Northern Virginia is a bustling place for immigrant entrepreneurs, who contribute vitally to the state’s economy with their small businesses.
For the large Asian American communities spread over Washington metro area, the time of filing taxes and judging the worth of businesses coincides with the arrival of Lunar New Year, and the Valentine’s Day is never far away.
So, Asian American Chamber of Commerce, a platform that brings together businesses from dozens of countries, hosted a series of cultural events to greet the New Year.
Image: Asian American Chamber of Commerce
The lively events in the heart of the region – one at the Pentagon Mall and the other at Potomac Mills in Woodbridge – entertained people of all ages and communities who visited the two places.
In several ways. the festive shows of dances and music represented a mix of business and culture in Norther Virginia, where immigrants and minorities make up 52 percent of the population.
“We celebrate this time of the year with vigor and enthusiasm, with traditional cultural shows and new hopes and good luck symbols,” Cindy Shao, President of the Asian American Chamber of Commerce said.
Image: Asian American Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber worked with the Pentagon Mall and the Potomac Mills to showcase the performances by troupes, young children with a thrilling display of animals including dragons and lions.
The Pentagon performances also included songs by Indians.
Virginia is home to thriving communities of immigrants from China, South Kora India and Pakistan. Senator Tim Kaine, a Democrat, recently acknowledged how immigrants have transformed Virginia’s economy with their new ideas and innovation.
In recent months, Chinese show Shen Yun, staged by the highly trained artists at D.C.’s Kennedy Center, has been in the national limelight for the breathtaking dances and aesthetical performances.
But thanks to AACC’s efforts just across the Potomac, colorfully costumed young Asian boys and girls brought joy and thrill to many Virginians who witnessed the free events.
