Renton, WA – The City of Renton welcomed the Lunar New Year this week with a celebration at City Hall. The evening began with an invite-only gathering hosted by the Mayor, bringing together community leaders, cultural organizers, and city partners. I attended in my capacity as a city volunteer, invited by the Mayor.
Mayor Armondo Pavone opened the event with remarks recognizing the significance of Lunar New Year for many families across Renton and throughout the region. He spoke to the importance of honoring traditions while continuing to build a city where all residents feel seen and valued.
Minh-Duc Nguyen, Executive Director of Helping Link, followed with a message centered on belonging and community. Helping Link aims to unite and connect the Vietnamese community while empowering members to celebrate their histories, cultures, and traditions. “Home is not just a place, it is the people who live in our hearts,” Nguyen said. She added that celebrations like this “allow us to celebrate freely and educate our neighbors,” underscoring the dual role of the city’s cultural events — both affirming communities and building understanding between them.
The formal remarks were followed by a vibrant Lion Dance performance by the Seattle Shaolin Kungfu Academy. The rhythmic drumming and movement filled the space with energy, drawing smiles and applause from those gathered.
Later in the evening, the celebration continued in the Council Chambers, where the public was invited to observe the City of Renton’s Lunar New Year proclamation. The proclamation was adopted unanimously by the Renton City Council.
Community by representatives from International Community Health Services (ICHS) accepted the proclamation: CEO Kelli Nomura, CIO Nam-Phuong Hong, and ICHS Foundation Board Member and Viet-Wah Vice President Leeching Tran.
Together, the celebration and proclamation reflected Renton’s ongoing effort to recognize and honor the cultural traditions that shape the city. As Lunar New Year begins for many families, the evening served as both a moment of joy and a reminder that community is built not just through policy, but through shared celebration.
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