On June 16th, Father’s Day, the Flushing Chinese Business Association (FCBA) held the first “Happy Dad” event to express respect and blessings to fathers. 26 fathers from three generations took the stage to receive blessings from community representatives and certificates of recognition. Some families who had participated in the “Happy Mom” event had the opportunity to enjoy the honor and joy of the first “Happy Dad” event once again.
After holding the “Happy Mom” event for over a decade, the Flushing Chinese Business Association created the inaugural “Happy Dad” event on Father’s Day. The 81-year-old “Happy Dad” Chen Tiehui sang the “Star-Spangled Banner” to kick off the event. The atmosphere was warm and lively, with the 26 honored fathers ranging in age from 60 to 94, immersed in joy and happiness.
Peter Du, the chief advisor of the Chinese Business Association, stated that fathers are the core of the family, and a father’s love for the family is often more subtle than a mother’s. The traditional Chinese values of “filial piety comes first” and “harmony in the family leads to success in all endeavors” were highlighted. The association aims to spread this sense of community love to all fathers, inspiring children to be grateful for their parents’ sacrifices.
“This event is a recognition of fathers who have made significant contributions to their families and communities,” says Peter Du. Participating in the event were fathers of various backgrounds and ages, reflecting the diversity of the community.
81-year-old Chen Tiehui, known as the “Happy Dad,” expressed his gratitude for being honored at the event. A former prominent media figure and community host, Chen Tiehui shared that his wife was the first “Happy Mom” recognized by the association. Upon hearing about the “Happy Dad” event, he eagerly signed up, saying, “I’m grateful to the association for giving my family two firsts.”
Among the honored fathers was Sun Guoxian, the father of Linda Sun, the former deputy chief of staff for New York State’s diversity office under Governor Hochul. Sun Guoxian, a 74-year-old immigrant since 1990, expressed pride in his daughter Linda, whom he described as his greatest achievement. He instilled Confucian values in her early on, emphasizing kindness and independence.
Linda Sun shared, “I thank my father for his upbringing. His teachings on hard work and helping others have guided me in my path of public service.”
Also present was lawyer Liu Fang, whose father, Liu Chuanzhen, was recognized as a “Happy Dad.” Liu Fang expressed gratitude for her father’s dedication to her education. Despite humble beginnings, her father insisted on her pursuing an education, ultimately enabling her to attend law school. Following her footsteps, her younger siblings are also studying law.
Zhao Yunlan, born in Saigon, Vietnam in 1940, was the oldest honored father at the event. Immigrating in 1989, he emphasized the importance of being a good father and worked diligently to provide for his children. After retiring, he immersed himself in calligraphy and painting, hosting exhibitions and mentoring students. He attributes his longevity to his artistic pursuits and remains active in his creative endeavors at over 90 years old.
Federal, state, and local elected officials attended the event to extend their wishes to the “Happy Dads” for a joyful and healthy Father’s Day. The event welcomed a diverse group of officials, emphasizing the importance of family and community values in celebrating fatherhood.