On June 3, CCIP (www.fusia.net) exchange visitors joined the AmericaChina Public Affairs Institute (ACPAI) to march in the Celebrate Israel Parade 2018 for the first time.

This year’s parade theme was “70 and Sababa!” (70 & Awesome!) Over 40,000 marchers from many organizations across the city celebrated the 70th anniversary of the state of Israel.

In just 70 years, Israel has prospered beyond belief and expectation, developing a thriving economy and a vibrant tech sector. In 2011, the name of the Parade was changed to Celebrate Israel to focus on celebrating the vibrant and diverse nation and its close ties to the US.

At 11:30 am sharp, the students marched along with ACPAI’s team in the parade starting at the Manhattan’s Fifth Ave from 57th to 74th Street.

Shannon Tsui, a student from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Lily Chan, studying at the Education University of Hong Kong, jointly coordinated this activity. They both intern at ACPAI this summer.

Shannon said, “It is a beautiful moment to see how people from different backgrounds support a US ally. It is a great show of solidarity and community."

"It is moving to march in a parade with Israelis and their American friends to celebrate Israel’s 70th anniversary, “ added Lily.