The past year brought not only a pandemic but also mobilized many to speak up and spread awareness about racial violence and injustice. On May 21, 2021, from 7PM-9PM, AAPI Montclair will be honoring the victims of racial violence and injustice, by lighting up Edgemont Memorial Park, located in Montclair, with over a thousand white paper lanterns. The rain date for the event will be May 22nd, 2021, and masks and social distancing will be required.
The lantern festival will honor all lives, present, and past, that have been a victim of racism whether it be violence or racism that was heightened because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The festival will consist of live musical performances, food trucks, and community leader speakers. The lanterns will be able to have special messages and also names for dedication.
Read More: Asian-Owned Businesses to Support in Montclair
Admission to the Lantern Festival is free, but donations are appreciated by AAPI Montclair, and amounts beyond the cost of the lanterns will be split between the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and Asian Americans Advancing Justice. The program is funded by members of AAPI Montclair and lantern sponsorships at givebutter.com/lanternfest.
AAPI Montclair has over 300 members of both Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The organization encourages members to share stories and work as one for the AAPI community.
“Just as we cannot limit our advocacy as parents to our own children, but must commit to advancing equity and anti-racism for all children, so we cannot grieve for our Asian American sisters and elders without mourning those killed,” event co-lead Amber Reed said via a press release. “After a year with few opportunities to mark loss in fellowship with each other, we felt a deep need to extend our love to the wider community through this evening of beauty, remembrance, and solidarity.”
See More: Resources to Help Support Asian Communities Locally
At aapimontclair.org you can RSVP for the event, donate, and learn more about AAPI Montclair.
See here for resources to help the Asian community and see here for a list of Asian-owned businesses to support in Montclair.
