On September 30, Philadelphia’s Office of Immigrant Affairs is set to raise the red flag featuring the star of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in front of City Hall, an action planned to commemorate the anniversary of the establishment of the CCP.
While some may view this as a satirical gesture, it is anything but. Philadelphia has previously flown the CCP flag on two occasions: in 2017 and 2019. The act was considered disgraceful then and is equally objectionable now, signaling a troubling deviation from the city’s foundational principles in favor of a misguided display of tolerance.
Historically, Philadelphia is a city of celebration, home to cherished traditions such as enjoying cheesesteaks and displaying Super Bowl flags. The city also has a rich history of commemorating its foundational documents, notably the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. These symbols of freedom and defiance against authoritarian rule starkly contrast with the values represented by the CCP.
As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary next year, the spirit of 1776 seems threatened by the actions of its leaders. Under President Xi Jinping, Communist China is increasingly viewed as a significant national security risk to America in the 21st century.
The flag-raising event is being organized by the Pennsylvania United Chinese Coalition, part of a network promoting the CCP’s image in the United States, often under the pretext of cultural exchanges. Their website reveals their firm stance against Taiwan’s independence and promotes the idea of peaceful reunification with the mainland.
Although the City of Philadelphia has justified the flag-raising as a gesture of support for its Chinese community, many believe this rationale is misleading. The city already hosts meaningful events for Chinese Americans, such as the Lantern Festival, which highlights traditional culture and raises funds for Philadelphia’s landmarks.
Moreover, many Chinese Americans residing in Philadelphia have fled the oppressive regime of the CCP in search of freedom and opportunity. Therefore, the decision to fly the CCP flag can be seen as an affront to those who have suffered under that regime, serving as a painful reminder of the oppressive government they escaped.
Repeating past actions is not a valid justification for the flag-raising in current times. What may have appeared to be cultural or economic exchange in previous years now carries a much darker connotation, especially considering the geopolitical climate.
Just moments away from City Hall, where the CCP flag will be raised, lies the site where Betsy Ross is said to have sewed the first American flag at the request of George Washington. This was a time when the fledgling nation was establishing its independence from tyranny, which the CCP epitomizes.
As America approaches the 250th anniversary of independence, Philadelphia’s Office of Immigrant Affairs should not bow to Beijing’s request. Instead, they should unite the community in celebration of liberty, exemplified by the American flag.
Rich Zeoli, host of ‘The Rich Zeoli Show,’ argues that Philadelphia’s actions should foster pride rather than submission to international pressures. The anticipated flag-raising of the CCP is seen as a step back in the ongoing fight for freedom and is urged to be reconsidered in favor of a celebration that honors American values.
In conclusion, as the birthplace of American democracy, Philadelphia has a critical role in defining its stance on international relations. Raising the flag of a regime known for human rights abuses does not align with the ideals that the city prides itself on. Instead of embracing symbols of oppression, residents and leadership alike are encouraged to embrace their profound heritage of liberty and resistance against such forces.
image source from：foxnews
