In 1965, thousands of American Zionist youth walked down Riverside Drive in support of the young State of Israel. This impromptu walk marks the beginning of today's Israel Parade that features marchers, floats, marching bands, among many other spectators and community leaders and dignitaries.
On Sunday, June 2, the 55th annual Celebrate Israel Parade was held, with marchers making their way up 5th Avenue.
The parade had the theme "Only in Israel" and was attended by thousands of people, including Hui Lun, who studies at Nanyang Technological University, participated in the Cross Cultural Internship Program (CCIP, www.fusia.net). She joined her internship host, Senator John Liu, one of the first two Asian American New York State senators.
In 1965, thousands of American Zionist youth walked down Riverside Drive in support of the young State of Israel. This impromptu walk ended up becoming the annual Celebrate Israel Parade, which features marchers, floats, and marching bands. Every year, spectators from around the world join together with community leaders and dignitaries.
Hui Lun said, "I was amazed by the parade. I had no idea it would be so well-attended and such a huge event. I learned a great deal about Israel just by being there."
Cultural events and other opportunities to meet local community members are a big part of what sets CCIP apart from other internship programs. "The march and the parade was an incredible experience for me. Being able to be at the forefront in front of all the action to support State Senator Liu is definitely something that I do not get to experience every day. "
"Being here in New York, participating in one of the biggest parades in the year while interning is something that I did not expect to participate in. The parade was a display of support and pride for the Americans, I am very honored to participate and be a part of this event. This internship experience has been surreal, allowing me to experience and participate in events and activities that I will not be able to back home."
