Culture and Social Norms
Hanbok Day Comes to the Bay Area: Celebrating Korean Culture in California
Hanbok Day Recognition Bill: What You Need to Know!
Assembly Member Sharon Quirk-Silva [D] has boldly and passionately introduced California Assembly Concurrent Resolution 110, also known as ACR110, to honor Hanbok's rich and vibrant cultural significance. She intends to promote cultural diversity and understanding throughout California and proposed that October 21, 2023, be recognized annually as Hanbok Day. This groundbreaking initiative seeks to elevate the importance of Hanbok and its pivotal role in shaping California’s diverse cultural landscape.
Hanbok has a rich history and cultural importance. This day would offer a unique opportunity to educate locals on its significance and recognize the valuable contributions of Korean Americans to the state. The possible passing of ACR110 would represent a crucial step forward in promoting multiculturalism in California.
Given its recent introduction, it’s difficult to determine the current status of ACR110. Despite this, it’s worth mentioning that comparable bills have previously been introduced to acknowledge cultural events and holidays.
One such bill is ACR2, which Quirk-Silva initiated to celebrate Korean American Day, commemorated annually on January 13. In addition, Taekwondo Day was established with the help of Assembly Concurrent Resolution 1, co-sponsored by Quirk-Silva and Steven Choi. These bills demonstrate a dedication to fostering cultural awareness and honoring the contributions of diverse communities in California.
The hanbok is a significant part of Korean culture, serving as traditional attire for the Korean people. While South Koreans typically refer to it as hanbok, North Koreans use the term “chosŏn-ot.” Even Koreans residing in China often wear this clothing to connect with their roots.
In 1996, the South Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism instituted “Hanbok Day” to promote the hanbok and encourage its citizens to embrace and wear it.
Tucked away amidst the beautiful Bay Area is a vibrant population of Korean Americans, whose fate may be intertwined with the controversial ACR110. It’s worth noting that just a few months ago, in November 2020, a similar measure called Proposition 16 was put on the ballot to decide whether affirmative action programs should be reinstated in California. Surprisingly, the bill was triumphing in counties like the ever-liberal San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles County. Still, it was inevitably suffering a disastrous loss in Southern California’s other massive counties.
What if I told you there was a proposed bill that could do more than acknowledge Korean Americans’ incredible impact on society?
ACR110 could foster a deep appreciation for cultural differences in the Bay Area and all of California. Imagine the possibilities of tourism growth and business opportunities with the celebration of Hanbok Day!
The Possible Impact of ACR110 on Bay Area Residents
If passed, ACR110 could significantly impact the Bay area community, particularly in terms of increased awareness and appreciation of Korean culture. The proclamation of Hanbok Day on October 21st each year would provide a platform for showcasing traditional Korean clothing and customs and promoting cultural exchange and understanding. This could contribute to a more diverse and inclusive community in the Bay area as residents learn about and celebrate the cultural heritage of their Korean neighbors.
The establishment of Hanbok Day could also lead to a boost in the local economy through Hanbok-related events and activities. As seen in other cultural celebrations and festivals, such as Lunar New Year and Dia de los Muertos, these events can draw large crowds and generate revenue for local businesses and vendors. Additionally, promoting Hanbok as a traditional Korean garment could increase demand for Hanbok rentals and sales, creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Finally, the passage of ACR110 could promote diversity and inclusivity in the Bay area community. As California continues to grapple with issues of systemic racism and inequality, initiatives that celebrate and uplift underrepresented communities can help to bridge divides and promote understanding. By recognizing and honoring the cultural contributions of Korean Americans, ACR110 could contribute to a more equitable and harmonious society in the Bay area and beyond.
In conclusion, the introduction of ACR110 and the establishment of Hanbok Day in the San Francisco Bay area have the potential to bring about significant positive impacts. If passed, ACR110 could increase awareness and appreciation of Korean culture, boost the local economy through Hanbok-related events and activities, and promote diversity and inclusivity in the Bay area community. These outcomes would benefit Korean Americans and enrich the cultural fabric of the Bay area as a whole. Lawmakers and community members must continue supporting initiatives like ACR110 that celebrate and promote cultural diversity.
References
- Bill Text: CA ACR110 | 2023–2024 | Regular Session (n.d.), from www.legiscan.com/CA/text/ACR110/2023
- Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva Introduces Resolution to (n.d.), from a67 www.asmdc.org
- California State Legislature 2021–2022 Regular Sessions (n.d.), from www.overseas.mofa.go.kr
- California voters reject affirmative action ballot measure (n.d.), from www.spokesman.com
- COVID hit tourism 11 times harder than 9/11. Here’s how (n.d.), from www.sfchronicle.com
- 10 California State Bills That Never Saw the Light of Day (n.d.), from www.sfstandard.com
- 7Prop. 16 threatens California’s commitment to equality (n.d.), from www.ocregister.com
Originally published at https://www.newsbreak.com.
