Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol hosts first Lunar New Year celebration

The Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol (COPCP) hosted its first annual Lunar New Year celebration at the Deshi Senior Center on Saturday, Jan. 28, showcasing performances and food, celebrating the traditions of the growing Asian community.

The Happiness Chinese Dancers perform at the Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol Lunar New Year celebration at the Deshi Senior Center on Saturday, Jan. 28. (Courtesy of COPCP)

COPCP’s Lunar New Year celebration is a reminder of the importance of sharing and understanding each other’s cultures, according to the organization.

The celebration showcased rich cultural dances and traditions with performances by the Happiness Chinese Dances and the Mayo Kickboxing and MMA Academy. The food was generously donated by Shivrams Bakery, Trini Delite Roti Shop, Island Girls Kitchen and various families who attended.

Community members serve food at the Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol Lunar New Year celebration at the Deshi Senior Center. — (Courtesy of COPCP)

“We are proud to be a part of such a vibrant and diverse community. It is through events like the Lunar New Year Celebration that we are able to showcase the richness of our heritage and bring people together,” COPCP President Iqbal Ali said.

The event was also attended by Raimondo Graziano from Senator Joseph Addabbo’s office; Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar; Councilwoman Joann Ariola; and Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato. The lawmakers provided certificates of recognition for the event contributors.

“The Asian community is one of the fastest growing and vibrant communities in New York, and we must preserve their culture,” Persaud said.

Local elected officials give remarks at the Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol Lunar New Year celebration at the Deshi Center. — (From l. to r.) Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, Senator Roxanne Persaud and Councilwoman Joann Ariola at COPCP’s Lunar New Year celebration at the Deshi Center on Saturday, Jan. 28. (Courtesy of COPCP)

“We are proud to bring people together through events like this, fostering community and promoting understanding among all cultures,” Executive Director of COPCP Mohammad Khan said. “Our goal is to create a better future for our youth, and we believe that starts with appreciating and respecting each other’s cultural traditions.”

COPCP Communications Director Daniel Hill, COPCP President Iqbal Ali and Senator Roxanne Persaud at the COPCP Lunar New Year celebration at the Deshi Senior Center on Saturday, Jan. 28. (Courtesy of COPCP)

Communications Director of COPCP Daniel Hill added, “We are grateful for the support of our community and elected officials. Through events like this, we aim to break down barriers, promote understanding and build a stronger and more inclusive community.’

Community members celebrate Lunar New Year at the Deshi Senior Center in Ozone Park. — (Courtesy of COPCP)

COPCP is committed to promoting cultural understanding and celebrating its diverse community. The organization looks forward to hosting more cultural events throughout the year.