In Bensonhurst, Cantonese hymns filled Seth Low Park, as dozens gathered to remember the victims of Hong Kong’s devastating high-rise fire in Bensonhurst on Wednesday.
Larry He says the day carries deep cultural meaning.
What You Need To Know
Dozens gathered to remember the victims of Hong Kong’s devastating high-rise fire in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, on Wednesday
Officials in Hong Kong say almost 160 people were killed in the blaze, with the youngest at just 1-year-old
The city is home to more than 34,000 Hong Kong-born residents
“Today is the seventh day of the Hong Kong fire tragedy, which in Asian culture, the seventh day is the day of mourning,” He said.
In many Asian traditions, the seventh day is believed to be when the spirits of the dead return home, a final moment for families and communities to grieve together.
“This is particularly tough for us to digest what happened,” He said.
The city is home to more than 34,000 Hong Kong-born residents. The pain in Brooklyn feels close, even from nearly 8,000 miles away.
“When they see that video, seven buildings burned down. It feels like [they’ll] never be able to recover,” Councilmember Susan Zhuang said.
Officials in Hong Kong say almost 160 people were killed in the blaze, with the youngest at just 1-year-old.
Investigators have arrested more than a dozen people, including contractors accused of disabling fire alarms during renovations on the building.
“It’s very important that we come together and show we are united,” Queens resident Bernard Chow said.
Crews are continuing to look for the people still missing as investigators continue to search for answers.