The importance of a ceremony celebrated by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce holds even more weight this year.
Before the pandemic, it may have been just another party. But Friday's swearing-in ceremony officiated by Mayor London Breed and held at Far East banquet hall had a special meaning.
Amid COVID-19 devastation and the movement to stop anti-Asian hate, it was particularly important that members of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce were able to rejoice inside, surrounded by family at one of Chinatown’s oldest banquet halls.
"The banquet hall is such an important part of the Chinese Culture," said Chamber member Harlan Wong. "This is where a lot of the family associations, a lot of the organizations hold their meetings, their gatherings, and that’s where everybody gets together and socializes."
With COVID-19 previously forcing the closure of these banquets, Wong likened Chinatown to a "ghost town."
"Without the banquet hall, Chinatown is just quiet, dead," he explained.
It had been feared that Far East restaurant might not survive COVID-19, as many of the old favorite banquets had been refurbished into high-end restaurants during the pandemic. That’s why it was extra special to be able to hold the Chamber’s official swearing-in ceremony with tables full of people sharing a meal.
"We’re finally able to get together," said Wong. "We’re finally able to open up the city."
Police Chief Bill Scott was in attendance at the event. To Scott, it was important to give his support after everything this community has been through.
"I think they were the first out to really be vocal about anti-Asian hate," he said.
"We’re resilient. And we will celebrate," assured Wong.
As Assemblymember David Chiu simply put it:
"Chinatown is back."
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