the 2134 Coyle Street community, returned to the protest site to express their gratitude to State Senator Chen Xueli, State Assemblyman Zheng Yongjia, and City Councilor Zhuang Wenyi for their full support and continued assistance, and reiterated their firm opposition to the homeless shelter project.
It was not only the day the seven individuals appeared in court, but also the special election day for the 22nd District State Senator in Sheep’s Head Bay. Community residents split into two groups, with one team heading to the Manhattan Criminal Court to support the 5 arrestees, and the other team going to the Brooklyn Criminal Court to support the other 2 arrestees, demonstrating the community’s unity and solidarity in action.
Chen Lina, president of the Hua Kang Association, stated that protests are a legitimate way for the community to express their opinions, and the community will continue to resist through various means without compromise. She urged residents to actively participate in the elections, saying, “Please call your neighbors to come out and vote, because these unreasonable things are all instigated by politicians. We need to elect officials who truly represent the community and staunchly oppose the homeless shelter.”
Community representative Andy Wong also emphasized, “We cannot let their sacrifices be in vain. We must stand united and continue to express to the government: we do not want the homeless shelter!”