Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California will commemorate its 40th Anniversary with a series of year-long events that celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
Among its May activities is a special Community Dance at the Lai Lai Ballroom & Studio, in Alhambra.
“We join the residents of Monterey Park and Alhambra for celebration and healing in the wake of the Lunar New Year tragedy — to show the world that we are proud of all of our Asian ancestries, languages and current experiences as Americans,” said Connie Chung Joe, CEO of AJSOCAL, in a statement. “A Community Dance will be an afternoon of joy and we encourage all community residents, AAPIs, allies, family and friends to be there in solidarity.”
The event is hosted in partnership with the Tsay family, including Brandon Tsay – the Lunar New Year hero who on the night of Jan. 21 disarmed Monterey Park mass shooter Huu Can Tran at the Tsay family’s dance studio only minutes after Tran had opened fire inside of Star Ballroom Dance Studio in Monterey Park. Brandon has been recognized by local, state and national leaders for his selfless act of bravery.
“After this tragedy, we want to make this about bringing together people back together,” said Brenda Tsay, Brandon’s sister. “To seize opportunity and bring joy back to the dance world and maybe even those people who are not familiar with dancing.”
Tsay added that all are welcome, and that the ballroom will have security there to ensure visitor’s safety. The free event promises an afternoon of dance, food and music that highlights the pride, strength and resilience of the AAPI community.
The afternoon on Saturday, May 20 will include an open tea dance for all ages along with performances by the dancers of the Lai Lai Ballroom and Star Ballroom as well as the Top Shelf Vocal Group with more to be announced on www.ajsocal.org. The event is sponsored by Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, First District. Additional support was provided by the Panda Restaurant Group, Bopomofo Café and Phoenix Bakery.
