On October 5th, Queens, New York celebrated the 113th Double Tenth National Day of the Republic of China with a flag-raising ceremony in Flushing. The theme of this year’s celebration was “Freedom, Democracy, Unity.” Attendees included overseas compatriots from Taiwan as well as new and old immigrants from mainland China.
Mainland compatriots expressed that their presence at the event was to show support for the Republic of China and express their hope for mainland China to one day enjoy the same democratic freedoms as Taiwan.
The weather was crisp and sunny on the playground of Public School 20 in Flushing. Hundreds of compatriots passionately waved the flag of the Republic of China, chanting “Long live the Republic of China” and “Go Taiwan” with pride. The atmosphere was solemn and joyous.
At 9:30 in the morning, after the outstanding performances by the Overseas Youth Volunteer Association (FASCA) and the “Three Princes of Taiwan,” the procession of the Greater New York Area Chinese School Alliance marched in with the American flag and the flag of the Republic of China, followed by the “American Chinese Dream Fantasy Team.” The crowd sang the national anthem of the Republic of China in unison, and as everyone watched, the flag was raised to the singing of the “National Flag Anthem of the Republic of China,” fluttering proudly in the wind.
Attendees at the celebration included Li Zhijiang, Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, State Senator Liu Chunyi, Assemblyman Ron Kim, and Zhu Chaoran, Chairman of the Chinese Public Office. They congratulated the Republic of China on its 113th National Day.
Director Li Zhijiang remarked that he had attended many flag-raising ceremonies in his lifetime, but this was the most vibrant and energetic one he had ever seen. He highlighted Taiwan’s achievement of completing its eighth presidential election, where President Lai Ching-te’s inauguration was congratulated by over 100 countries and 1,600 world leaders, showcasing Taiwan’s accomplishments. He believed that as long as everyone continues to support the Republic of China, tomorrow will be better.
Chairwoman Lin Yingjun of the organizing committee stated in her address that the Double Tenth National Day flag-raising ceremony in Queens had been held for 30 years, never halting even in inclement weather or during the peak of Covid-19. She emphasized the unity of the New York overseas community, transcending political beliefs and colors, always standing together whenever the country, the Republic of China, and Taiwan need support.
Lin Yingjun asserted that Taiwan is a beacon of democracy, contrasting with mainland China, where there is no freedom. Despite the suppression by the mainland’s government, the people there envy Taiwan. She expressed pride in being a citizen of the Republic of China and a Taiwanese. The yearly raising of the flag is a declaration that the Republic of China will endure as long as the belief in democracy and freedom is upheld, showcasing a nation to be admired.
Chairman Zhu Chaoran of the Chinese Public Office mentioned that in April 1911, just months before the successful Xinhai Revolution, Sun Yat-sen came to New York and delivered an inspiring speech at the Chinese Public Office. The organization supports the spirit of freedom represented by the Republic of China, following Sun Yat-sen’s Three Principles of the People. They hold the annual celebration of Double Tenth National Day with a grand parade on October 10th, unwavering in their support for the Republic of China and proudly displaying the flag.
State Senator Liu Chunyi and Assemblyman Ron Kim also expressed their support for Taiwan in their speeches after the flag-raising ceremony.
Following the flag-raising ceremony was the celebration event, which took place outdoors this year. Attendees sang classic songs of the Republic of China such as “Plum Blossoms” and the “Ode to the Republic of China,” escalating the mood to new heights with each rendition.