WHEREAS, the City of Richmond is a community enriched by the diverse cultural backgrounds and traditions of its residents, and
WHEREAS, the Lunar New Year, also known as Spring Festival, marks the first new moon of the lunisolar calendars traditional to many East Asian countries, including China, Korea, Vietnam, and others, symbolizing the beginning of spring and a new year ahead, and
WHEREAS, this auspicious occasion is celebrated with various customs such as family reunions, the giving of red envelopes (lucky money), traditional foods, dragon and lion dances, and fireworks, all of which signify the expulsion of the old and the welcoming of the new, prosperity, and good health, and
WHEREAS, the Lunar New Year encourages reflection, renewal, and the strengthening of familial and community ties, promoting values such as respect for elders, kindness, and the aspiration for harmony and happiness in the year to come, and
WHEREAS, Richmond's celebration of the Lunar New Year reflects our city's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that honors the traditions and contributions of all its inhabitants, thereby enriching our collective cultural heritage and understanding,
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mayor Eduardo Martinez, on behalf of the Richmond City Council, hereby declare February 10th, 2024, as a day of cultural celebration and recognition throughout our city in honor of the Lunar New Year. I encourage all residents to engage in and support the Lunar New Year festivities, to educate themselves about the cultural traditions it represents, and to embody the spirit of renewal and community unity that it signifies.
Proclamation Celebrating the Lunar New Year 2024
______________________________
Mayor Eduardo Martinez
City of Richmond
February 20, 2024
______________________________
Cesar Zepeda
District 2 Councilmember
City of Richmond