BY AMANDA MOSES
Konnichiwa!
May is Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Heritage month and to commemorate this occasion as well as Japan Day, New York City held its inaugural Japan Parade in Manhattan on the Upper West Side on May 14th.
Hundreds of New Yorkers were able to experience the first-ever Japan Parade led by Grand Marshall, George Takei, including members of the Starrett Judo Club.
Judokas from Spring Creek Towers (SCT) marched in the 14-block festivity, making sure to represent their club by donning their judo gi and proudly displaying their banner “NYC Area Judo Community.”
Among the numerous floats honoring Japanese culture and traditions, there were individuals dressed as Sailor Guardians, a Hello Kitty mascot, anime characters, and a plethora of musical, dance, and colorful artistic displays.
After the parade attendees were able to enjoy food at a Japan Street Fair on 69th Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue.
Photos by Amanda Moses
