On Independence Day in 2020, more than 80 Chinese American families in Holmdel arranged a “Police Appreciation Week” to show gratitude to the police force in their own simple and plain ways.
“As the message from Mayor Greg Buontempo on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/HolmdelRepublicans/posts/3195876020455798) being shared among the local Chinese community, almost simultaneously, folks that often exchange useful information for local family life came up with this police appreciation idea. Because the value of keeping the loved ones and the community safe is universal across all ethnic groups, this idea and spontaneous action came to us naturally,” said Weiping Wang, a longtime Holmdel resident.
“In 2020, we are facing many unprecedented challenges around the nation. Despite this, the police force is carrying out their duty as usual with other frontline workers to keep our community safe and connected. Sir Winston Churchill once wrote “I no longer listen to what people say, I just watch what they do. Behavior never lies.” In our letter to the Holmdel police, we share this quote and stated that “We indeed appreciate that.”
“We come from all walks of life with diverse cultural background. It is hard to imagine that a life fulfilling our ideal for social justice can be secured without the mutual trust between the police force and the community they serve. United, we will overcome any obstacle and move forward together!” – A member of the Holmdel Serenity Group.
Guang Guo Holmdel, NJ
The article originally appeared in the July 30 – August 5, 2020 print edition of The Two River Times.
