As we mark the beginning of the lunar calendar this year, Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC (Advancing Justice | AAJC) wishes a prosperous Lunar New Year to all those who celebrate!
Observed by over a billion people around the world including many from our Asian American and Asian diaspora community —Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese Americans — Lunar New Year is a time for reunions with families and loved ones to celebrate new beginnings.
As we bid farewell to the Year of the roaring tiger, we usher in the Year of the Rabbit, or the Year of the Cat for our Vietnamese communities, and welcome a shift in pace for 2023. Learn more about why there are two zodiac signs this year.
The rabbit embodies longevity, peace, and prosperity, bringing well wishes into the new year. Each zodiac sign is also associated with one of five elements, and this year corresponds to the water rabbit. The cat represents longevity, determination, and good fortune while also placing great importance on peace and quietude. As sensitive creatures, they are considerate of others and kind in nature.
Unlike the tiger, which brought energy and passion, but also impulsiveness and unpredictability in 2022, the water rabbit and the cat both represent empathy, reflection, and peace as many hope for calmness and tranquility in the year ahead.
As we celebrate the Year of the Rabbit and the Year of the Cat, we hope to carry our compassion, attentiveness, and introspection throughout this new year.
In whatever cultural traditions you celebrate, or which animal’s characteristics resonate with you, Advancing Justice | AAJC sends our best wishes to all for a year filled with joy, contentment, and good fortune.
