BENSONHURST — A PARTICULARLY BROOKLYN MARRIAGE OF CULTURES was celebrated on Sunday, May 4, blending the Heritage Months for both the Jewish and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. The second annual Shalom Dragon: Bridge of Cultures Family Festival, which saluted the resilience of both cultures, was the fruit of a partnership between City Councilmember Susan Zhuang (D-43), the Marks Jewish Community Center of Bensonhurst, the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, the UJA Federation, and several other community organizations.
The festival, which took place on Sunday, May 4 at 79th St. near Bay Parkway, featured Krav Maga classes, arts and crafts, drumming circles, face painting, and Sen. Chuck Schumer’s own rendition of “God Bless America.” Live performances included Rapper Kosha Dillz, David Pearlman (who was given a City Council Citation from Councilmember Zhuang), Wu Shu Kung Fu, Halo Dance Crew, Yaacov Mayma Jazz Band, among others. Also among those present were Congressman Dan Goldman (D-10), Councilmembers Farah Louis and Julie Menin, representatives from the NYC Council Speakers Office.
“This street fair is not just a celebration of culture and tradition—it’s a powerful expression of solidarity,” said Mark Treyger, CEO of JCRC-NY and a former City Councilmember for District 47.
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