On the first day of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, the entire New York City Council unanimously passed Resolution No. 0844, declaring May 10th as “Chinese-American Railroad Workers Memorial Day” to honor the significant contributions of Chinese immigrants in the 19th century to the construction of the continental railroad in America. The resolution, proposed by Council Member Ellen Chong and supported by the Council’s Asian Pacific American Alliance, aims to recognize the often overlooked history of these Chinese American railroad workers.
“The contributions of these Chinese American railroad workers are extraordinary, yet they have been largely erased from American history,” said Council Member Ellen Chong. “Their stories are immigrant stories: risking their lives to improve their livelihoods and build America, only to be marginalized and forgotten. Passing this resolution on the first day of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is a meaningful way to enrich New York’s history.”
In the mid-19th century, nearly 12,000 Chinese workers participated in building the transcontinental railroad, which was completed and connected on May 10, 1869, symbolizing the first railway link across North America. These workers not only endured harsh working conditions but also faced discrimination and exclusion, as historical photographs from the completion ceremony intentionally omitted them.
Council Member Linda Lee emphasized, “The contributions of Asian Pacific American immigrants have shaped our city, state, and country. We must acknowledge that these Chinese workers, who faced discrimination and danger, risked their lives to build the foundation of our nation’s infrastructure.”
Council Member Sandra Ung stated, “Their sacrifices led to the development of the American West, connecting the East and West coasts, yet they have long been overlooked in historical records. This resolution is an important step towards correcting this historical omission.”
Council Member Julie Won expressed gratitude towards Council Member Ellen Chong for spearheading the resolution, allowing it to come into effect at the beginning of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. This commemoration not only addresses historical justice but also reflects New York City’s recognition and respect for immigrant contributions.
Council Member Shekar Krishnan added, “Chinese laborers established connections in our country and laid the foundation for many labor rights we enjoy today. I am proud that the City Council honors their legacy.”
Council Member Ellen Chong thanked Council Member Bob Holden, the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), the New York Cantonese Association, the Museum of Chinese in America, the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, the Lin Sing Association, and the Ningyang Association for their support of the resolution.