Staten Island, NY – New York State Assembly Deputy Majority Leader Charles D. Fall hosted a historic Lunar New Year Celebration at IS 27 on Staten Island, bringing together families, students, community leaders, and cultural organizations to celebrate the Year of the Horse and recognize the traditions and contributions of Staten Island’s growing Asian community.

The celebration was organized in partnership with the New York State Assembly Majority and the New York City Department of Education, along with numerous community organizations across Staten Island. The event featured cultural performances, community recognition, and the presentation of citations honoring leaders and organizations whose work continues to strengthen the borough’s Asian community.

“Lunar New Year is rooted in family, heritage, and traditions that have shaped communities for generations,” said Assemblyman Charles D. Fall. “I was proud to host this celebration on Staten Island in partnership with the New York State Assembly Majority and so many incredible community organizations. Staten Island’s Asian community continues to grow and play an important role in the future of our borough, and it was important to bring families and neighbors together to celebrate this special occasion. The Year of the Horse symbolizes strength, perseverance, and forward momentum, and that spirit is embodied by the Asian community here on Staten Island.”

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie highlighted the significance of recognizing the holiday across New York.

“Lunar New Year is a vibrant and meaningful celebration for Asian families across New York, honoring generations of tradition, resilience and cultural pride. I commend the Staten Island community for hosting what marks the borough’s first Lunar New Year celebration of this kind, bringing families, neighbors and community leaders together in unity and joy. The New York State Assembly has taken meaningful steps to recognize the importance of this holiday, including passing legislation to establish Lunar New Year as a statewide public-school holiday so that no child has to choose between attending school and honoring their heritage. I thank Assemblymember Charles Fall and our community partners for their leadership in organizing this historic event, and I wish everyone a healthy, happy and prosperous Year of the Horse.”

State Senator John Liu added:

“Lunar New Year is a time to celebrate the generations of families whose traditions, values, and hard work have strengthened our communities and enriched our nation. The Year of the Horse reminds us that America is at its best when we move forward with courage, curiosity, and determination to embrace the future. Wishing all a healthy, joyful, and prosperous Lunar New Year.”

Assemblymember Grace Lee, Chair of the Asian Pacific American Task Force, said:

“When I fought to make Lunar New Year a statewide holiday, an event like today's is exactly what I envisioned – people from all over New York celebrating Asian culture together. This progress did not happen by accident. It happened because of advocacy, partnership, and because of leaders like Assemblymember Charles Fall choosing to stand with Asian New Yorkers. I’m grateful to Assemblymember Fall for bringing this Lunar New Year celebration to Staten Island and for his support of our community.”

Staten Island District Attorney Michael E. McMahon also shared his appreciation for the community celebration.

“Staten Island is proud of its burgeoning Chinese American population, and their commitment to our community only enriches the cultural tapestry that makes our beloved borough so special. As we come together to celebrate Lunar New Year, I would like to wish all who celebrate a peaceful, prosperous and plentiful Year of the Horse, and I would like to thank Aurora Genesis, the North American Chinese Athletic Association, Assemblymember Charles Fall, and this year’s honorees for their partnership and dedication to making Staten Island the best place to call home in all of the five boroughs!”

Community leaders echoed the importance of celebrating cultural heritage and strengthening community ties.

“The Chinese Society of Staten Island is deeply honored to be recognized as a citation honoree at this year’s Lunar New Year celebration,” said Gary Tai, Chairman of the Chinese Society of Staten Island. “We are delighted to work alongside our community in celebrating this meaningful cultural tradition. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with elected officials, community leaders, and organizations across Staten Island to expand services, strengthen partnerships, and provide more resources and benefits to the families we serve. Together, we can build a stronger and more vibrant community for all.”

Vanessa Leung, Co-Executive Director of the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF), added:

“As a lifelong Staten Islander, this honor is deeply personal for me. Celebrating the Lunar New Year alongside so many community leaders from my home borough reflects the incredible growth and vibrancy of Staten Island’s AAPI community over the course of my lifetime. I am truly grateful to Assemblymember Fall for this honor. The Year of the Fire Horse symbolizes transformative change and renewal – qualities that are essential during this pivotal moment for New York. CACF advocates statewide with community-based organizations who work tirelessly to ensure immigrant and AAPI New Yorkers have the resources they need to thrive despite increasing uncertainty. This year, my hope is for a Staten Island where all neighbors – regardless of the language they speak or where they were born – can truly flourish.”

The event also recognized Aurora Genesis for its dedication to strengthening neighborhoods and supporting young people and families through youth initiatives and community-based programs that create opportunities for learning, connection, and growth.