Lunar New Year Parade Canceled Amid Immigration Fears
PITTSBURGH — The annual Lunar New Year parade in Squirrel Hill has been canceled due to rising concerns over potential immigration enforcement targeting attendees. Maria Cohen, executive director of the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition, stated that the decision was made to ensure the safety of the community, particularly given the recent increase in ICE activities across the nation. This cancellation highlights the ongoing anxieties within the local Asian community, which is the largest in Pittsburgh.
Community Concerns Prompt Cancellation
The decision to cancel the Lunar New Year parade was not taken lightly. “It was a very challenging decision to cancel the Lunar New Year because we very much wanted to celebrate with our community,” Cohen explained in an interview with Pittsburgh’s Action News 4. However, the prevailing climate of fear regarding immigration enforcement made it clear that safety was the top priority this year.
Recent events, including the detention of two men by immigration enforcement officers in Pittsburgh, have heightened fears among residents. Cohen emphasized the importance of the Squirrel Hill neighborhood, noting its significant Asian population. “It’s very important to our neighborhood in Squirrel Hill, especially because we have the largest population of Asian community members anywhere in the city,” she said. The cancellation reflects broader concerns about the impact of immigration policies on community gatherings and celebrations.
Alternative Celebrations and Community Support
While the parade has been canceled, the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition and the OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates are encouraging community members to express their hopes for the new year in a different way. Residents are invited to write their aspirations on red tags, which will be hung on trees in the neighborhood. This initiative aims to foster a sense of unity and hope among community members during a challenging time.
Additionally, local organizations are urging residents to support the Asian community by exploring the diverse Chinese cuisine available throughout Pittsburgh. The Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Center is also a recommended destination for those looking to engage with the culture. For those interested in the arts, the Byham Theater will host a performance of “The Great Race,” bringing the story of the Chinese Zodiac to life on March 14th.
