Livingston Chinese Community Unites At Civic Awareness Event

LIVINGSTON, NJ — An event that aimed to foster civic awareness and engagement within the Chinese community recently took place in Livingston – and there will be more to come, advocates say.

The Livingston Chinese Association hosted a kickoff for a new series of outreach events on April 28, inviting several state, county and local community leaders to speak with attendees.

The workshop – which focused on the crucial roles of poll workers and the broader election process – saw participation from Essex County Clerk Chris Durkin and Livingston Township Clerk Carolyn Mazzucco, who gave presentations about the duties, application process and benefits of poll working.

The event also included a panel discussion featuring New Jersey Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie, Essex County Commissioner Pat Sebold, and Livingston Town Council Member Ketan Bhuptani.

Deputy Mayor Ed Meinhardt briefly addressed the gathering, expressing his appreciation for the community’s involvement. Representatives from several key community organizations – including the Livingston Chinese Association, Livingston Hua Chinese School, Livingston Chinese School, and Living Stone Christian Church – were also present.

Audience members also participated in the dialogue, engaging with panelists during a Q&A session on topics that ranged from the roles and responsibilities of poll workers, to community concerns such as the introduction of pickleball facilities and reminders to secure vehicles.

“Our panelists not only shared their legislative and administrative perspectives but also engaged in a deeply personal segment discussing their paths to public service,” Livingston Chinese Association board member Fang Gong said.

“This dialogue helped to personalize these officials and foster a deeper connection between community members and their elected representatives,” Gong said.

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