A Chinese dragon dance, Indian classical music, Indonesian and Korean troupes and Vietnamese fashion walk were all part of a lively cultural show at the Pentagon Mall that uplifted Asian communities worried over spread of coronavirus.
Organized by the Asian American Chamber of Commerce the show marked celebration of Chinese New Year with its bright yellow pageant of dragon and lion, sophistication of Indian classical dance and Vietnamese dresses capturing attention of hundreds of shoppers visiting the Mall Fashion Center.
“We wanted to showcase the best of Asian cultures with their colors and costumes but this year we also wanted to provide an uplifting moment to Asian-Americans in the midst of worrisome news about coronavirus,” Cindy Shao, AACC President.
Women display Vietnamese popular fashion costumes
Shao introduced the meaning and importance of arts, music and dance shows as Americans thronging the Mall on a busy Saturday took seats to watch the performances that included both seasoned artists and young talent.
A break time interlude also saw participation of young African American, Asian and Caucasian girls participate in a circling around game to the tune of drumbeat with gifts awaiting them at each pause of the beat.
“Business is not just about trade, it’s about mutual understanding that helps advance integration and break down barriers and stereotypes,” Shao said.
AACC President Cindy Shao with artistic photographer Elza Daniel
Several Chinese organizations, devastated by the spread of coronavirus from Wuhan city, had canceled the Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations. The flu-causing violence, reportedly transmitted from animals to humans, had caused more than 100 deaths in China by Saturday.
The World Health Organization declared it a global emergency and several airlines were stopping flights to China. The coronavirus also spread a scare within China as people shunned infected individuals and families. The United States has also taken preventive air travel measures to stop spread of the virus as scientists race to discover vaccine to treat the illness it causes.
Meanwhile, several American and world leaders have called for joint efforts to combat the virus and reject any racism or fear-mongering against people of affected countries.
An Indian dance maestro with a group of performers
At the event, speakers also touched on the need to be aware of ways to guard against the virus.
“We need to be aware of information about the virus and take care of each other, and wash hands,” Vance Zavela, a partnership developer at Fairfax County’s Department of Economic Initiatives, who praised the performances at the event, said in his remarks.
Stephanie Shei, chair of the AACC Board, applauded the spirit of the participants and noted the significance of such events affording an opportunity to learn about American diversity and cultural uniqueness.
Todd Jerscheid, Director of Marketing and Business Development Fashion Center at Pentagon City, welcomed the artists and performers representing Asian communities.
Faiffax County Economic Initiative official Vance Zavela speaking at the event
“Let’s take care of our health and also keep going in business and life,” Cindy Shao said, as she wrapped up the show thanked spectators and the Chamber members who arrived from all over Washington metro area to support the event.
