I was honored to march with Chinatown Together in the 51st Annual Vancouver Chinatown Spring Festival Parade yesterday. It was an experience filled with energy, meaning, and a profound sense of community. Amidst the lively lion dances, rhythmic drumbeats, and gently falling snow, I witnessed firsthand the strength of a community deeply rooted in inclusion, resilience, and shared heritage.

A Meaningful Parade

The Lunar New Year parade in Vancouver is more than just a festival—it is a celebration of history, identity, and community. For generations, Chinatown has been a space of resilience, shaped by those who fought to preserve its cultural and social fabric. Marching with Chinatown Together this year reminded me that this struggle continues, upheld by people committed to keeping Chinatown vibrant, evolving, and welcoming to everyone.

Chinatown Together is not just an advocacy group; it is a movement. It bridges generations, amplifies unheard voices, and actively resists the forces of gentrification threatening this historic neighborhood. What made this experience truly special was the genuine sense of belonging I felt among the people I marched with. Their commitment to inclusion was not just spoken—it was lived.

Conversations That Matter

As we marched, I had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with members of Chinatown Together. Their stories spoke of a Chinatown that is not only about preserving the past but also about shaping a future where everyone—seniors, newcomers, LGBTQ+ individuals, and youth—has a place.

One of the core values of this group is creating spaces where people can be their full, authentic selves. Many of its members are from the LGBTQ+ community, working tirelessly to ensure Chinatown is not just a historic district but a living, breathing space that embraces queer joy, intergenerational connection, and cultural pride. Listening to their stories reinforced my belief in the power of community-led movements and the importance of supporting one another not only during events but in everyday life.

Beyond a March

As we carried banners through the streets, I realized this parade was more than just a celebration—it was a public expression of love for Chinatown and the values that unite us.

It was a powerful reminder that heritage is not static. Chinatown is not merely a relic of the past but an ever-evolving, dynamic place that continues to hold deep significance for new generations. It is a place that serves as both a home for elders and a haven for queer youth, honoring traditions while making room for necessary change.

Shared Values: Chinatown Together and 360 Community

As I reflected on my experience marching with Chinatown Together, I couldn’t help but see how closely their values align with those of 360 Community. Both organizations are dedicated to inclusion, community-building, and creating spaces of belonging—ensuring that all people, regardless of background, have a place where they are seen, supported, and empowered.

Both communities emphasize:

• Inclusion – Making space for people from all walks of life, especially those whose voices are often marginalized or unheard.
• Intergenerational Connection – Building bridges between elders and younger generations, recognizing the strength found in learning from one another.
• Advocacy & Resilience – Standing together against systemic forces that threaten community identity, while working toward a just and thriving future.

Marching with Chinatown Together was a powerful reminder that creating a strong community requires continuous effort. It is not just about preserving history—it’s about ensuring that our neighborhoods remain welcoming, accessible, and vibrant for generations to come. This mirrors the vision of 360 Community, where faith, justice, and collective action come together to make real change.

Moving Forward

The experience of marching with Chinatown Together reaffirmed my commitment to creating and sustaining spaces that remain inclusive, vibrant, and accessible for all. The work does not end with a parade—it continues in the daily efforts to advocate for equity, support marginalized voices, and nurture a community where everyone truly belongs.

As the echoes of the drums fade and the lanterns are taken down, the work continues. Inclusion is not a one-time event; it is an ongoing practice. Chinatown Together reminded me that community is built not just through celebrations but through our daily actions, advocacy, and willingness to listen and learn.

I marched with Chinatown Together this year—but more than that, I stood with them. And I will continue to do so.