WHEREAS, The Mid-Autumn Festival, or the Moon Festival, is a major traditional Chinese holiday, falling on the 15th day of the 8th month in the Chinese lunar calendar, and is also celebrated in many other East Asian and Southeast Asian countries; and
WHEREAS, The Mid-Autumn Festival honors the harvest and prosperity, gathers family and friends, remembers loved ones, and celebrates joy and hopeful wishes; and
WHEREAS, The Mid-Autumn Festival celebration in Philadelphia’s Chinatown brings together communities from all backgrounds to share tradition, celebrate harmony, and symbolize unity; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia’s Chinatown was founded 150 years ago as a haven for Asian American immigrants to uphold their heritage and share their culture; and
WHEREAS, Since then, Philadelphia’s Chinatown thrives as a bustling and vibrant community of Asian American and Pacific Islanders, with families with origins beyond China; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community is a vital part of our City, bringing together unique perspectives and experiences that diversify and enhance Philadelphia as a whole. Their presence is a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and the power of diverse voices in shaping our future; and
WHEREAS, As we celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, we embrace its spirit by appreciating the rich cultural tapestry that binds us and sharing hopes of peace, happiness, and a stronger sense of community; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby recognize September 17, 2024 as the Mid-Autumn Festival and recognize the cultural and historical significance of Philadelphia’s Chinatown.