During these days in the United States, many five-star red flags are flying in Chinatown, especially in San Francisco, the largest Chinese community in North America, making one feel as if they have crossed into another country.
Here, elegant Chinese architecture and Chinese signs abound, and faces of Chinese descent can be seen everywhere, with the most eye-catching being the grand parade celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.
In the event, a nearly thousand-member team of Chinese individuals, accompanied by the sounds of gongs and drums, lion dances, and dragon dances, showcases a strong festive atmosphere.
This event is jointly organized by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of the United States and multiple organizations. Participants raised the national flag and sang the national anthem at Garden Corner Square before beginning the parade.
Not only in San Francisco, but Chinatowns across the country are also holding celebrations during this time.
There are about 40 Chinatowns nationwide, with those in San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and Seattle being the most famous.
On National Day, these Chinatowns will be filled with red flags, displaying the love and longing that Chinese people have for their homeland.
Some might question how it is possible to love one's country while having immigrated to the United States, seeing it as a contradiction.
However, a deeper understanding of the history and reality of Chinese Americans reveals that many do not see patriotism and immigration as opposing concepts.
The feelings for their homeland are deeply rooted in their hearts, influenced by traditional education and considerations of their current lives.
Firstly, the formation of Chinatowns is closely related to the history of early Chinese laborers.
They arrived in the United States during the "Gold Rush," establishing Chinatowns as their safe havens to escape racial discrimination.
Most of them did not intend to settle permanently but hoped to return home after earning wealth in America.
Thus, Chinatowns are not only their starting point but also their ultimate destination.
Secondly, the development of China's economy has opened opportunities for Chinese Americans.
With China's rise in globalization, many Chinese individuals have started to actively engage in business exchanges between China and the United States, linking their economic interests closely with the Chinese market.
In this context, patriotic feelings are not only an expression of sentiment but can also bring tangible economic benefits.
Moreover, many Chinese families live between the U.S. and China, forming a unique cultural identity.
In such circumstances, patriotic activities become an important means of strengthening their sense of belonging.
Through common celebratory events, Chinese individuals can establish group identity and deepen their connections with each other.
When you find yourself in a crowd, see the five-star red flag rising, hear patriotic songs, and feel the emotional waves around you, you will naturally integrate into it, experiencing that warmth and emotion.
If you are in the United States, take a stroll through Chinatown to experience the patriotic enthusiasm of the Chinese people; you may gain a deeper understanding of the depth and authenticity of this emotion.
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