To celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, the Flushing Chinese Business Promotion Association announced on April 16th that in addition to continuing the tradition of hosting the “Happy Mom” event on Mother’s Day, they will also be celebrating Father’s Day by holding the first annual “Happy Dad” event on the actual day of Father’s Day. Both events will be held separately and are open for registration to happy dads and moms who feel blissful being with three generations of family.
The chairman of the Flushing Chinese Business Association, Wang Yaoming, and the chief advisor, Peter Tu, stated that in order to promote the traditional Chinese virtues of filial piety and respect for the elderly, the association has been organizing the “Happy Mom” event on Mother’s Day since 2010. This year marks the 13th anniversary of the event.
Peter Tu mentioned that it seems like Mother’s Day receives more attention compared to Father’s Day. Last year, a member of the community questioned why only Mother’s Day is celebrated and why Father’s Day is overlooked. He found this perspective valid, leading to the decision to organize the first “Happy Dad” event this year separately from “Happy Mom.” They are inviting happy dads from three generations to celebrate Father’s Day together and will be presenting certificates from elected officials and representatives, along with a precious family photo album. Married couples from three generations are welcome to apply together. Although it may cost more for the association, promoting filial piety and encouraging children to care for and respect their parents will create cherished memories for families.
Queens District Attorney Melida Katz and Deputy Commissioner of Community Services, Gu Yaming from the Mayor’s Office of New York, attended the press conference to express their support. Katz shared that she lost her mother when she was three years old, and her father, the founder and conductor of the Queens Symphony Orchestra, single-handedly raised four children. Due to her personal experience, she expressed deep gratitude towards the Flushing Chinese Business Association for not only continuing the “Happy Mom” event but also initiating the “Happy Dad” event, which showcases the association’s compassion. Gu Yaming, who is eligible to participate in the “Happy Dad” event, hopes that the tradition of filial piety, honoring parents, and harmonious families can be upheld, believing that every day should be Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
Representatives from Governor Hochul’s office, Congressman Meng Zhaowen, State Assemblyman Kim Doo-sik, and City Councilor Huang Min-yi also sent delegates to attend the press conference to show their support.
The events will take place at New Mulan Restaurant on the second floor of the “Leap Queens Building” at 136-20 39th Avenue in Flushing, on Mother’s Day (May 12, Sunday) and Father’s Day (June 16, Sunday) at 12:00 PM.
Registration requirements include being from three generations and feeling blissful, with mothers and fathers who have not previously participated in the event. Registration forms can be obtained from the Flushing Chinese Business Association office; the deadline for registration is April 30th. The address of the association is 4048 Main St #302, Flushing, NY 11354; contact number: 718-353-2320.