Community Corner
Local Leaders and Community Celebrate Year of the Fire Horse at Historic Empire Garden
From historic Chinatown theaters to Quincy's record-breaking voter turnout, the 2026 CPA Banquet celebrates community empowerment.
By John Russo
BOSTON, MA — On Friday, March 6, 2026, the historic Empire Garden in Boston’s Chinatown transformed into a vibrant hub of culture and community. In partnership with the Chinese Progressive Association (CPA), the venue hosted a banquet of over 500 attendees, marking a night of celebration, empowerment, and reflection.
A Gathering of Luminaries
The event was graced by several prominent city leaders, including Boston City Council President Liz Breadon (District 9) and Councilors-at-Large Ruthzee Louijeune and Julia M. Mejia. Also in attendance were District Councilors Miniard Culpepper (District 7), Sharon Durkan (District 8), and Edward M. Flynn (District 2).
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Mayor Michelle Wu addressed the crowd, presenting certificates and spending the evening engaging with residents. Her presence was a highlight for many, as she took the time for photos and offered words of support for the community’s ongoing efforts.
Pageantry and Tradition
The evening was a feast for the senses. Guests were treated to colorful pageantry and choreographed performances, including a traditional Lion Dance by the Wah Lum Kung Fu and Tai Chi Academy. Between speakers, CPA members took to the stage to perform songs that filled the massive hall.
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The meal itself was a "mega banquet" in every sense. Across 53 tables, platters of traditional delicacies were served continuously, featuring lobster with ginger and scallions, honey walnut shrimp, fried whole sole, and crispy whole chicken.
A Legacy of Empowerment
The CPA remains dedicated to providing support, equality, and empowerment to Chinese residents in Boston and surrounding areas, including Quincy. This spirit of civic engagement was mirrored by Quincy Votes!, a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 2022 that has significantly shifted the local voting landscape.
The organization’s "boots on the ground" approach proved its impact in 2025, with 15,852 voters turning out in Quincy. Among the success stories highlighted was Tom Leung, a first-time candidate who secured a seat on the Quincy School Committee with an impressive 8,086 votes.
Addressing the crowd, Leung wished everyone a Happy New Year of the Fire Horse and praised the CPA, stating, "I love the work that they do; this is an organization that is truly special to me."
Rich History at Washington Street
The venue, Empire Garden, carries its own storied past. Built in 1903 as a theater, it later became the Pagoda Cinema, a Chinese-speaking movie house that served the neighborhood until 1995. Purchased and transformed by David Wong, the building now stands as one of the few locations capable of accommodating such massive community gatherings.
Looking Forward
As the evening drew to a close, CPA President Emeritus Suzanne Lee spoke eloquently to the room, noting that the success of the night sets the stage for an even larger event next year. The celebration concluded with a sense of harmony, focused on a positive future for the region's Chinese American community.
